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The Stoneridge Pack #3
Blood Feud
Sometimes the blood that bonds us together is what causes the greatest of rifts.
The pack is balancing on an edge, trying to hold together after the last fight tried to tear them apart. Calli throws herself into trying to learn as much magic as she can, and her mates watch on helplessly as her obsession starts to take over. But old enemies are rising, and a surprising party reaches out, requesting aid. Now, facing everything she's lost, Calli needs to make a decision. Can she rise above the hate, the loss, the heartbreaking reality of what's happened and help those who need it? Not only will it shine a light on who she truly is as a person, but it will shake the very foundation of what it means to be a shifter.
Reader warning: this book contains explicit scenes and briefly deals with themes that some readers may find triggering.
This is a reverse harem book with adult content and is intended for 18+ readers only.
The pack is balancing on an edge, trying to hold together after the last fight tried to tear them apart. Calli throws herself into trying to learn as much magic as she can, and her mates watch on helplessly as her obsession starts to take over. But old enemies are rising, and a surprising party reaches out, requesting aid. Now, facing everything she's lost, Calli needs to make a decision. Can she rise above the hate, the loss, the heartbreaking reality of what's happened and help those who need it? Not only will it shine a light on who she truly is as a person, but it will shake the very foundation of what it means to be a shifter.
Reader warning: this book contains explicit scenes and briefly deals with themes that some readers may find triggering.
This is a reverse harem book with adult content and is intended for 18+ readers only.
495 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 4, 2021
252 people are currently reading
281 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Cooke
16 books404 followersI’m a British author who writes paranormal reverse harem romance books.
I couldn’t survive with tea and potentially swear far too much for any kind of polite society. So I spend most of my days shut inside the writing cave and talking to all the voices in my head. Being a writer has given me the ideal excuse to fully embrace the crazy side of my personality, and I can’t wait to share it with you.
I have an amazing reader group on Facebook, which I would LOVE you to join. Be the first to find out all the news on my upcoming projects and chat with me daily.
Join here >> https://www.facebook.com/groups/CJCoo...
Sign up to my newsletter here if you prefer to stay up to date by email >>
https://www.subscribepage.com/authorc...
If you need any more information, check out my website here >>
https://www.authorcjcooke.com
I couldn’t survive with tea and potentially swear far too much for any kind of polite society. So I spend most of my days shut inside the writing cave and talking to all the voices in my head. Being a writer has given me the ideal excuse to fully embrace the crazy side of my personality, and I can’t wait to share it with you.
I have an amazing reader group on Facebook, which I would LOVE you to join. Be the first to find out all the news on my upcoming projects and chat with me daily.
Join here >> https://www.facebook.com/groups/CJCoo...
Sign up to my newsletter here if you prefer to stay up to date by email >>
https://www.subscribepage.com/authorc...
If you need any more information, check out my website here >>
https://www.authorcjcooke.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
September 28, 2024
✅ Reverse-Harem (and expansion of the harem, again)
✅ Shifters, witches, and vampires
✅ Found family vibe
✅ Multiple POVs (although they were not always pertinent)
✅🆗 Characters (Jacob, Abby, and Coby are the cutest ❤️)
✅🆗 Romance and smut
✅🆗 World-building
✅🆗 Plot
🆗❌ Pace (except the last 20%)
🆗❌ Repetitive scenes and discussions
2.5 or 3 stars
Sadly, this one was not as interesting as the first two books. I had to force myself to push through it. It was not bad, but it was not very good either. Maybe I was not in the right mindset to read it either, because I really struggled to finish it.
This book dragged on. The pacing was slow for most of it and some discussions about mundane things or simple decisions could have been cut out of the book. For a 495 pages book, not much happened until the last 30%.
Even the fighting scenes were over quickly (except for the last 10%) and were pretty much straightforward. There was not much tension or life-or-death situations (again, except for the last 10%). Every obstacle or threat was being dealt with almost too easily, and that combined with the useless parts about mundane decisions made the book long, and honestly, I skimmed it a little bit between 40% and 80%.
Tanner and the pups are perfection. They bring joy to the pack, and their adorableness made me smile so many times! It’s a good thing they were there because things would have been boring without them.
I was happy when Davion made an apparition at the beginning of the book, and I was hoping for the shifter-vampire alliance to solidify, but he then just disappeared for most of the book. He was back for the second half thankfully, and I was happy, but I would still have liked more interactions between him and the pack outside of him just joining them when it’s time to fight and kill people. But at least he was more present than in the previous books, and his interactions with the pups were funny and cute.
Calli gains another mate in this book, a mage this time. I do not mind RH series with many partners, but I did not really feel the need to add this new mate, especially considering how little time Calli got with her other mates. I loved the fact that there was no insta-love between her and Grey, River, and Tanner in the first book, but in this one there is something that looks a lot like insta-love and insta-lust due to the mating bond, which I can understand, but I don’t appreciate it as much as a well-done slow (or medium-slow) burn romance.
There is smut, but it was almost anticlimactic sometimes…? They would go from talking to smut in 1 page, and then back to normal as if nothing happened. I swear one time they went from talking about bidding a deceased ally a final goodbye, to being horny and naked in the span of 1 page! ! would have preferred more sexual tension and build-up between Calli and her mates instead of a having a short sexy scenes every once in a while. It felt as if the smutty moments were just thrown here and there to keep the readers happy, but they felt completely disconnected from the rest of the plot.
Aidan and Calli getting are getting closer in the first half of the book, and they have a cute bond. However, in the light of the revelation about their special connection, I find that they took it in stride quite quickly and easily. A little too easily maybe? They just said, “oh well, here’s a shocking piece of information, let’s just tell everyone and continue as if nothing changed”. I don’t want to say more because I don’t want to spoil anyone, but while I liked their stronger bond in this book, I did not particularly enjoy the way it was presented and developed.
The book did redeem itself with the last 15%, hence the 3-stars rating instead of 2.5 stars. Overall it was a decent book, and I am tempted to read the 4th book because of the way this one ended, but at the same time, I am not sure that I am involved enough in the plot anymore to read the fourth book when it will be released. We’ll see I guess…
1. Wolf Hunts ⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. Shadow Wars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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✅ Shifters, witches, and vampires
✅ Found family vibe
✅ Multiple POVs (although they were not always pertinent)
✅🆗 Characters (Jacob, Abby, and Coby are the cutest ❤️)
✅🆗 Romance and smut
✅🆗 World-building
✅🆗 Plot
🆗❌ Pace (except the last 20%)
🆗❌ Repetitive scenes and discussions
2.5 or 3 stars
"When you break it down, we have two tasks. One, wake Maverick up because he’s just being lazy now, and the dude needs to start pulling his weight. Two, kill the witch bitch.”
Sadly, this one was not as interesting as the first two books. I had to force myself to push through it. It was not bad, but it was not very good either. Maybe I was not in the right mindset to read it either, because I really struggled to finish it.
This book dragged on. The pacing was slow for most of it and some discussions about mundane things or simple decisions could have been cut out of the book. For a 495 pages book, not much happened until the last 30%.
Even the fighting scenes were over quickly (except for the last 10%) and were pretty much straightforward. There was not much tension or life-or-death situations (again, except for the last 10%). Every obstacle or threat was being dealt with almost too easily, and that combined with the useless parts about mundane decisions made the book long, and honestly, I skimmed it a little bit between 40% and 80%.
I grinned at her because if there was one thing in my life that made me deliriously happy, which wasn’t my mate, it was the gaggle of pups we now had terrorising the place.
It was like Tanner had found his very own tribe of mischief-makers and a small shiver of fear went down my spine at the thought. They nearly outnumbered us!
Tanner and the pups are perfection. They bring joy to the pack, and their adorableness made me smile so many times! It’s a good thing they were there because things would have been boring without them.
It was strange watching him open up the glass doors and walk into the house like he owned the place. Not as strange as it was to see Davion sitting at the kitchen table, Abby perched on his knee and all three kids eating bowls of ice cream.
“You know they’re in trouble, right?” I scoffed at the sight of the big bad vampire clan leader cuddling with my little cherry bomb. Damn, that kid had skills.
Davion looked over his shoulder at me with the most relaxed look on his face I’d ever seen, “You see, I thought that initially, but then this small one gave me a look, and I suddenly couldn’t remember why I was angry.” He scowled down at Abby playfully, and she tipped her head back, hitting me with the biggest puppy dog eyes I’d ever seen. “Yes, that one right there,” Davion said, looking slightly alarmed at the power Abby held over, apparently, everyone.
Davion sat looking at the crying little girl in his lap, almost like she was a bomb about to go off before he awkwardly wrapped his arms around her. As soon as she snuggled into him, shaking from the force of her tears, he relaxed and held her tightly.
I was happy when Davion made an apparition at the beginning of the book, and I was hoping for the shifter-vampire alliance to solidify, but he then just disappeared for most of the book. He was back for the second half thankfully, and I was happy, but I would still have liked more interactions between him and the pack outside of him just joining them when it’s time to fight and kill people. But at least he was more present than in the previous books, and his interactions with the pups were funny and cute.
As soon as I’d felt the urge to run my fingers through his wavy blonde hair, I’d suspected it. But when his shocked brown eyes locked with mine, I’d been certain. What the actual fuck? Mate number five!
Calli gains another mate in this book, a mage this time. I do not mind RH series with many partners, but I did not really feel the need to add this new mate, especially considering how little time Calli got with her other mates. I loved the fact that there was no insta-love between her and Grey, River, and Tanner in the first book, but in this one there is something that looks a lot like insta-love and insta-lust due to the mating bond, which I can understand, but I don’t appreciate it as much as a well-done slow (or medium-slow) burn romance.
There is smut, but it was almost anticlimactic sometimes…? They would go from talking to smut in 1 page, and then back to normal as if nothing happened. I swear one time they went from talking about bidding a deceased ally a final goodbye, to being horny and naked in the span of 1 page! ! would have preferred more sexual tension and build-up between Calli and her mates instead of a having a short sexy scenes every once in a while. It felt as if the smutty moments were just thrown here and there to keep the readers happy, but they felt completely disconnected from the rest of the plot.
“Oh, thank fuck!” Aidan sighed, slumping back in his seat. “You have no idea how much of a relief this is. I thought my wolf was losing it because he was obsessing over you. I was convinced Grey was going to kill me for taking too much of an interest in his mate.”
Aidan and Calli getting are getting closer in the first half of the book, and they have a cute bond. However, in the light of the revelation about their special connection, I find that they took it in stride quite quickly and easily. A little too easily maybe? They just said, “oh well, here’s a shocking piece of information, let’s just tell everyone and continue as if nothing changed”. I don’t want to say more because I don’t want to spoil anyone, but while I liked their stronger bond in this book, I did not particularly enjoy the way it was presented and developed.
The book did redeem itself with the last 15%, hence the 3-stars rating instead of 2.5 stars. Overall it was a decent book, and I am tempted to read the 4th book because of the way this one ended, but at the same time, I am not sure that I am involved enough in the plot anymore to read the fourth book when it will be released. We’ll see I guess…
1. Wolf Hunts ⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. Shadow Wars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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November 4, 2021
OMGeeeeee!!!!! Where do I begin! Calli oh my sweet sweet woman you are a boss a$$ b!tch and you showed up and showed out and I couldn’t be more proud! Let me just say we get some answers that we have been dying for and we still have some unanswered but that keeps you completely captivated in the story. This pack has been through he!! and back and it’s not over yet. I have a feeling the fight of their life is headed their way. Cherry Bomb shines bright and I swear that little girl has no fear especially with the boys by her side. I swear I want to say so much but there is no way to do that without spoilers and that is not happening… just know you get all the thangs. Drama, action, blood, spice heat and sexy times and some super sweet moment that will have you completely swooning. Let’s not forget about the epic plot twists you never see coming that leave you with your jaw on the floor! Truly my favorite shifter series ever.
November 4, 2021
I was so ready for this book after the ending of Shadow Wars. This book is amazing and I loved every moment of it. There are so many truth bombs dropped that keep you on your toes. I can't even say much more because I don't want to ruin it or spoil anything, but it is such a great book, you definitely need to read it. It's steamy, has all the emotional feels that hit you in the heart, and the action is top-notch!
October 26, 2021
Blood Feud by CJ Cooke is a paranormal reverse harem romance. This is the third book in The Stoneridge Pack series.
The book does come with a warning: "this book contains explicit scenes and briefly deals with themes that some readers may find triggering. This is a reverse harem book with adult content and is intended for 18+ readers only."
I absolutely love Catherine's books! I was hooked from the very beginning and couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. I really enjoyed getting Calli, Tanner, River, Grey, Lachlan, Maverick, and The Spy's points of view throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.
The book ends on a cliffhanger that left me begging for more. I can't wait for the next book in the series Hidden Moon to be released in early 2022.
I would highly recommend this book if you love paranormal romances, reverse harem romances, or romantic suspense.
The book does come with a warning: "this book contains explicit scenes and briefly deals with themes that some readers may find triggering. This is a reverse harem book with adult content and is intended for 18+ readers only."
I absolutely love Catherine's books! I was hooked from the very beginning and couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. I really enjoyed getting Calli, Tanner, River, Grey, Lachlan, Maverick, and The Spy's points of view throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.
The book ends on a cliffhanger that left me begging for more. I can't wait for the next book in the series Hidden Moon to be released in early 2022.
I would highly recommend this book if you love paranormal romances, reverse harem romances, or romantic suspense.
November 8, 2021
CJ Cooke wrote an emotionally charged PNR that was addictive and moving.
The way Shadow Wars ended, I was desperate for the next book! Blood Feud did not disappoint. I found it to be a bit darker out of the series. I felt the transition from the cliffhanger from the previous book to Blood Feud was smooth. The book to me was thorough. I didn’t feel lost, the author had a great way of incorporating conversations, characters, and reminding us what was going on. Without being lengthy or too much. More than that the author took Blood Feud and upped the action, and the final chapters and what they discovered, definitely creeped me out. (It gave me goosebumps) and it made me want to cry.
Calli, there is nothing I don’t love about her. I love her persistence. That she misses her parents so much, that she is angry! I love an angry woman. I was shocked at whatever information Sean is keeping away from her! It also, adds to the mystery. Calli is a badass. She is leading the pack and they willingly follow, they will fight with her, for her, and if they die for her, so be it. As she gains more magic, obviously I suspect she is more important than anyone realizes, especially due to how many mates she has.
River has an amazing moment in this book, it was a feeling I had suspected for him and what he shares with his brother, Grey it was so needed! Tanner, he is lovable, he is so easy and his love is fierce over the pups and cherry bomb.
Grey. OOF He is my man, I was so sexually frustrated over him. I just can’t help but love MY alpha wolf. His guilt, pain, love, and passion. 🥵
We have the witch queen, Councilman Stone, Sean’s secrets, magic, and more that I won’t say ;)
Shoutout to MY vampire Davion. (🤞🏻he needs a book) The author wrote a tragic and beautiful scene he was in. And you really start to see him differently.
I loved that this book was edgier! Chapters 13-16 were amazing, and those final chapters intense. I can’t wait for the next book.
October 29, 2021
Wow. That was a fantastic, shocking, emotional ending.
I was so anxious to see what happened after the ending of Shadow Wars, and now I’m just as desperate, if not more, for the next book.
Calli and the pack have been broken and shell shocked after the battle with the Shadow Demons. It’s taken a while, but they are starting to heal and recover from the ordeal. Everything is evolving. Calli’s magic, the pack bond, new friends, new hurdles, and the fight against the “witch queen” is coming. And all the while, the evil alpha Stone is plotting some seriously horrendous sh- - stuff.
There were a few times when I felt that one or two relationships needed a bit more to show them developing, but overall I really enjoyed the character growth. The whole pack as a family is gorgeous.
And the ending, well I’ll just say that it was not at all what I was expecting. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
I was so anxious to see what happened after the ending of Shadow Wars, and now I’m just as desperate, if not more, for the next book.
Calli and the pack have been broken and shell shocked after the battle with the Shadow Demons. It’s taken a while, but they are starting to heal and recover from the ordeal. Everything is evolving. Calli’s magic, the pack bond, new friends, new hurdles, and the fight against the “witch queen” is coming. And all the while, the evil alpha Stone is plotting some seriously horrendous sh- - stuff.
There were a few times when I felt that one or two relationships needed a bit more to show them developing, but overall I really enjoyed the character growth. The whole pack as a family is gorgeous.
And the ending, well I’ll just say that it was not at all what I was expecting. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
November 6, 2021
I've been eagerly awaiting the third installment in this series and it was amazing . We pick up a few minutes after the ending of book 2. Don't want to spoil that if you haven't read. We see the pack continue to grow, additions of a new mate, return of a character, fire s#x scenes and epic fights. This is literally everything you can want in a book and a amazing cliffhanger to boot. Book 4 isn't here soon enough.
January 4, 2023
Finally some answers!
Spice: 3/5
FINALLY! We are starting to see some of our questions answered and a couple of issues begin getting solved. We were left on another absolute cliffhanger from HE** but it’s got me ready to drop everything and start book 4 this very second. This series has so many mysteries that are starting to tie together. CJ Cooke has taken the time to really plan out issues and anticipate how to tie them together. I am thrilled with how this story is shaping up!
Spice: 3/5
FINALLY! We are starting to see some of our questions answered and a couple of issues begin getting solved. We were left on another absolute cliffhanger from HE** but it’s got me ready to drop everything and start book 4 this very second. This series has so many mysteries that are starting to tie together. CJ Cooke has taken the time to really plan out issues and anticipate how to tie them together. I am thrilled with how this story is shaping up!
November 1, 2021
Holy shorts! CJ more than deliveries in this book. Picking up 3 months after where 2 left off. There was so much action and twists I didn't know what was going to happen next. Cali sure has her hands full in this one and it's not because of her 5 mates lol! Yep she adds another one in this book. Even though they keep her busy. Bringing Maverick back, Stones obsession with her, Seans secrets, her mom's book, her growing magic... the list goes on! However, they do it as a pack. This book leaves unfinished whats and whose with the cliffhanger ending, but not a what the ... type lol
November 3, 2021
Blood Feud was Phenomenal!
So much happened in this book. Calli has really grown since we first met her and it is great to see her with her new pack. The pack itself is growing and so is the problems that they all are facing.
This book is action packed, full of suspense and so good! We do gain some answers but are left with more questions. This really is one of my favorite shifter series.
So much happened in this book. Calli has really grown since we first met her and it is great to see her with her new pack. The pack itself is growing and so is the problems that they all are facing.
This book is action packed, full of suspense and so good! We do gain some answers but are left with more questions. This really is one of my favorite shifter series.
October 6, 2023
Another great book to the series! I am loving this series so much more than I thought I would so I highly recommend these books. Not really going to go much into this book so it doesn't give anything away from the previous books but please go read this!!!
November 5, 2021
This series is soul food, and this installment filled me up. ♥️
This is such a rich cast of characters. The kids are amazing and my heart just felt lighter every time they were on the page. The magic is so beautifully described that I can see and feel it. I’m going to be gushing about this one for a while. Can’t wait for book four!
This is such a rich cast of characters. The kids are amazing and my heart just felt lighter every time they were on the page. The magic is so beautifully described that I can see and feel it. I’m going to be gushing about this one for a while. Can’t wait for book four!
November 6, 2021
I love, love, love Calli. She never gives up no matter how hard everything is. This book was amazing and I can’t wait for the last book. This is my go to PNR series when I need a re-read. It’s amazing 😍
November 8, 2021
A really marvelous story!! I need book 4 now!
November 9, 2021
Great story!
Every book had gotten better and better! The story line has definitely developed along the way and threw me for a few loops! Can't wait for the next one!
Every book had gotten better and better! The story line has definitely developed along the way and threw me for a few loops! Can't wait for the next one!
November 1, 2021
Just WOW!
It blows my mind how Cali gets through the day, She is incredibly strong and dedicated to helping people that do not always deserve it. I am happy she has surrounded herself with her men and new friends that are more deserving. I can not wait for the nest book in the series to release!
It blows my mind how Cali gets through the day, She is incredibly strong and dedicated to helping people that do not always deserve it. I am happy she has surrounded herself with her men and new friends that are more deserving. I can not wait for the nest book in the series to release!
November 2, 2021
This book is right on par with the rest of the series. Great storyline with spicy scenes and more character development. I’m really enjoying Cali as a FMC. That cliffhanger though!
December 18, 2021
This book is phenomenal!
The characters continue to grow and this books shows it from beginning to end. They grow as a pack and more importantly as a family. The obstacles and challenges they face kept me at the edge of my seat.
The characters continue to grow and this books shows it from beginning to end. They grow as a pack and more importantly as a family. The obstacles and challenges they face kept me at the edge of my seat.
November 15, 2021
I was so freaking excited and anxious for this book since book 2's ending and it did not disappoint at all. The ending if book 2 just broke my heart and this one was even more emotional. I absolutely freaking love Callie so much and the fact that she just does not give up on any one she considers family or friends. This is one of my absolute favorite series for me! Can not wait for the next book at all!
October 27, 2021
I was fortunate enough to get to read this book before it comes out.....and it was amazing ! Just when you think things are going to slow down BAM she hits you with more action and intrigue. This was a book that pulled me in and kept me immersed in the story until it unfortunately ended. The characters are growing before our eyes and I can't wait for the next book. Fantastic job. Please keep writing.
November 15, 2021
Great Continuation
This was a great continuation of the last book of this series. Interesting storyline and wonderful characters will keep you coming back for more. I will admit that ending has my mind in a spiral, so needless to say, I need to know what happens next! I would definitely recommend.
This was a great continuation of the last book of this series. Interesting storyline and wonderful characters will keep you coming back for more. I will admit that ending has my mind in a spiral, so needless to say, I need to know what happens next! I would definitely recommend.
October 27, 2021
This is the third book and it did not disappoint. I love the way this book has the chapters from different characters point of views. The story had me going through so many emotions. I just love the dynamic between all the characters. The way the story just flows and draws you in is perfect. I didn’t want this to end and I can’t wait for the next one!!!
October 27, 2021
Another 5 star read by CJ and I can't wait for the next book.
With Cali broken hearted and the pack just broken how will they come back from the ultimate tragedy.
Cali and her men are back with another curve ball thrown their way, another fight on the horizon and love people only dream of.
With Cali broken hearted and the pack just broken how will they come back from the ultimate tragedy.
Cali and her men are back with another curve ball thrown their way, another fight on the horizon and love people only dream of.
November 12, 2021
Oh dear more trouble for the pack
Excellent series deserved five stars would highly recommend this series well written good plot and can't wait for the next one
Excellent series deserved five stars would highly recommend this series well written good plot and can't wait for the next one
November 10, 2021
love Cali so much! ... cannot wait for the next book!
October 22, 2021
CJ Cooke is without doubt a diabolical genius when it comes to crafting a story that grips you from the get go. She hooks you in, and then the next thing you know you are trapped in her book on a roller coaster full of emotions and feels! I am not kidding, it was like she kidnapped me and let me go after she was finished telling her story.
I love the multi POV and how it's used to drive the story along, while also letting you getting to know the characters better.
The humour is what really shone, the moments it's used just made me appreciate the ability of the author. I couldn't explain to my kids why I was laughing but I even snorted, it was that good.
What I appreciate is the way it deals with grief. I love the deft touch the author has with explaining what her characters go through.
The sex scenes were beautifully written and I loved the authentic flow for the different characters.
What really worked for me was the plot twists. I didn't see them coming and I was shocked by a few of them.
If I could I'd give this ten stars I would
I love the multi POV and how it's used to drive the story along, while also letting you getting to know the characters better.
The humour is what really shone, the moments it's used just made me appreciate the ability of the author. I couldn't explain to my kids why I was laughing but I even snorted, it was that good.
What I appreciate is the way it deals with grief. I love the deft touch the author has with explaining what her characters go through.
The sex scenes were beautifully written and I loved the authentic flow for the different characters.
What really worked for me was the plot twists. I didn't see them coming and I was shocked by a few of them.
If I could I'd give this ten stars I would
December 2, 2021
Very enjoyable
I really enjoyed this book and loved the characters. Now that Neressa is dead I can't wait to see what will happen next for them and who the spy was and if he survived.
I really enjoyed this book and loved the characters. Now that Neressa is dead I can't wait to see what will happen next for them and who the spy was and if he survived.
October 26, 2021
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. A positive review is not required
This review can also be found in Currant7 Recommends.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Disclosure: Aside from being a reverse harem book, there are a few scenes that depict physical, emotional, and psychological abuse that may trigger some readers. Take this as your warning. In my case, it triggered me to be frustrated but more towards the ones who inflicted it, and I felt for the characters involved.
Blood Feud is the third installment in the Stoneridge Pack series. Reading Books 1 and 2 is advisable before getting lost in the plot, characters, and concepts. This book starts directly where Book 2 ended, so it would be a disservice to the reader or the whole story if readers start in the middle.
First off, this author has a way of hooking me until the end! The writing is from a multi-POV - Calli, her pack members, and a few new critical characters. Even with the many voices in the book, the writing is still easy to follow and takes off from the last character's POV. After suffering a significant loss at the end of Book 2, Calli and the pack have to deal with a few tragedies they still need to face/resolve and protect from their new/old enemies. The Stoneridge pack has to work with other paranormal beings to figure out the power shifts behind the scenes and protect themselves from others wanting their magic. I am excited to explore further. It again is a lengthy read, but very worth it!
Secondly, the new additions of Abby, Cody, and others are a welcomed, healing balm that also provided the balance of comic relief badly needed by the pack. There was so much suspense and tension from the last book. BUT the best part is when Calli realizes that there are more familial relations around her than first realized. This book reminds me of the fantastic family reunions but under dire situations. Newly discovered family links reunited (though limited in scope and time), Calli has to decide what will be best for the future while holding on to the past. It all came slowly but interesting as pieces come together like a pull between characters as early as Book 1, so it's not just an after-thought.
Expect the intimate scenes to be H-O-T with more connections and "bonds" made as Calli discovers more about her powers, heritage, and the pack she calls family. More problems arise as forces outside the pack and other "groups" discover Calli and her pack.
Thirdly, the big scenes close to the end of the book were a non-stop, mesmerizing, and heart-stopping one!!! It is an underdog group versus a combined clan of werewolves and witches! It all felt like there was no hope because when they faced the "final enemy," their Plan A did not work, and with no Plan B. BUT - no one accounted how far Calli and "the pack" have come as a group and their powers. Some scenes near the end may make one's stomach churn - very gruesome and horrific revelations that might not be for the faint-hearted. I was stunned at the atrocities these "people" did and how far they would go to acquire "immense power."
Overall, Blood Feud exceeded my expectations! I love the character development done through their respective powers' growth. It is humbling to realize that this power they wield turns out for the betterment of their society, BUT keeping it from the rest of the world, made me so mad at how manipulative a lot of people were to "contain" power within themselves. I am still on my wit's end, trying NOT to GO CRAZY on the uncertainty looming for the pack (and new characters). There were questions answered but more seemed to come out on my end, especially with the epilogue! Too many unknowns popped up to no end! I cannot wait to get the final book to find out!
This review can also be found in Currant7 Recommends.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Disclosure: Aside from being a reverse harem book, there are a few scenes that depict physical, emotional, and psychological abuse that may trigger some readers. Take this as your warning. In my case, it triggered me to be frustrated but more towards the ones who inflicted it, and I felt for the characters involved.
Blood Feud is the third installment in the Stoneridge Pack series. Reading Books 1 and 2 is advisable before getting lost in the plot, characters, and concepts. This book starts directly where Book 2 ended, so it would be a disservice to the reader or the whole story if readers start in the middle.
First off, this author has a way of hooking me until the end! The writing is from a multi-POV - Calli, her pack members, and a few new critical characters. Even with the many voices in the book, the writing is still easy to follow and takes off from the last character's POV. After suffering a significant loss at the end of Book 2, Calli and the pack have to deal with a few tragedies they still need to face/resolve and protect from their new/old enemies. The Stoneridge pack has to work with other paranormal beings to figure out the power shifts behind the scenes and protect themselves from others wanting their magic. I am excited to explore further. It again is a lengthy read, but very worth it!
Secondly, the new additions of Abby, Cody, and others are a welcomed, healing balm that also provided the balance of comic relief badly needed by the pack. There was so much suspense and tension from the last book. BUT the best part is when Calli realizes that there are more familial relations around her than first realized. This book reminds me of the fantastic family reunions but under dire situations. Newly discovered family links reunited (though limited in scope and time), Calli has to decide what will be best for the future while holding on to the past. It all came slowly but interesting as pieces come together like a pull between characters as early as Book 1, so it's not just an after-thought.
Expect the intimate scenes to be H-O-T with more connections and "bonds" made as Calli discovers more about her powers, heritage, and the pack she calls family. More problems arise as forces outside the pack and other "groups" discover Calli and her pack.
Thirdly, the big scenes close to the end of the book were a non-stop, mesmerizing, and heart-stopping one!!! It is an underdog group versus a combined clan of werewolves and witches! It all felt like there was no hope because when they faced the "final enemy," their Plan A did not work, and with no Plan B. BUT - no one accounted how far Calli and "the pack" have come as a group and their powers. Some scenes near the end may make one's stomach churn - very gruesome and horrific revelations that might not be for the faint-hearted. I was stunned at the atrocities these "people" did and how far they would go to acquire "immense power."
Overall, Blood Feud exceeded my expectations! I love the character development done through their respective powers' growth. It is humbling to realize that this power they wield turns out for the betterment of their society, BUT keeping it from the rest of the world, made me so mad at how manipulative a lot of people were to "contain" power within themselves. I am still on my wit's end, trying NOT to GO CRAZY on the uncertainty looming for the pack (and new characters). There were questions answered but more seemed to come out on my end, especially with the epilogue! Too many unknowns popped up to no end! I cannot wait to get the final book to find out!
May 1, 2023
Honestly I'm not sure why I picked this one up. The first one was decent but a lot of stuff was all thrown at the same time and parts didn't make a lot of sense. Now in this book the author throws two additional relatives at Calli . Maverick and Holly are both in a coma and they need to get them back. Oh yeah, and we get ANOTHER mate. Throw in conniving witches, the final dragon in existence, seers that can see the future but don't do anything or tell anyone anything because then it could all change (yay butterfly effect), and animages that sparked the made up war between witches and shifters and you got a right mess on your hands. Again. We all knew the Councils were corrupt from the beginning, this was just giving history about how they are perpetuating interspecies violence as well as solidifying Calli and her mates' destiny to overthrow them and usher in a new era.
Let's not forget Coby's mom and Wallace making a sudden reappearance. It really had nothing to do with the plot.
I have a hard time sometimes distinguishing between her mates as they all seem very similar in personality. I am also disappointed that none of these books mention any form of birth control despite Calli not wanting kids yet, apparently everything is fine so long as she tracks her cycle because of course that is fool proof.
Sometimes these books get really wordy. On pages 297-298 Grey sums up the entire first half of the book in a couple of lines for Maverick. I added a bit to what he says here, but the gist is .
Let's not forget Coby's mom and Wallace making a sudden reappearance. It really had nothing to do with the plot.
I have a hard time sometimes distinguishing between her mates as they all seem very similar in personality. I am also disappointed that none of these books mention any form of birth control despite Calli not wanting kids yet, apparently everything is fine so long as she tracks her cycle because of course that is fool proof.
Sometimes these books get really wordy. On pages 297-298 Grey sums up the entire first half of the book in a couple of lines for Maverick. I added a bit to what he says here, but the gist is .
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May 26, 2022I didn’t finish this book yet, I’m taking a break from it for a little bit. Since I’m not sure how long that break is going to be, I decided to mark this as read anyways. I just don’t want to keep seeing this book under ‘currently reading’ on Goodreads because that’ll put pressure on me to finish it.
I stopped at 72%. When I started this series I adored it. I thought it was exciting and fun. Unfortunately, I had to wait for the last two books to come out and sometimes that ruins it for me. For some reason it’s never as good if I have to finish the series later.
The reason I’m having difficulty finishing this now is because they never get a damn break. It’s fucking depressing, man. This book shoves us from one major problem straight into the next. None of the main characters even get the chance to sleep for more than a few minutes. I’m exhausted just reading this. She has two new mates that she doesn’t even have enough time to get to know. Everyone in the book is stressed and depressed. Everyone is dying. The pack is falling apart. They aren’t leaning on each other or helping each other through their problems. FMC might as well be single right now. Every single person in the world is the enemy. They have no ally’s.
For all of those reasons, reading this has my anxiety spiraling. I can hardly breathe because this book is stressing me out so much right now. I need a fucking break.
I stopped at 72%. When I started this series I adored it. I thought it was exciting and fun. Unfortunately, I had to wait for the last two books to come out and sometimes that ruins it for me. For some reason it’s never as good if I have to finish the series later.
The reason I’m having difficulty finishing this now is because they never get a damn break. It’s fucking depressing, man. This book shoves us from one major problem straight into the next. None of the main characters even get the chance to sleep for more than a few minutes. I’m exhausted just reading this. She has two new mates that she doesn’t even have enough time to get to know. Everyone in the book is stressed and depressed. Everyone is dying. The pack is falling apart. They aren’t leaning on each other or helping each other through their problems. FMC might as well be single right now. Every single person in the world is the enemy. They have no ally’s.
For all of those reasons, reading this has my anxiety spiraling. I can hardly breathe because this book is stressing me out so much right now. I need a fucking break.
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