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Misfit Protection Program #1
Return to the Hollow
** THE PREQUEL, ROAD TO THE HOLLOW, SHOULD BE READ PRIOR TO THIS BOOK. **
It is neither intelligent nor polite to tell a true Southern woman with a gun she can’t do something.
After I was informed my career with the F.B.I. was dead in the water, I packed up what little pride I had left to solve the mystery of my failed background check. However, the key to my past lurks in the one place I thought I'd never set foot in again--Whistler's Hollow.
I vowed to never return to that hotbed of intrigue and elite Southern bullshit when I escaped to State U 14 years ago.
Now I’m living in my childhood home amongst the people who nearly killed me in my youth. I’m surrounded by hot guys, mischievous animals, bullies, gossips, and enough mystery for me to put my considerable talents to good use.
Nothing is what it seems in this small Southern town, but I’m determined to unravel the tangled web of my past before it destroys my future.
It is neither intelligent nor polite to tell a true Southern woman with a gun she can’t do something.
After I was informed my career with the F.B.I. was dead in the water, I packed up what little pride I had left to solve the mystery of my failed background check. However, the key to my past lurks in the one place I thought I'd never set foot in again--Whistler's Hollow.
I vowed to never return to that hotbed of intrigue and elite Southern bullshit when I escaped to State U 14 years ago.
Now I’m living in my childhood home amongst the people who nearly killed me in my youth. I’m surrounded by hot guys, mischievous animals, bullies, gossips, and enough mystery for me to put my considerable talents to good use.
Nothing is what it seems in this small Southern town, but I’m determined to unravel the tangled web of my past before it destroys my future.
454 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 2, 2022
70 people are currently reading
247 people want to read
About the author
Cassandra Featherstone
62 books1,101 followersCassandra Featherstone has channeled her lifelong passion for writing into a flourishing career, a journey that started when she first grasped a pencil as a gifted child with ADHD.
Her debut novel, born during the solitude of COVID lockdown in March 2020, draws on a tapestry of personal encounters and insights that resonate deeply with her readers.
An international bestseller, Cassandra has topped Amazon charts in categories such as LGBT Anthologies, LGBTQ+ Mystery, and Bisexual Romance, among others. Her works navigate the complexities of bullying, PTSD, body dysmorphia, mental health struggles, personal reinvention, and the empowerment of claiming one's own space. Importantly, Cassandra offers a thoughtful and respectful portrayal of LGBTQIA+ relationships, subtly reflecting her own connection with the community through her narratives.
Her literary repertoire spans sci-fi fantasy, urban fantasy, paranormal, and comedic genres in academy whychoose settings, with a strong commitment to portraying consensual, safe, and accurately depicted BDSM and kink lifestyles. Her books are an invitation to explore transformative stories that are both inclusive and engaging.
Often affectionately called ‘The Muppet’ for her wacky theater kid personality, she resides in the Midwest with her tech-savvy husband, their creatively inclined college student, a literary-minded dog, and four scheming cats.
Her debut novel, born during the solitude of COVID lockdown in March 2020, draws on a tapestry of personal encounters and insights that resonate deeply with her readers.
An international bestseller, Cassandra has topped Amazon charts in categories such as LGBT Anthologies, LGBTQ+ Mystery, and Bisexual Romance, among others. Her works navigate the complexities of bullying, PTSD, body dysmorphia, mental health struggles, personal reinvention, and the empowerment of claiming one's own space. Importantly, Cassandra offers a thoughtful and respectful portrayal of LGBTQIA+ relationships, subtly reflecting her own connection with the community through her narratives.
Her literary repertoire spans sci-fi fantasy, urban fantasy, paranormal, and comedic genres in academy whychoose settings, with a strong commitment to portraying consensual, safe, and accurately depicted BDSM and kink lifestyles. Her books are an invitation to explore transformative stories that are both inclusive and engaging.
Often affectionately called ‘The Muppet’ for her wacky theater kid personality, she resides in the Midwest with her tech-savvy husband, their creatively inclined college student, a literary-minded dog, and four scheming cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
January 4, 2022
First off, I would suggest reading this as book 2. I don’t think I would have known what was going on if I didn’t read the “prequel”.
Does anyone know what drugar means in English?? I looked it up and found comrade, pal or friend and not gonna lie, I don’t like that as a nickname from a boyfriend. That wouldn’t make me feel special at all, maybe it was road to the hollow that gave a different meaning and I forgot?
Anyone else really confused by the bonds? Just me? I have a lot of reasons why they confuse me;
- how does Jolene not notice that she’s been permanently marked? It’s on her neck! Also she’s supposedly been marked 4 times? What and where are the other marks?
- at one point one bf mentions he gets her feelings through the Bond but then wtf happens to that at the end? Those last few chapters he should have been getting a lot from the Bond and he was off with his other bond mate and galavanting around outside, so no feelings coming from Jolene in a very emotionally intense situation? Does not compute
- one of them is fully bonded to her but makes a comment that he’s not???
- the pull??
- one of the guys thinks she’ll have 7, but who is #7??? Is he from the prequel? Am I crazy? I count 4 bf’s+2 potentials=6
(ps I don’t know if I can get on board with one of the potentials but not because he isn’t a nice guy it’s 100% due to his family but probably not what you’re thinking haha, go read this and we can argue over him)
The good- tons of action, has a storyline, likable main characters for the most part. I’m definitely rooting for Jolene, loads of questions leftover, some steamy scenes.
The reason this is a 3 star read for me is that while it’s fun and action packed with some good steamy scenes it felt like a lot was missing. I mean like scenes had been cut but or not written due to size of book, but to me I would have preferred to read them over some of the scenes that did make, like the target practice in the beginning. Maybe that will be really important in later books but With my current knowledge I would rather get more on the bonding between the guys, the trial or what happened to her parents.
It’s multiple POV’s so as the reader we know more than Jolene, but there’s a lot that is mentioned after the fact and we have no idea what happened. The biggest issue in that for me is the bond between the guys. We get a scene where two of them connect intimately for the first time and it was good (but seemed like a minor barely there connection to me), but then it’s never picked up again until suddenly they are fully bonded. Uh, what? When, how, where did this happen? I would have really loved to see more of a relationship progression. It was a zero to 60 fully bonded but we don’t get to experience that progression with them. It all happened off screen, but when? It also made it sound like it happened over a longer period of time but based on events in the book it was maybe a week from point A to point B?? Please help if I am wrong!
We also get a scene where one guy is thinking about how he doesn’t know if his other side will ever bond with either Jolene or his guy, but then his guy is suddenly marked and bonded to him but not Jolene? How, when, why, what??? Just felt like something big happened between the men and we missed out on all of it and because it’s multi pov we could have had that experience and I personally would have liked that.
There were some mentions that they need to say words after blank happens but then nothing is ever said.
What the heck happens with the trial? We get to see one vote but nothing else?
What happened on campus? Did they find what they were looking for? Did I miss it?
Why does anyone follow queen birch? Based off what everyone knows about her “type” she shouldn’t be powerful in the extranormal community, she should be nothing but they still do everything she says?
Final reason it’s 3 stars for me is the trope of all the women in this town being mean girls. She has her bff but she’s from another country. Jolene also seems to hate any woman that isn’t her bff, including the gf of bff. Melika is kind of ok to Jolene too. She’s got a ton of insecurities and baggage around women and friends and I find that really hard to relate to. I was bullied in middle school but then made true friendships with girls that I am still friends with over 20 years later, so this is not an experience I’ve had or even one I am very good at suspending my disbelief for.
Does anyone know what drugar means in English?? I looked it up and found comrade, pal or friend and not gonna lie, I don’t like that as a nickname from a boyfriend. That wouldn’t make me feel special at all, maybe it was road to the hollow that gave a different meaning and I forgot?
Anyone else really confused by the bonds? Just me? I have a lot of reasons why they confuse me;
- how does Jolene not notice that she’s been permanently marked? It’s on her neck! Also she’s supposedly been marked 4 times? What and where are the other marks?
- at one point one bf mentions he gets her feelings through the Bond but then wtf happens to that at the end? Those last few chapters he should have been getting a lot from the Bond and he was off with his other bond mate and galavanting around outside, so no feelings coming from Jolene in a very emotionally intense situation? Does not compute
- one of them is fully bonded to her but makes a comment that he’s not???
- the pull??
- one of the guys thinks she’ll have 7, but who is #7??? Is he from the prequel? Am I crazy? I count 4 bf’s+2 potentials=6
(ps I don’t know if I can get on board with one of the potentials but not because he isn’t a nice guy it’s 100% due to his family but probably not what you’re thinking haha, go read this and we can argue over him)
The good- tons of action, has a storyline, likable main characters for the most part. I’m definitely rooting for Jolene, loads of questions leftover, some steamy scenes.
The reason this is a 3 star read for me is that while it’s fun and action packed with some good steamy scenes it felt like a lot was missing. I mean like scenes had been cut but or not written due to size of book, but to me I would have preferred to read them over some of the scenes that did make, like the target practice in the beginning. Maybe that will be really important in later books but With my current knowledge I would rather get more on the bonding between the guys, the trial or what happened to her parents.
It’s multiple POV’s so as the reader we know more than Jolene, but there’s a lot that is mentioned after the fact and we have no idea what happened. The biggest issue in that for me is the bond between the guys. We get a scene where two of them connect intimately for the first time and it was good (but seemed like a minor barely there connection to me), but then it’s never picked up again until suddenly they are fully bonded. Uh, what? When, how, where did this happen? I would have really loved to see more of a relationship progression. It was a zero to 60 fully bonded but we don’t get to experience that progression with them. It all happened off screen, but when? It also made it sound like it happened over a longer period of time but based on events in the book it was maybe a week from point A to point B?? Please help if I am wrong!
We also get a scene where one guy is thinking about how he doesn’t know if his other side will ever bond with either Jolene or his guy, but then his guy is suddenly marked and bonded to him but not Jolene? How, when, why, what??? Just felt like something big happened between the men and we missed out on all of it and because it’s multi pov we could have had that experience and I personally would have liked that.
There were some mentions that they need to say words after blank happens but then nothing is ever said.
What the heck happens with the trial? We get to see one vote but nothing else?
What happened on campus? Did they find what they were looking for? Did I miss it?
Why does anyone follow queen birch? Based off what everyone knows about her “type” she shouldn’t be powerful in the extranormal community, she should be nothing but they still do everything she says?
Final reason it’s 3 stars for me is the trope of all the women in this town being mean girls. She has her bff but she’s from another country. Jolene also seems to hate any woman that isn’t her bff, including the gf of bff. Melika is kind of ok to Jolene too. She’s got a ton of insecurities and baggage around women and friends and I find that really hard to relate to. I was bullied in middle school but then made true friendships with girls that I am still friends with over 20 years later, so this is not an experience I’ve had or even one I am very good at suspending my disbelief for.
May 17, 2024
2.5
This book is a combination of to much information while also having not enough information. Something’s were referred to over and over again and yet weren’t explained. So, I didn’t have a clue what/why/how about something but it was frequently referred to without any detail. It isn’t until the 2nd book that these things were fleshed out more.
Each character’s name is 3 words long and any one of their names (first, middle, last) areused along with numerous nickname. It was really confusing who was talking to whom. For example someone in the harem might be called by 4-9 different names by different people. I almost felt like I needed note cards to keep everyone separate.
I read the omnibus that had book 0.5, 1, 2, and an extra book.The extra book was about 90% redundant but from the POV of everyone but Jolene. It would have events already covered in book 1 and 2 but from another POV but it wasn’t that much different than in book 1 and 2. It helped clear up a couple of things. I would have liked to have the extra book broken up and sprinkled in book 1 and 2 and possibly through out a good chunk of them since they didn’t add anything.
The h is a real Mary Sue. She seems to have slept, worked, saved, negotiated with soooo many people. It is constantly brought up. She brokered that peace treaty, worked for that CEO, fucked that rock star etc. She also earned multiple degrees, speaks multiple languages and she is only in her 20's. Unless she is Doogie Howser and graduated high school as a pre-teen there is no way she could have achieved a fraction of what is mentioned.
This book is a combination of to much information while also having not enough information. Something’s were referred to over and over again and yet weren’t explained. So, I didn’t have a clue what/why/how about something but it was frequently referred to without any detail. It isn’t until the 2nd book that these things were fleshed out more.
Each character’s name is 3 words long and any one of their names (first, middle, last) areused along with numerous nickname. It was really confusing who was talking to whom. For example someone in the harem might be called by 4-9 different names by different people. I almost felt like I needed note cards to keep everyone separate.
I read the omnibus that had book 0.5, 1, 2, and an extra book.The extra book was about 90% redundant but from the POV of everyone but Jolene. It would have events already covered in book 1 and 2 but from another POV but it wasn’t that much different than in book 1 and 2. It helped clear up a couple of things. I would have liked to have the extra book broken up and sprinkled in book 1 and 2 and possibly through out a good chunk of them since they didn’t add anything.
The h is a real Mary Sue. She seems to have slept, worked, saved, negotiated with soooo many people. It is constantly brought up. She brokered that peace treaty, worked for that CEO, fucked that rock star etc. She also earned multiple degrees, speaks multiple languages and she is only in her 20's. Unless she is Doogie Howser and graduated high school as a pre-teen there is no way she could have achieved a fraction of what is mentioned.
December 31, 2021
This book was absolutely amazing!
Jolene Whitley has moved back to her hometown, Whistler’s Hollow. Jolene is surrounded by hot guys, mischievous animals and of course her old high school bullies.
This book is full of mystery, suspense, humour and plenty of sexy men. I really enjoyed the story and getting to know the characters. I definitely can’t wait to see what happens next!
Jolene Whitley has moved back to her hometown, Whistler’s Hollow. Jolene is surrounded by hot guys, mischievous animals and of course her old high school bullies.
This book is full of mystery, suspense, humour and plenty of sexy men. I really enjoyed the story and getting to know the characters. I definitely can’t wait to see what happens next!
January 20, 2022
I adored the prequel and could not wait for this release. Reading the prequel is a definite must to understand this book, I think this is more of a book 2 rather than a book 1.
There is plenty of action, steam, laughs and drama to keep you entertained throughout. I wasn’t sure where this book was going to be going after reading the first book and I enjoy the direction that this book took. This author always has such creative worlds and I like that this one is as well.
I think the multiple point of views was a definite strength for this book. Many things made more sense and I liked getting to know the characters more.
I’m loving the world that this author has created and I can’t wait to continue on with the series.
There is plenty of action, steam, laughs and drama to keep you entertained throughout. I wasn’t sure where this book was going to be going after reading the first book and I enjoy the direction that this book took. This author always has such creative worlds and I like that this one is as well.
I think the multiple point of views was a definite strength for this book. Many things made more sense and I liked getting to know the characters more.
I’m loving the world that this author has created and I can’t wait to continue on with the series.
January 6, 2022
I really enjoyed the prequel but this book is all over the place. It’s really hard to keep track of characters cuz everyone has nicknames and are in and out so much. Then there’s all the secrets that Jolene doesn’t know. They don’t even talk about people being supes until over halfway through. Even as side characters. It’s always our other side. If it had been more focused and less convoluted I feel like I would’ve enjoyed it more. But I’ve been waiting for it to end and now I’m like what was with the ending. A 3 was me being generous cuz I think there’s a good book in here
January 4, 2022
I loved the prequel; this is even better! To be honest there were a few things that I had a hard time understanding, or felt were missing but I took the time to read it again, and it helped some. There were a few spots I felt stuff was missing though. In the end though, I loved it. There’s something for everyone, there’s the companion animals, shifters, spicy scenes, lots of drama, mystery, and many rom-com LOL moments. I felt like I crash landed in the Hollow right along with Jolene, I was immersed in her world. I would highly recommend reading the prequel as it would be harder to understand what was happening without it. I cannot wait for the next book; to see where this story leads. I will be here pondering what’s next for Jolene and her hunky guys until then. Such an amazing world that Cassandra has been able to create! 🖤
January 11, 2022
Jam Packed with Excitement!!
This was the perfect follow up to Road to the Hollow and I LOVED it!!! There was so much more mystery than the prequel and I took so many notes with all the questions I have. I absolutely loved the animals and all their antics and the guys…..yyuuuummmmyyy!!! There are a toooonnnn of details within the pages of this book so I would highly recommend having a notepad next to you so you can keep track of everything. And after that ending…..WTH?!?!? My fingernails are almost nonexistent and I’m missing quite a bit of hair now lol!!! I’m SSOOO excited for the next book!!!
This was the perfect follow up to Road to the Hollow and I LOVED it!!! There was so much more mystery than the prequel and I took so many notes with all the questions I have. I absolutely loved the animals and all their antics and the guys…..yyuuuummmmyyy!!! There are a toooonnnn of details within the pages of this book so I would highly recommend having a notepad next to you so you can keep track of everything. And after that ending…..WTH?!?!? My fingernails are almost nonexistent and I’m missing quite a bit of hair now lol!!! I’m SSOOO excited for the next book!!!
April 8, 2022
I'm really enjoying this series. It's original, and I like the mysteries surrounding Jolene and the place she has come from. Tiny snippets of intel make it possible to gradually build the bigger picture, but it's clear we are still missing a lot of puzzle pieces. I like the bonds that are forming between these characters and I'm curious to find out who else will join the growing family. While reading this series I have been wondering occasionally how Cassandra's brain works... I have read books with shifters and familiars in the past, but the way some of these familiars show up is highly original (and entertaining). I believe this woman sees opportunities everywhere she goes, like: "Huh, an airvent, why not have an animal fall from there?" When you read this series, it's best to expect the unexpected...
January 3, 2022
I freaking love this series! So much mystery and all this drip feeding of information that just fits together in this perfect intricate web that must of taken so much planning! I can’t wait to read more! I love our FMC Jolene and her crazy antics she makes me laugh out loud especially when it comes to her sense of humour with Seer her bestie. You definitely must read the prequel or I think you’ll get mighty confused but this book will definitely drag you in and you won’t want to stop once you start!!
January 8, 2022
Great read
I saw this as a recommended read and an so glad I downloaded it.
Loving the snarky, mysterious self assured (most of the time) Jolene. Cant wait to find out what she will end up being
And yes I do want to sing the song everytime Haha.
She has such a varied 4 man/otherworldly harem to date and hints of a new one in there, and an eclectic array of familiars keep popping up to claim her. Its left on a huge cliffhanger though, so hope the next book comes out sooner than date.
I saw this as a recommended read and an so glad I downloaded it.
Loving the snarky, mysterious self assured (most of the time) Jolene. Cant wait to find out what she will end up being
And yes I do want to sing the song everytime Haha.
She has such a varied 4 man/otherworldly harem to date and hints of a new one in there, and an eclectic array of familiars keep popping up to claim her. Its left on a huge cliffhanger though, so hope the next book comes out sooner than date.
December 30, 2021
Ok so I'm going to be as honest as I can
The good thing about this book is the plot and the characters themselves.
I liked reading what I did of this book.
The thing is I couldn't finish this book I did try my hardest but it didn't make any sense it was too much at one time.
There was no build up and way to many characters all at the same time.
What I will do is try again and re read this book and try to unravel it but don't feel to bad it is a good story line and I hope people give this book a shot as I do love cassandras work.
The good thing about this book is the plot and the characters themselves.
I liked reading what I did of this book.
The thing is I couldn't finish this book I did try my hardest but it didn't make any sense it was too much at one time.
There was no build up and way to many characters all at the same time.
What I will do is try again and re read this book and try to unravel it but don't feel to bad it is a good story line and I hope people give this book a shot as I do love cassandras work.
January 2, 2022
Jolene is back home in the Whistler's Hollow.. This story has something for everyone, companion animals, mystery, the supernatural, fashion, mean girls, excitement, and steam to spare. The characters are amazing, I personally love Seer, but Jolene is amazing and the guys are pretty fancy too. I also have to say that the detail in the book is amazing, you almost feel like you could reach out and pet Hyde.
January 12, 2022
Enjoyable Read
I'm glad to see this book has now been labelled book 2 as if you hadn't read the "prequel" you would have found it very confusing. I must admit it took me a while to get into it as I couldn't remember much about book one except the cats!!
So this book is filled with animals, plenty of fun and lots of steam. Looks like there is going to be more guys for Jolene than I expected, I hope we get to know them all properly with plenty of interaction between the guys and Jolene.
An enjoyable paranormal RH especially if you're an animal lover.
I'm glad to see this book has now been labelled book 2 as if you hadn't read the "prequel" you would have found it very confusing. I must admit it took me a while to get into it as I couldn't remember much about book one except the cats!!
So this book is filled with animals, plenty of fun and lots of steam. Looks like there is going to be more guys for Jolene than I expected, I hope we get to know them all properly with plenty of interaction between the guys and Jolene.
An enjoyable paranormal RH especially if you're an animal lover.
January 25, 2022
Fantastic and Hilarious
This book was spectacularly funny mixed with a hella lot of steam! You have to try this book! Jolene and her men are perfection.
This is very fast burn and not all characters speak with English accent- this was a little tough for me at first but you get the hang of it!
This book was spectacularly funny mixed with a hella lot of steam! You have to try this book! Jolene and her men are perfection.
This is very fast burn and not all characters speak with English accent- this was a little tough for me at first but you get the hang of it!
January 11, 2022
The last book only gave a slight little insights to possible what's to come. This book however blew all those out of the water and left us with so many questions so many what if's so many however it's in sane! There are slight little hints that you might think or errors but they're not. Her number of mates for starters. What some of the people are. There's just so much going on in this book you don't want to put it down! And then when you get to the end to what do you think it's going to be a great retribution for her past and you get that cliffhanger ending. I'm betting there's a few people without hair out there! I need the next book and I need it now!
January 10, 2022
I really really liked the prequel, was super excited for this. But the whole Jolene being a secret supernatural for (at least half, dnf) just wasn't keeping me interested unfortunately. Fast Burn romance but super slow build plot 😅
Rating it a 4 bc I love Cassandra but I just wasn't able to finish. 😔
Rating it a 4 bc I love Cassandra but I just wasn't able to finish. 😔
May 7, 2022
Jolene just can't seem to catch a break. She is still trying to figure out why her life has brought her back to the hollow. She keeps collecting more men and more animals. Secrets abound in this small town and nothing is as is seems. Jolene is a smart sassy FMC. I love her bestie and her men are soo much fun.
January 3, 2022
Oh man how I fall even deeper in love with Jolene and her guys! These characters are freaking spectacular and so funny. This small town is literally filled with everything from mystery, the drama, them punk a$$ mean heffas and all the animals! I seriously can’t wait to see what happens next.
January 6, 2022
Jolene is back in her hometown, surrounded by mystery and lots of hot guys. It’s quirky, funny, and Cassandra blows you away with story detailing. I highly recommend reading the prequel first so you have a better understanding of what is happening. Can’t wait to read what happens next.
January 4, 2022
So this book is pretty amazing. This is book 2 in a series so do read book 1 before reading this one. Jolene is pretty awesome and I quickly knew again why I fell in love with her caracter. Mystery at hand in the town where she grew up. I love the drama this book brings and the sexy men don't hurt either.
January 21, 2022
It is better to read the "prequel" (= Road to the Hollow) it explains a lot. But this book was way better then its prequel.
Jolene Whitley moved back to her hometown Whistler's Hollow. (I love her crazy antics)
Where she finds mystery and a lot of guys.
This book has a lot of elements: hot guys, companion animals, steamy scenes, drama, mystery, shifters, romantic moments and so on.
I am very curious to see where this story will lead. Can't wait for the next book.
Jolene Whitley moved back to her hometown Whistler's Hollow. (I love her crazy antics)
Where she finds mystery and a lot of guys.
This book has a lot of elements: hot guys, companion animals, steamy scenes, drama, mystery, shifters, romantic moments and so on.
I am very curious to see where this story will lead. Can't wait for the next book.
January 20, 2022
I had a really hard time putting this book down! I definitely suggest reading the prequal before starting this book. Jolene is such a strong charter and her men are off the charts. I loved all the mystery, humor, suspense and smex this book has to offer. That cliffy was definitely has but an sure will be worth it with next book.
January 20, 2022
Addicting
Amazing plot and characters. I enjoy watching the harem dynamic as it gets larger. I can't wait for the next book!
Amazing plot and characters. I enjoy watching the harem dynamic as it gets larger. I can't wait for the next book!
February 12, 2022
Suspense
I absolutely love this series! I love the world and character building. I love all her guys and I normally only have one ot two I really like! It definitely keeps you guessing and you can tell she has done her research! Can't wait for book 3!
I absolutely love this series! I love the world and character building. I love all her guys and I normally only have one ot two I really like! It definitely keeps you guessing and you can tell she has done her research! Can't wait for book 3!
March 15, 2022
Very mysterious.
This book is packed so full of mystery! It’s very confusing. But the storyline is awesome and I want to on know more!
This book is packed so full of mystery! It’s very confusing. But the storyline is awesome and I want to on know more!
May 31, 2022
This book keeps you in the dark, re-reading page after page, attempting to work out what’s going on.
I enjoyed the prequel. I naively assumed the lack of information and the strange writing style, would become clearer in this book, it doesn't.
The FMC Jolene is a supe, she doesn’t know it but the FBI does, which causes her to fail a background check. This is the catalyst for returning to her hometown where she undertakes a personal journey to face up to an event which earned her the name “The Catastrophe”, the death of her parents, and her emotional fall-out from her fiancé leaving her. At the end of this long book, we still don't have any details of these events, and little progress seems to have been made.
Jolene has a list of qualifications, training, and impressive international jobs which most people couldn’t achieve in a lifetime. Yet she is an emotional mess, self-absorbed, aloof with a superior attitude, and I find her difficult to like.
Her sidekick, Seer, is meant to be Irish I think, but her dialogue is confusing (e.g., Insulting my mates innit the best plan, ye see….). I find her remote, brash and a bit of a contradiction, I don’t like her.
I had no strong reaction to any of the men, but that isn’t helped by the writing style. Every character has many names e.g. One of her men can be Wolfgang/Wolfie/McBabyVet/Lucy or Fletcher interchangeably, so I was constantly wondering who was speaking!
I’m genuinely interested by the plot, but it's slow moving and difficult to grasp due to a lack of information. When information is hinted at, Jolene doesn’t chase down the pertinent points, instead she obsesses over the emotional ones meaning we stay in the dark. At times the book feels a bit YA because of unnecessary drama; instead of a straightforward action, the harem cooks up elaborate, juvenile, and unnecessary plots to achieve their aims. You are Adults; if you want to leave a dance, leave it!
Some sentences lack punctuation and must be read multiple times, to make any sense. Slang and odd phrases are used which I’ve assumed are common to the South, they made no sense to me. Foreign language is used and only explained at the end of a chapter. But by far the most frustration comes from being kept in the dark; In one paragraph spells, powers, a fog, and the “other side” are discussed. The reader doesn’t know (or learn) what the spells are, what the powers are, what the fog is or where the other side is. Please give me details?!!
The book finishes on a cliff hanger. Sadly I’m not convinced the intrigue will outweigh my frustration, so I probably won't read any further.
I enjoyed the prequel. I naively assumed the lack of information and the strange writing style, would become clearer in this book, it doesn't.
The FMC Jolene is a supe, she doesn’t know it but the FBI does, which causes her to fail a background check. This is the catalyst for returning to her hometown where she undertakes a personal journey to face up to an event which earned her the name “The Catastrophe”, the death of her parents, and her emotional fall-out from her fiancé leaving her. At the end of this long book, we still don't have any details of these events, and little progress seems to have been made.
Jolene has a list of qualifications, training, and impressive international jobs which most people couldn’t achieve in a lifetime. Yet she is an emotional mess, self-absorbed, aloof with a superior attitude, and I find her difficult to like.
Her sidekick, Seer, is meant to be Irish I think, but her dialogue is confusing (e.g., Insulting my mates innit the best plan, ye see….). I find her remote, brash and a bit of a contradiction, I don’t like her.
I had no strong reaction to any of the men, but that isn’t helped by the writing style. Every character has many names e.g. One of her men can be Wolfgang/Wolfie/McBabyVet/Lucy or Fletcher interchangeably, so I was constantly wondering who was speaking!
I’m genuinely interested by the plot, but it's slow moving and difficult to grasp due to a lack of information. When information is hinted at, Jolene doesn’t chase down the pertinent points, instead she obsesses over the emotional ones meaning we stay in the dark. At times the book feels a bit YA because of unnecessary drama; instead of a straightforward action, the harem cooks up elaborate, juvenile, and unnecessary plots to achieve their aims. You are Adults; if you want to leave a dance, leave it!
Some sentences lack punctuation and must be read multiple times, to make any sense. Slang and odd phrases are used which I’ve assumed are common to the South, they made no sense to me. Foreign language is used and only explained at the end of a chapter. But by far the most frustration comes from being kept in the dark; In one paragraph spells, powers, a fog, and the “other side” are discussed. The reader doesn’t know (or learn) what the spells are, what the powers are, what the fog is or where the other side is. Please give me details?!!
The book finishes on a cliff hanger. Sadly I’m not convinced the intrigue will outweigh my frustration, so I probably won't read any further.
June 6, 2022
This is a roller coaster. There is a lot going on and you have to keep your head on a swivel. There are new potential harem members showing up in this one and the relationships between Jolene and her original three deepen, which was fun to watch. The steam is high in this one! That cliffhanger though… Wowza, the next book can’t come quick enough. I’m overly invested in these characters now!! Cannot wait to see what happens next.
March 30, 2022
I loved the prequel but I found this one difficult to follow. Even with it being difficult to follow I liked the FMC and her guys and I was trying to figure it out. I stopped and did not finish at almost 50%. I find when there are guys added to the harem as the story progresses it needs to be done with care. Meeting a guy in the alley & getting physical without regards to her other guys is just cheating to me and not adding to the harem respectfully and that is when I had to put it down.
May 28, 2022
When I read Road to the Hollow, the first book in the Misfit Protection Program, I knew it was gonna be a fantastic series. Cassandra exceeded my expectations, Return to the Hollow was such a fantastic read and is now one of my favorites ever.
Jolene is fabulous. I love how she has these weird little quirks and is just herself (most of the time), the snark, attitude, witty comebacks, intelligence, and sense of humor makes for a wonderfully loveable character. Jolene is a badass who has a lot of different skills and while she's not a people person (emotions are hard) she knows how to work hard and play hard. The adventures she and her fabulous bestie Saoirse have are wild, they have a fantastic friendship.
While Jolene is a badass she has her issues stemming from the bullying in school and the small town politics, she closed herself off. However, in this book, Jolene is starting to open up to her lovers they are becoming something more and she cares for her companions as well which is good because she is gaining more of each by the minute. The guys in her harem are fantastic and things are becoming more poly, its a lot of groups love going on. Each of the guys have their own chapters, I loved figuring things out and seeing from their perspectives and knowing exactly how much they have come to care for Jolene. My favorite has to be Wolfie, I love McVet so much, he's the gentle one of the group and is so precious.
The thing about Return is that this book is crazy and the plot is so compelling. It's set in this weird southern town with snotty founding families, rich brats, and mean girls the adult version. Not to mention exotic animals, weird occurrences, a dirty council, horrible traditions, bad politics, and more. And all that doesn't include the supernatural aspects of the story. Everyone is tip-toeing around the subject but not, it's hard to gather facts and know exactly what was going but thanks to clues I was able to piece some things together. There are hybrids, the Society, and dangerous group and so many supernaturals with varying powers, it was all very cool even the snark between Joelen and the rest of the town.
Return to the Hollow was excellent. Things left off on an odd note that has me wondering what the heck is going on. Jolene is also starting to show more capabilities and the guys are keyed up too. I'm so excited for the next book. One thing is for sure, I wonder what kinda trouble is Jolene gonna get into next and how is the crew gonna get her out of it.
Jolene is fabulous. I love how she has these weird little quirks and is just herself (most of the time), the snark, attitude, witty comebacks, intelligence, and sense of humor makes for a wonderfully loveable character. Jolene is a badass who has a lot of different skills and while she's not a people person (emotions are hard) she knows how to work hard and play hard. The adventures she and her fabulous bestie Saoirse have are wild, they have a fantastic friendship.
While Jolene is a badass she has her issues stemming from the bullying in school and the small town politics, she closed herself off. However, in this book, Jolene is starting to open up to her lovers they are becoming something more and she cares for her companions as well which is good because she is gaining more of each by the minute. The guys in her harem are fantastic and things are becoming more poly, its a lot of groups love going on. Each of the guys have their own chapters, I loved figuring things out and seeing from their perspectives and knowing exactly how much they have come to care for Jolene. My favorite has to be Wolfie, I love McVet so much, he's the gentle one of the group and is so precious.
The thing about Return is that this book is crazy and the plot is so compelling. It's set in this weird southern town with snotty founding families, rich brats, and mean girls the adult version. Not to mention exotic animals, weird occurrences, a dirty council, horrible traditions, bad politics, and more. And all that doesn't include the supernatural aspects of the story. Everyone is tip-toeing around the subject but not, it's hard to gather facts and know exactly what was going but thanks to clues I was able to piece some things together. There are hybrids, the Society, and dangerous group and so many supernaturals with varying powers, it was all very cool even the snark between Joelen and the rest of the town.
Return to the Hollow was excellent. Things left off on an odd note that has me wondering what the heck is going on. Jolene is also starting to show more capabilities and the guys are keyed up too. I'm so excited for the next book. One thing is for sure, I wonder what kinda trouble is Jolene gonna get into next and how is the crew gonna get her out of it.
June 18, 2022
Return to the Hollow
(Misfit Protection Program #1)
by Cassandra Featherstone
I received a complimentary copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I class this as volume one and it follows off exactly where the novella ends. Jolene quickly passes from living as a “ lone wolf “, with no family or ties, apart from her BFF, to a somewhat stable daily life. When I say stable, this is as stable as it can be, with an ever-growing following of male admirers and a menagerie trailing her every move! But whereas in the past she would have felt smothered, now it feels as if this is how it should have always been. Jolene’s behaviour and feelings are quickly strengthening.
The story continues pursuing the development of Jolene and her now extended family comprising several living companions which works for them, even if other members of the town frown upon it. Throughout the book, the mystery still flows as to what is going on with Jolene’s past and how it will affect her present situation. One thing is clear: the boys know more than they can reveal to Jolene, but they only have her welfare at heart.
The plot flows well, and I loved the relationships that develop between them. I mean, what woman would not want a group of hot male companions ready to swoop you off your feet at every opportunity? There were just a couple of details when I was left wondering or wanting to know more about the situation, but it did not detract from the dominant theme. The chapters are narrated from different POVs, sometimes Jolene, Wolfgang and so on. This lends a multi-varied approach to the events as they unfold, which makes it even more interesting. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the individual personalities of each character and how they blend wonderfully together.
Whistler’s Hollow becomes a town full of ‘ extra-normals ‘, a combination of magic and shape-shifting fantasy. The story delves into the ordeal surrounding Jolene, fighting to keep control of reality whilst simultaneously attempting to recover her past. The more she tries, the more questions she creates for herself.
When I began to read this, I assumed it would be quite lighthearted, a tale not delving too deeply into intricate details, but how wrong I was. Cassandra Featherstone has created a plethora of characters that are unique, with individual traits.
I recommend it for lovers of mystery and fantasy, especially if you are a fan of a reverse harem.
(Misfit Protection Program #1)
by Cassandra Featherstone
I received a complimentary copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I class this as volume one and it follows off exactly where the novella ends. Jolene quickly passes from living as a “ lone wolf “, with no family or ties, apart from her BFF, to a somewhat stable daily life. When I say stable, this is as stable as it can be, with an ever-growing following of male admirers and a menagerie trailing her every move! But whereas in the past she would have felt smothered, now it feels as if this is how it should have always been. Jolene’s behaviour and feelings are quickly strengthening.
The story continues pursuing the development of Jolene and her now extended family comprising several living companions which works for them, even if other members of the town frown upon it. Throughout the book, the mystery still flows as to what is going on with Jolene’s past and how it will affect her present situation. One thing is clear: the boys know more than they can reveal to Jolene, but they only have her welfare at heart.
The plot flows well, and I loved the relationships that develop between them. I mean, what woman would not want a group of hot male companions ready to swoop you off your feet at every opportunity? There were just a couple of details when I was left wondering or wanting to know more about the situation, but it did not detract from the dominant theme. The chapters are narrated from different POVs, sometimes Jolene, Wolfgang and so on. This lends a multi-varied approach to the events as they unfold, which makes it even more interesting. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the individual personalities of each character and how they blend wonderfully together.
Whistler’s Hollow becomes a town full of ‘ extra-normals ‘, a combination of magic and shape-shifting fantasy. The story delves into the ordeal surrounding Jolene, fighting to keep control of reality whilst simultaneously attempting to recover her past. The more she tries, the more questions she creates for herself.
When I began to read this, I assumed it would be quite lighthearted, a tale not delving too deeply into intricate details, but how wrong I was. Cassandra Featherstone has created a plethora of characters that are unique, with individual traits.
I recommend it for lovers of mystery and fantasy, especially if you are a fan of a reverse harem.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews