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Sweetverse #7
All Packed Up
What happens when an omega is paired with the wrong pack?
You run. Or at least that’s what Wendy did when she felt her heat approaching around her alphas. So with a bag and her best feline friend in tow, Wendy ran.
No more betting, no more fighting, and certainly no more crushing on the fighters. Nic had turned a new leaf and was dedicating himself to his business. But when an omega “finds a broken window in his gym bathroom,” the boring future he had resigned himself to might get a whole lot more interesting.
An omega on the run would do that to anyone.
You run. Or at least that’s what Wendy did when she felt her heat approaching around her alphas. So with a bag and her best feline friend in tow, Wendy ran.
No more betting, no more fighting, and certainly no more crushing on the fighters. Nic had turned a new leaf and was dedicating himself to his business. But when an omega “finds a broken window in his gym bathroom,” the boring future he had resigned himself to might get a whole lot more interesting.
An omega on the run would do that to anyone.
630 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 27, 2022
471 people are currently reading
2136 people want to read
About the author
Lana Kole
27 books426 followersWith a southern twang that's all charm, Lana hails from Tennessee with her four feline roommates. If one of them isn't demanding her attention, she's most likely writing. Her stories bring life to characters who don't fit the mold, romance as sweet as it is sexy, and worlds better than this one.
Author of paranormal, sweet omegaverse, monster romance, and queer love stories with a happily ever after.
Author of paranormal, sweet omegaverse, monster romance, and queer love stories with a happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
September 8, 2022
I really struggle with Omegaverse books where the FMC is fundamentally a conduit for other (almost always m/m) relationships to develop, and thus our FMC ends up not even really being the main character and can probably be interchanged with any other woman off the street. That's exactly how I feel about this book.
You go into it thinking it's about Wendy, running from her awful pack who forced a bond with her, and finding a new family. But... like... it's not REALLY about that. It's more about Nic and his second-chance relationship with his alpha, Grif, and the rest of the pack sort of just happens. Wendy functions as a conduit to bring Nic and Grif back together. Which sucks when you read it, because even towards the end of the book Grif is all about Nic and he doesn't even properly confess his love for Wendy. He just says she's fine because she brought them together. It was made worse because during her heat, Wendy confesses her confusing and strong feelings about Grif as an alpha, and makes it clear she really wants him and feels some sort of connection. But Grif is so focused on Nic that it genuinely feels like he lets Wendy stick around because he knows Nic cares for her.
It's honestly icky to me; it sort of feels misogynistic and gross to have the female character's only purpose be to help a m/m relationship. At that point, I wish the author would just suck it up and write a m/m or mmmm romance to save us the grief of the FMC being treated more like an object and plot device, and less like a person.
Following those main points of contention for me, this book is also extremely long with very little plot - it's really more about the romance and the sex. Tate & Arlo are also such background characters and lack depth, to the point where it's frustrating that they're supposed to be part of this pack but are kind of unimportant.
2 stars because the story itself isn't spectacular, but the overall reading experience is extremely cheapened by the way the FMC isn't even an MC, and is made to feel like merely a plot device. These books are marketed as RH and initially introduced as being about the FMC and her struggles, only to have her thrown in the goddamn trash so we can focus on two dudes.
You go into it thinking it's about Wendy, running from her awful pack who forced a bond with her, and finding a new family. But... like... it's not REALLY about that. It's more about Nic and his second-chance relationship with his alpha, Grif, and the rest of the pack sort of just happens. Wendy functions as a conduit to bring Nic and Grif back together. Which sucks when you read it, because even towards the end of the book Grif is all about Nic and he doesn't even properly confess his love for Wendy. He just says she's fine because she brought them together. It was made worse because during her heat, Wendy confesses her confusing and strong feelings about Grif as an alpha, and makes it clear she really wants him and feels some sort of connection. But Grif is so focused on Nic that it genuinely feels like he lets Wendy stick around because he knows Nic cares for her.
It's honestly icky to me; it sort of feels misogynistic and gross to have the female character's only purpose be to help a m/m relationship. At that point, I wish the author would just suck it up and write a m/m or mmmm romance to save us the grief of the FMC being treated more like an object and plot device, and less like a person.
Following those main points of contention for me, this book is also extremely long with very little plot - it's really more about the romance and the sex. Tate & Arlo are also such background characters and lack depth, to the point where it's frustrating that they're supposed to be part of this pack but are kind of unimportant.
2 stars because the story itself isn't spectacular, but the overall reading experience is extremely cheapened by the way the FMC isn't even an MC, and is made to feel like merely a plot device. These books are marketed as RH and initially introduced as being about the FMC and her struggles, only to have her thrown in the goddamn trash so we can focus on two dudes.
December 22, 2022
basically kathryn moon carried this whole ass series
September 4, 2022
I’m still sorting my thoughts on this one, but I have the same feelings that I had about the last book in this series to be quite honest. Although, I did feel better about the FMC in this book since she didn’t just feel like a total side character. Again, this is not really an RH and it leans poly. Nothing wrong with that per se, it’s just a polycule system with a central connector.
I will say the author spent more time developing relationships in this one, but the Stoners seemed to be a back burner addition in retrospect. This is a massive book and it’s about 75% relationship building and sex with a pretty light plot otherwise. Even with all that page time for relationship and character building I don’t feel like we really got to know the Stoners (I’m calling them that because even though I read the entire book yesterday I can’t on my life remember their names). I ended up skimming a lot of the middle of the book, especially the heat sections because they seemed to just go on forever. I like steam as much as the next girl, but after a while it just didn’t even feel steamy anymore 😅.
Similarly to how the last book was mostly about Stellan (can’t even remember the FMCs name from that one), this book felt mostly about Nic and HIS character growth and HIS relationships. Sure, they were all in it to protect Wendy and she kinda brings them all into forced proximity, but if you remove Wendy from the situation and put literally any other person in there to get them all in the same room you would have had the same outcome. She’s there, but she’s not really vital I guess.
Griffith and Nic are really the main love story in this book, a second chance romance and healing their past. The Stoners are already bonded and come as a pair to click into the unit so there isn’t really anything interesting going on with their relationship, they’re just an easy pair of extra hands to help relieve tension in the group. And Wendy is basically there to facilitate the reunion between Griffith and Nic.
Over her last couple books, I’ve just been getting the feeling that this author would rather be writing M/M romance. 😅
I will say the author spent more time developing relationships in this one, but the Stoners seemed to be a back burner addition in retrospect. This is a massive book and it’s about 75% relationship building and sex with a pretty light plot otherwise. Even with all that page time for relationship and character building I don’t feel like we really got to know the Stoners (I’m calling them that because even though I read the entire book yesterday I can’t on my life remember their names). I ended up skimming a lot of the middle of the book, especially the heat sections because they seemed to just go on forever. I like steam as much as the next girl, but after a while it just didn’t even feel steamy anymore 😅.
Similarly to how the last book was mostly about Stellan (can’t even remember the FMCs name from that one), this book felt mostly about Nic and HIS character growth and HIS relationships. Sure, they were all in it to protect Wendy and she kinda brings them all into forced proximity, but if you remove Wendy from the situation and put literally any other person in there to get them all in the same room you would have had the same outcome. She’s there, but she’s not really vital I guess.
Griffith and Nic are really the main love story in this book, a second chance romance and healing their past. The Stoners are already bonded and come as a pair to click into the unit so there isn’t really anything interesting going on with their relationship, they’re just an easy pair of extra hands to help relieve tension in the group. And Wendy is basically there to facilitate the reunion between Griffith and Nic.
Over her last couple books, I’ve just been getting the feeling that this author would rather be writing M/M romance. 😅
September 6, 2022
The four men were certainly (generally) very sweet to the female omega FMC Wendy, but I felt like the book was mostly around the beta Nic, Wendy, and his ex Griffin, with the two bonded Stoners as very very minor side characters that probably could have been cut without much impact to the overall plot.
I didn't recall the specific rules of alpha/omega bonding in this omegaverse, but generally, as a whole, if the omega refused to emotionally/mentally accept the bite, it shouldn't take. However, Wendy agonized over her unwanted bite for the majority of the book, and it could still be used to physically track her down. Only in the final pages did Wendy learn how to get rid of her old unwanted alpha bite, which seemed like very bad timing to figure out something that affected her so significantly.
Although I do like my smut scenes, this book was rather long for the amount of relationship development and action it covered. It ended up dragging by the last 15%, and I just wanted to see when Wendy would finally accept all the alpha's mating bites. The resolution with the evil ex-pack was kind of unsatisfactory for all the fuss that abusing an omega supposedly was.
It was overall an okay read and would be most enjoyed by people looking for a found family trope with lots of omegaverse and menage scenes, especially with MM.
I didn't recall the specific rules of alpha/omega bonding in this omegaverse, but generally, as a whole, if the omega refused to emotionally/mentally accept the bite, it shouldn't take. However, Wendy agonized over her unwanted bite for the majority of the book, and it could still be used to physically track her down. Only in the final pages did Wendy learn how to get rid of her old unwanted alpha bite, which seemed like very bad timing to figure out something that affected her so significantly.
Although I do like my smut scenes, this book was rather long for the amount of relationship development and action it covered. It ended up dragging by the last 15%, and I just wanted to see when Wendy would finally accept all the alpha's mating bites. The resolution with the evil ex-pack was kind of unsatisfactory for all the fuss that abusing an omega supposedly was.
It was overall an okay read and would be most enjoyed by people looking for a found family trope with lots of omegaverse and menage scenes, especially with MM.
October 26, 2022
I don't think this author is for me. Every time I forget that and dive in only to remember all her fmc's are basically incubators and otherwise unnecessary to the male characters.
May 8, 2023
I liked Griff the best and so it bothered me how much Wendy “disliked” him (but at the same time clearly liked him). I didn’t connect with Wendy as much so I think that affected my enjoyment of the entire book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 13, 2024
Wendy was a bit of a mess, but still had some self-confidence, or at least the ability to fake confidence. Nic was the first truly positive grounding force in her life. He was dreamy AF with his consent king attitude and protective nature. Griffith was a lil growly but mostly blunt and tended to enjoy teasing. The stoners were my faves and I am devastated they didn’t get more time on page. They were at once the comic relief and a calming influence on the group. I wanted to see more relationship building between Tate and Arlo and everyone else. They had the personalities, but I wanted the depth.
Some of the dialogue was repetitive and made parts of the story drag too.
Spice: 5/5
Triggers: taser shock, discussions of abuse, flashbacks, mentions of imprisonment, violence including choking, fire (off page), stalking by prior partners, mention of death of parent
Some of the dialogue was repetitive and made parts of the story drag too.
Spice: 5/5
Triggers: taser shock, discussions of abuse, flashbacks, mentions of imprisonment, violence including choking, fire (off page), stalking by prior partners, mention of death of parent
March 13, 2024
It was a cute book to end my birthday on.
It lagged a bit and I wish there was more interaction with the other pack.
I wish there WAS a fallout as pay back.
And I wish there had been A baby at the end for the new group because the other pack tried to trap her.
But overall, it was cute.
It lagged a bit and I wish there was more interaction with the other pack.
I wish there WAS a fallout as pay back.
And I wish there had been A baby at the end for the new group because the other pack tried to trap her.
But overall, it was cute.
September 4, 2022
I wanted to love it. Another female omega, BUT OMG WHAT? SHE'S RUNNING FROM LOSERS? Sign. Me. Up.
But the connections in this one, they don't feel as genuine. I feel like, as a bid to keep this story 'different' from her others, this author has created a bunch of characters that are really unique and fun independently, but together, their dialogue and interaction feels a little adrift. I think the easy way to explain it off would be with a: 'oh, well they're a pack of misfits,' but I feel like that does a disservice to the characters this writer has painfully developed. The characters really are awesome, don't get me wrong. And the two pairs of M/M totally make sense together. It's the linking factor, the main omega, that is incongruous.
And I really, really want to blame it on her attitude. She's like...do you remember Emmy? From Baby and Lola's books? She's like--a repurposed version of her, but they wanted to add a sweet edge to her. I'm just not sure those two characteristics are written well enough to vibe in this story. So really, she just becomes a weird piece of work in this book, I had to just muscle through it at points because her humor was just downright mean, and it's like her sweetness totally devolved in the wake of trying to score a punchline.
Plus there's like, a gaslighting scene in the last 10% that was painful to read, not because it was realistic, but because it was so outlandish I couldn't deal. So that didn't help.
So. The least successful of this series (that I've read, but honestly, I didn't read more than the first three and this one). Lola's story was a breathtaking work of art, so I think coming off that two-book wonder, I really couldn't help but be let down by Wendy's story.
Did you like Wendy? What the dynamic with Grif?
Love to know!~
But the connections in this one, they don't feel as genuine. I feel like, as a bid to keep this story 'different' from her others, this author has created a bunch of characters that are really unique and fun independently, but together, their dialogue and interaction feels a little adrift. I think the easy way to explain it off would be with a: 'oh, well they're a pack of misfits,' but I feel like that does a disservice to the characters this writer has painfully developed. The characters really are awesome, don't get me wrong. And the two pairs of M/M totally make sense together. It's the linking factor, the main omega, that is incongruous.
And I really, really want to blame it on her attitude. She's like...do you remember Emmy? From Baby and Lola's books? She's like--a repurposed version of her, but they wanted to add a sweet edge to her. I'm just not sure those two characteristics are written well enough to vibe in this story. So really, she just becomes a weird piece of work in this book, I had to just muscle through it at points because her humor was just downright mean, and it's like her sweetness totally devolved in the wake of trying to score a punchline.
Plus there's like, a gaslighting scene in the last 10% that was painful to read, not because it was realistic, but because it was so outlandish I couldn't deal. So that didn't help.
So. The least successful of this series (that I've read, but honestly, I didn't read more than the first three and this one). Lola's story was a breathtaking work of art, so I think coming off that two-book wonder, I really couldn't help but be let down by Wendy's story.
Did you like Wendy? What the dynamic with Grif?
Love to know!~
January 6, 2025
Jan 2025
Kindle edition
Hoo boy, this one was up and down, round and round. Initially I liked Wendy and Nic, they were sweet and I liked how Nic took care of her in a floundering way. Add in the stoners Arlo and Tate, still sweet. Then there was Griff, Nic's ex and the pain in the ass love triangle that made me want to smack my head against the wall. The whole mine mine mine thing did my head in. Surely by now they know how packs work.
Tate and Arlo felt a bit filler, comedic relief. They were the cute alpha twin type, established bond, fresh air, compared to the tense three way. If I wasn't at work I probably would've yelled Hallelujah when they finally got their act together. The shopping trip was cute. Stellan getting involved was expected given that his pack ran in those circles. Felt like the other pack got off easy and mostly off page. Bits were cute, bits were annoying and it did drag a little. Felt like a lot of sex, getting ready for the heat and the heat itself.
Kindle edition
Hoo boy, this one was up and down, round and round. Initially I liked Wendy and Nic, they were sweet and I liked how Nic took care of her in a floundering way. Add in the stoners Arlo and Tate, still sweet. Then there was Griff, Nic's ex and the pain in the ass love triangle that made me want to smack my head against the wall. The whole mine mine mine thing did my head in. Surely by now they know how packs work.
Tate and Arlo felt a bit filler, comedic relief. They were the cute alpha twin type, established bond, fresh air, compared to the tense three way. If I wasn't at work I probably would've yelled Hallelujah when they finally got their act together. The shopping trip was cute. Stellan getting involved was expected given that his pack ran in those circles. Felt like the other pack got off easy and mostly off page. Bits were cute, bits were annoying and it did drag a little. Felt like a lot of sex, getting ready for the heat and the heat itself.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 28, 2022
This one wasn't really to my taste. I didn't like any of the characters, I found Wendy particularly irritating, and I dunno. It just wasn't for me. I thought the relationships were handled nicely, the writing flows well, and it's not a bad story.
Personal pet peeve, it annoys me when authors use "they are" in dialogue. Most people tend to use contractions, and not doing so makes the conversation feel stilted and overly formal for me. It ruins the flow.
Personal pet peeve, it annoys me when authors use "they are" in dialogue. Most people tend to use contractions, and not doing so makes the conversation feel stilted and overly formal for me. It ruins the flow.
July 18, 2023
I think I experienced a lot of what others said, but here's my two cents.
Nic should have been on the cover because this was his story, not Wendy's. And hey, he got everything he wanted.
It really felt like grif and Wendy were together because they didn't want nic to have to choose. I liked the banter they eventually developed and I loved how he cared for her when she had a startle at the boutique, just would have loved to see more moments like that between them so I believed they were in love. I don't believe them.
I get that the author was trying to make smoking seem like an activity that shouldn't be looked down upon, but reading about people getting high over and over just didn't do anything for me.
I thought the gaslighting from the ex pack was portrayed in a very relatable way, making Wendy question herself even when she knew she was right, but they were just a weird set of characters to me. It would have been cool if a few from that pack honestly didn't see how badly Wendy was treated, didn't know she was bonded against her will and started trying to fix things, but they were disposed of awfully quickly.
Tate and arlo...I don't believe they're in love with Wendy either. There just wasn't enough relationship development between them for me to feel it, and I don't think they really added anything to the story.
The book was well written and I enjoyed the imagery for the most part, but it was just so unnecessarily long. Skimmed through a good amount and almost dnfd at 71,% because I just felt like the book never went anywhere.
Eh, idk. Didn't like how nic and grif were like going on overnights without Wendy, they just felt more important to me than their relationship with the omega.
And on that note, why is it that we had all these detailed scenes through her heat while all the l this tension is being cranked up between grif and nic, but towards the end when they FINALLY get their crap together and get together IT WAS FADE TO BLACK. That was quite possibly the only scene I really wanted to be present for, because the whole thing was set up so nicely and I melted when grif started making nic admit the whole police incident wasn't his fault, but we skipped all the good stuff and I was just very irritated by that.
Wasn't a bad story or anything, just moved slowly but still somehow didn't go through much actual real world time as far as the plot goes.
Nic should have been on the cover because this was his story, not Wendy's. And hey, he got everything he wanted.
It really felt like grif and Wendy were together because they didn't want nic to have to choose. I liked the banter they eventually developed and I loved how he cared for her when she had a startle at the boutique, just would have loved to see more moments like that between them so I believed they were in love. I don't believe them.
I get that the author was trying to make smoking seem like an activity that shouldn't be looked down upon, but reading about people getting high over and over just didn't do anything for me.
I thought the gaslighting from the ex pack was portrayed in a very relatable way, making Wendy question herself even when she knew she was right, but they were just a weird set of characters to me. It would have been cool if a few from that pack honestly didn't see how badly Wendy was treated, didn't know she was bonded against her will and started trying to fix things, but they were disposed of awfully quickly.
Tate and arlo...I don't believe they're in love with Wendy either. There just wasn't enough relationship development between them for me to feel it, and I don't think they really added anything to the story.
The book was well written and I enjoyed the imagery for the most part, but it was just so unnecessarily long. Skimmed through a good amount and almost dnfd at 71,% because I just felt like the book never went anywhere.
Eh, idk. Didn't like how nic and grif were like going on overnights without Wendy, they just felt more important to me than their relationship with the omega.
And on that note, why is it that we had all these detailed scenes through her heat while all the l this tension is being cranked up between grif and nic, but towards the end when they FINALLY get their crap together and get together IT WAS FADE TO BLACK. That was quite possibly the only scene I really wanted to be present for, because the whole thing was set up so nicely and I melted when grif started making nic admit the whole police incident wasn't his fault, but we skipped all the good stuff and I was just very irritated by that.
Wasn't a bad story or anything, just moved slowly but still somehow didn't go through much actual real world time as far as the plot goes.
did-not-finish
September 8, 2022The writing in this was chaotic, yet overly simple. I wish Lana would take longer to write books and get better/more beta readers, as I feel like she has the potential to be a good writer. But she's just not there yet.
August 30, 2022
3.5 ⭐️: I love this series and I enjoyed the story, but the writing felt a little off and the story seemed to drag on. I was really interested at first, but the middle of the book felt repetetive.
June 29, 2023
WOAH. to say i am shocked by how many people DNF or disliked this book is baffling to me because i LOVED it. In this Sweet Omegaverse series, I've read all of Lana Koles books. The first one was great, i loved it. The second one was a miss for me. but this one was another hit! A lot of people complained about Nics and Griffs relationship, and maybe its because i love m/m and read m/m books as well but i was fine with how close they were. that they almost had a separate romance. Some people complained like they felt the FL wasnt the center, but i disagree. i still found her to be the center, the males around her are just all Bi XD. Griff may be obsessed with Nic, but his relationship with Wendy would have been the same with or without him being in love with Nic. thats just their relationship. sarcasm is them flirting. I thought this was really nice. I like that her issues didnt immediately get cured and they popped up at appropriate times too. I wish there was more revenge/justice/karma for her old pack, like getting the POLICE involved but they didnt come out unscathed either so i'll take it. The sex scenes are actually pretty long for what im used to. thankfully they are written well. Also, there arent any stupid moments *happy tear*. For example, like one of the main characters running away or leaving secretly all in the name of protecting their loved ones or some crap. They face everything together and there are no secrets kept from the FL to 'protect' her either. I liked the straightforwardness and honesty all around. only relationship drama came from Nic and Griff because they are Ex's and there is regret and guilt involved with their situation.
ANYWAY. if you enjoy m/m and individual relationships within the reverse harem (dont worry they all love and are involved with wendy) then this is a good book for you! try it out!
ANYWAY. if you enjoy m/m and individual relationships within the reverse harem (dont worry they all love and are involved with wendy) then this is a good book for you! try it out!
January 20, 2023
3.25⭐️
When Wendy gets caught trying to hide out in Nic’s gym, she’s forced to admit that she’s trying very hard to find a safe place to ride out her heat until she can find a more permanent solution to never going back to the pack she’s left behind. Little does she know; they’re not going to let her leave them so easily and Nic has a lot cut out for him to keep her safe. With the help of his neighbors, a lot of blankets, and one adorable cat named Knuckles, both Wendy and Nic will have to confront both of their pasts as they go through the omega’s heat together.
This was not one of my favorites from this series and I think it has to do with the author’s writing style. I really appreciate the topics that the author brings to this series, and it provides for an opportunity for people to really see a wide range of emotional and physical situations individuals can be put into with relationships but even though I can get behind those events and feel the pain the main characters are going through, I just don’t get invested in the new relationships that are developed. The ideas behind the characters are fun but they just never feel fully developed enough for me to get emotionally invested in them. I’m happy they end up together but I’m not swooning like I am in other books from this series. Additionally, idk if it’s because Wendy’s supposed to be this naive omega or what, but it didn’t seem like all the rules of this world that were established in previous books were fully followed in this book. Overall, I think it definitely covered an important topic with the discussions surrounding abusive relationships and consent, but it really wasn’t one of my favorites from this series.
When Wendy gets caught trying to hide out in Nic’s gym, she’s forced to admit that she’s trying very hard to find a safe place to ride out her heat until she can find a more permanent solution to never going back to the pack she’s left behind. Little does she know; they’re not going to let her leave them so easily and Nic has a lot cut out for him to keep her safe. With the help of his neighbors, a lot of blankets, and one adorable cat named Knuckles, both Wendy and Nic will have to confront both of their pasts as they go through the omega’s heat together.
This was not one of my favorites from this series and I think it has to do with the author’s writing style. I really appreciate the topics that the author brings to this series, and it provides for an opportunity for people to really see a wide range of emotional and physical situations individuals can be put into with relationships but even though I can get behind those events and feel the pain the main characters are going through, I just don’t get invested in the new relationships that are developed. The ideas behind the characters are fun but they just never feel fully developed enough for me to get emotionally invested in them. I’m happy they end up together but I’m not swooning like I am in other books from this series. Additionally, idk if it’s because Wendy’s supposed to be this naive omega or what, but it didn’t seem like all the rules of this world that were established in previous books were fully followed in this book. Overall, I think it definitely covered an important topic with the discussions surrounding abusive relationships and consent, but it really wasn’t one of my favorites from this series.
November 8, 2024
3.5 🌟
In the first 25% of this, i was so hooked, i couldn't stop reading because it was so wholesome and funny and cute and the tension was good. By the 31% mark, the pacing has started to slow a bit but it was still cute because it was focused on the relationship development and the dynamics between the characters which i personally enjoyed and loved all of them. But from the get go, i had developed a soft spot for Nic, our consent soft fluffy king. Arlo and Tate were also so stinking cute and adorable and understanding, clearly fictional!
Now i do enjoy omegaverse that is more centered around the female character and focuses more on the dynamic centering her around the other male characters of the story but i did enjoy the fact that the focus shifted when development needed and that we didn't only get a focus solemnly on Wendy but also Nic who is a beta but i wished that, since the author chose this approach, to have equal focus on each of the characters, like this, the reader wouldn't feel detached or disconnected from the other characters. I wanted more of Arlo x Wendy x Tate and separately wanted some more development for Wendy x Griffith and that was my only issue!!
the rest was so fun and so good, it had me laughing at times and giggling at times, the ending felt a little rushed but i didn't mind it much.
P.S: I've seen some of the reviews for this and kinda felt like i didn't read the same book because most of them are 1 or 2 stars, but then again, reading is subjective, we like what we like. Also, this single-handedly got me out of a reading slump.
In the first 25% of this, i was so hooked, i couldn't stop reading because it was so wholesome and funny and cute and the tension was good. By the 31% mark, the pacing has started to slow a bit but it was still cute because it was focused on the relationship development and the dynamics between the characters which i personally enjoyed and loved all of them. But from the get go, i had developed a soft spot for Nic, our consent soft fluffy king. Arlo and Tate were also so stinking cute and adorable and understanding, clearly fictional!
Now i do enjoy omegaverse that is more centered around the female character and focuses more on the dynamic centering her around the other male characters of the story but i did enjoy the fact that the focus shifted when development needed and that we didn't only get a focus solemnly on Wendy but also Nic who is a beta but i wished that, since the author chose this approach, to have equal focus on each of the characters, like this, the reader wouldn't feel detached or disconnected from the other characters. I wanted more of Arlo x Wendy x Tate and separately wanted some more development for Wendy x Griffith and that was my only issue!!
the rest was so fun and so good, it had me laughing at times and giggling at times, the ending felt a little rushed but i didn't mind it much.
P.S: I've seen some of the reviews for this and kinda felt like i didn't read the same book because most of them are 1 or 2 stars, but then again, reading is subjective, we like what we like. Also, this single-handedly got me out of a reading slump.
September 26, 2022
Wendy chose poorly. Young and naive, she was swept away by the attention of the most sought-after pack on campus. They looked like a golden pack but behind closed doors, her pack wasn't nearly as shiny. Controlling, abusive, and determined to mark her, Wendy's life was one of fear. When the pack leader marked her against her wishes and they took her birth control away before her heat, Wendy grabbed her cat and ran. Discovered breaking into his gym for the night, Nic took Wendy home with him. One night led to a connection and turned into a rushed escape with his next-door neighbors in tow to his ex's house in order to keep Wendy safe from her former pack.
Lana Cole is one of my favorite Sweetverse authors and this book is well-written and entertaining but it doesn't rank with her other books with me. I love M/M but I need the female to be the heart and center of the pack and the other relationships to be secondary. Instead, the men are all each others'"love of my life" lovers. She is no one's first choice, except maybe her cats. The men loved her and enjoyed her but their male mates came first. She wasn't vital to their happiness. Of course, Wendy didn't mind or even notice since they allowed her to choose her own clothes, make noise, and were all nice guys. This may have made her happy but unfortunately wasn't enough for me.
Lana Cole is one of my favorite Sweetverse authors and this book is well-written and entertaining but it doesn't rank with her other books with me. I love M/M but I need the female to be the heart and center of the pack and the other relationships to be secondary. Instead, the men are all each others'"love of my life" lovers. She is no one's first choice, except maybe her cats. The men loved her and enjoyed her but their male mates came first. She wasn't vital to their happiness. Of course, Wendy didn't mind or even notice since they allowed her to choose her own clothes, make noise, and were all nice guys. This may have made her happy but unfortunately wasn't enough for me.
September 17, 2022
My hopes were so high for this one because the Sweetverse is my absolute favorite, but All Packed Up fell a little short for me. I liked it, but it could have been so much better. It’s a chunky book, so in theory there should have been more than enough time to develop all the characters and their intricate relationships. Instead, a lot of the time is spent reiterating Nic & Griffith’s miscommunication of a past that actually isn’t complicated at all. I also felt like Wendy wasn’t as appreciated as she could have been by everyone except Nic, but especially by Grif. She was very much adored & protected for being an omega, but it could have (and should have, in my opinion) been so much more).
That said, I did like the book. It was very sweet. Nic and all the alphas were very kind and protective. And Grif taking Wendy shopping was such a highlight. I also enjoyed seeing a couple of the characters from Fighting Instincts make little appearances. And the steam was very much an A+. And I didn’t roll my eyes at cheesiness or super stiff dialogue or anything. Plus, I am very pleased with how they all ended up, everything coming beautifully full circle.
So I’d say I’m right in the middle on this one. 3 stars. I liked it, but would have loved to have loved it.
That said, I did like the book. It was very sweet. Nic and all the alphas were very kind and protective. And Grif taking Wendy shopping was such a highlight. I also enjoyed seeing a couple of the characters from Fighting Instincts make little appearances. And the steam was very much an A+. And I didn’t roll my eyes at cheesiness or super stiff dialogue or anything. Plus, I am very pleased with how they all ended up, everything coming beautifully full circle.
So I’d say I’m right in the middle on this one. 3 stars. I liked it, but would have loved to have loved it.
September 22, 2022
The pack she deserves
Another great book in the sweetverse series. It was interesting to see an omega in this series that wasn't initially cherished by her pack. It really expanded the universe and the way omegas are treated. Nic and Wendy have the best "how I met your mother" story 😂 the author does a great job of showing the emotional sides of her characters and the way they work through their pain, trauma, and guilt. The slight bickering and teasing the characters did made for some adorable fluff 🥰 It was also nice as to see a small cameo from characters from another book in the series.
Wendy is an Omega on the run with her heat just days away from hitting. She ends up breaking into a gym, right before Nic closes up and leaves for the night. Being a super nice guy he offers her a place to stay and protection. Nic's neighbors Arlo and Tate end up helping Nic take care of Wendy. When Wendy's abusive pack gets to close for comfort, the group leaves to find safety in Griffiths home. Which happens to be Nic's ex. This slightly eccentric group has to learn to get along and does their best to take care of each other. Definitely ends in a happily ever after.
Another great book in the sweetverse series. It was interesting to see an omega in this series that wasn't initially cherished by her pack. It really expanded the universe and the way omegas are treated. Nic and Wendy have the best "how I met your mother" story 😂 the author does a great job of showing the emotional sides of her characters and the way they work through their pain, trauma, and guilt. The slight bickering and teasing the characters did made for some adorable fluff 🥰 It was also nice as to see a small cameo from characters from another book in the series.
Wendy is an Omega on the run with her heat just days away from hitting. She ends up breaking into a gym, right before Nic closes up and leaves for the night. Being a super nice guy he offers her a place to stay and protection. Nic's neighbors Arlo and Tate end up helping Nic take care of Wendy. When Wendy's abusive pack gets to close for comfort, the group leaves to find safety in Griffiths home. Which happens to be Nic's ex. This slightly eccentric group has to learn to get along and does their best to take care of each other. Definitely ends in a happily ever after.
March 20, 2025
This book gave me Nesta’s book from ACOTAR vibes - hear me out - in the way that it was basically a slow journey in inner healing and quieting that nasty voice in your head that says that you’re not worth shit… with A++ smutty scenes throughout the book, of course. Chefs kiss.
It did focus a lot on the relationship between what’s-his-face and the other one, but from the FMC’s pov. Almost like she wanted to (or needed to) fix things between those two in order to help heal herself. Like when the cat distribution system chooses you when you’re at your lowest, and in feeding that little shivering ball of skinny dirty mutt you somehow find peace in yourself as well. Caring for others will do that to ya.
Anyway, all that to say, YES PLEASE.
This book is clearly diving the audience, and I think you have to been a certain kind of broken to appreciate it.
The author is a plot genius, if maybe a little wet behind the ears in terms of writing style (or maybe I just hate 3rd person perspective). But I am so excited to see the author grow. This was my first book I read by them, and you can consider me an official fan! Let’s goooooo
It did focus a lot on the relationship between what’s-his-face and the other one, but from the FMC’s pov. Almost like she wanted to (or needed to) fix things between those two in order to help heal herself. Like when the cat distribution system chooses you when you’re at your lowest, and in feeding that little shivering ball of skinny dirty mutt you somehow find peace in yourself as well. Caring for others will do that to ya.
Anyway, all that to say, YES PLEASE.
This book is clearly diving the audience, and I think you have to been a certain kind of broken to appreciate it.
The author is a plot genius, if maybe a little wet behind the ears in terms of writing style (or maybe I just hate 3rd person perspective). But I am so excited to see the author grow. This was my first book I read by them, and you can consider me an official fan! Let’s goooooo
February 20, 2023
This was my second Lana Kole, my first being her Lyric book earlier in the series. I anticipated that this book, similar to that first that I read, would be sugary sweet with enough plot to keep me engaged and some different ways of the pack forming, rather than the FMC coming into an already formed pack. That is absolutely what I got, and I think this one is better and more developed than Lyric's book (though I did very much enjoy that one too!) All our main characters are unique and developed with believable but engaging backstories. The sugary-sweet parts of this series' title name Sweetverse are lovely and well balanced with some darker themes, emotions, and sometimes bickering. My main critique is that is is a bit long. This is really a splitting hairs critique because with an RH/omegaverse, you want to have enough time to develop all the relationships, but I would have liked it ever more if it wrapped up a bit sooner.
Overall, highly recommend! I will continue reading this series and pick up more for Lana Kole.
Overall, highly recommend! I will continue reading this series and pick up more for Lana Kole.
April 3, 2023
I struggled through this one. The POV was a bit clunky and unclear in places, and I had a hard time connecting with or getting invested in the characters.
I generally prefer for why choose stories to be polyamorous, I like having all of the characters woven together more-so than just feeling like they’re putting up with each other for the fmc’s benefit. And while I enjoyed both mm relationships in this mmfmm, at times it felt like the fmc was just a plot device to further/fix the relationship between Nic and Griffith and it was an uncomfortable dynamic for me. Arlo and Tate’s relationship felt a bit more organic, and I liked the emphasis on them being complete before her and still loving/wanting her.
There was also a lot of thematic emphasis on Wendy being in control during almost all of their intimate scenes due to her own traumatic experiences. While it was completely understandable, it is not a dynamic I enjoy in omegaverse, and I found myself skimming a lot if the steamier scenes.
I generally prefer for why choose stories to be polyamorous, I like having all of the characters woven together more-so than just feeling like they’re putting up with each other for the fmc’s benefit. And while I enjoyed both mm relationships in this mmfmm, at times it felt like the fmc was just a plot device to further/fix the relationship between Nic and Griffith and it was an uncomfortable dynamic for me. Arlo and Tate’s relationship felt a bit more organic, and I liked the emphasis on them being complete before her and still loving/wanting her.
There was also a lot of thematic emphasis on Wendy being in control during almost all of their intimate scenes due to her own traumatic experiences. While it was completely understandable, it is not a dynamic I enjoy in omegaverse, and I found myself skimming a lot if the steamier scenes.
August 25, 2022
I am floored by this book. It is amazing. I have read several books from the author and this far exceeded expectations I didn't know I had but where there.
This book is subtly extremely inclusive to all types of relationships and represents them really well. I feel like every character is really well written, each with their own personalities and what they bring to the table. Even our characters that are bonded going in to where we start the story really are unique to their own even though they are a bonded pair.
This story is emotional. I got teary eyed often. Some parts were hard to read in that aspect. I think there is also a good counter point of humor throughout that brings levity without dismissing what is heartbreaking.
This book is steam and spice and everything nice, centered around an omega going through heat.
I loved the throwbacks to other books in the series and they brought smiles to my face.
It is also a pretty hunkin' book where the ending left me fully satisfied with the story.
This book is subtly extremely inclusive to all types of relationships and represents them really well. I feel like every character is really well written, each with their own personalities and what they bring to the table. Even our characters that are bonded going in to where we start the story really are unique to their own even though they are a bonded pair.
This story is emotional. I got teary eyed often. Some parts were hard to read in that aspect. I think there is also a good counter point of humor throughout that brings levity without dismissing what is heartbreaking.
This book is steam and spice and everything nice, centered around an omega going through heat.
I loved the throwbacks to other books in the series and they brought smiles to my face.
It is also a pretty hunkin' book where the ending left me fully satisfied with the story.
March 28, 2024
I don’t really know how to feel about this one but 4 stars seemed appropriate idk
chemistry wise:
- romantic
wendy and nic ✔️
tate and arlo ✔️
griffith and nic ✔️
- not rlly romantic but there is tension
griffith and wendy ✔️
griffith and arlo ✔️
nic and tate&arlo ✔️
I really wanted griffith and arlo’s story to pop more, and I wanted a better ending for wendy and griffith’s story. But honestly? It was a good book. I don’t mind if books are omega centric or not, so long the story makes a bit of sense and it does. Love how we went from wendy running away to meeting nic, tate and arlo. The fear and trauma wendy had carried throughout the book, albeit annoying, was necessary. I actually LOVE nic and griffith’s story. It was really refreshing and angsty, not to fill my cup of angst but enough to make me read it through. Tate and arlo were a fun duo, and it was great that their dynamic was already set and not explained as much, since the focus was more onto wendy, nic and griffith.
Solid book, but omg it was TOO LONG
chemistry wise:
- romantic
wendy and nic ✔️
tate and arlo ✔️
griffith and nic ✔️
- not rlly romantic but there is tension
griffith and wendy ✔️
griffith and arlo ✔️
nic and tate&arlo ✔️
I really wanted griffith and arlo’s story to pop more, and I wanted a better ending for wendy and griffith’s story. But honestly? It was a good book. I don’t mind if books are omega centric or not, so long the story makes a bit of sense and it does. Love how we went from wendy running away to meeting nic, tate and arlo. The fear and trauma wendy had carried throughout the book, albeit annoying, was necessary. I actually LOVE nic and griffith’s story. It was really refreshing and angsty, not to fill my cup of angst but enough to make me read it through. Tate and arlo were a fun duo, and it was great that their dynamic was already set and not explained as much, since the focus was more onto wendy, nic and griffith.
Solid book, but omg it was TOO LONG
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2022
I was so excited to finally get to know Nic and his story and what a story. Nic is just the sweetest Beta and his own worst enemy when it comes to emotions. But then the sassy Omega breaks in to his gym and makes his life topsy turvy. Grif, the Alpha from Nic's past, is just as bad as Nic but his relationship with Wendy is just hilarious. They bicker like an old married couple and I was so there for it. Then there are the stoners - the adorable Alpha bonded pair that brought just the right amount of wise and lightness to balance this pack out.
Wendy is on the run from her pack. She made a mistake when she was younger and chose wrong. Instead of feeling cherished she's the victim of abuse. When she runs into Nic she gets a glimpse of what life could have been and the way her relationship with the beta and alphas grow is just beautiful to see. I loved this book and think it's just a great add to the Sweetverse.
Wendy is on the run from her pack. She made a mistake when she was younger and chose wrong. Instead of feeling cherished she's the victim of abuse. When she runs into Nic she gets a glimpse of what life could have been and the way her relationship with the beta and alphas grow is just beautiful to see. I loved this book and think it's just a great add to the Sweetverse.
Read
August 30, 2022Most of the plot stems from emotional drama. POV differs by chapter and covers all of the MCs. In this pack of 5, there's two bonded alphas falling for FMC (Wendy) as well as two estranged guys (alpha/beta) falling for each other (again) and the FMC. Wendy loves cats, which I found endearing as well as descriptive since she's cute and affectionate but also kinda self-absorbed and stubborn. The bonded pair were sweet and supportive, but not really fleshed out. The estranged pair provided most of the drama. The beta (Nic) made a stupid decision a few years ago, which he (Nic) felt was unforgivable, that ended their relationship. Unsurprisingly, the alpha doesn't feel this way and is trying to win Nic back. Besides some flashbacks and brief mentions, Wendy's old pack is not featured much.
September 7, 2022
Holy Sweetverse, I cannot get enough of this universe!
Wendy is a sweet Omega who has been mistreated by her pack Alphas. In a moment of desperation she flees and finds herself in the closed gym of Nic. He gives her a safe space to stay for a few days and one thing leads to another and Wendy ends up meeting several other Alphas and Beta’s who are determined to help the sweet Wendy through her heat and ensure she stays safe, despite the claiming bite on her neck.
I did feel like this book was very M/F with Wendy and Nic and then Nic's ex, Griffin was introduced followed by two others. If you are nit-picking it leans ore toward Poly than RH but I still really enjoyed it.
Romantic, sexy and fun. A perfect read for an Omegaverse Whore such as myself!
Wendy is a sweet Omega who has been mistreated by her pack Alphas. In a moment of desperation she flees and finds herself in the closed gym of Nic. He gives her a safe space to stay for a few days and one thing leads to another and Wendy ends up meeting several other Alphas and Beta’s who are determined to help the sweet Wendy through her heat and ensure she stays safe, despite the claiming bite on her neck.
I did feel like this book was very M/F with Wendy and Nic and then Nic's ex, Griffin was introduced followed by two others. If you are nit-picking it leans ore toward Poly than RH but I still really enjoyed it.
Romantic, sexy and fun. A perfect read for an Omegaverse Whore such as myself!
November 29, 2022
all packed up
I love a good omegaverse even more so with interesting characters that don’t fit the mold. My drawback is the lack of depth and story with fmc’s old pack. You only get info on Derek and that’s bc he bit her. There are still other culpable pack mates that you don’t get a lot of info or depth, for that reason, the climax and resolution fell flat and rushed. I also would’ve liked to see real depth with the new pack mates. “The stoners” were an afterthought and really all you knew about the bonded pair. You get no other info, what’s the point in unique characters if you don’t follow through and allow your readers a chance to get to know and delve deeper? For this reason, a solid three star read.
I love a good omegaverse even more so with interesting characters that don’t fit the mold. My drawback is the lack of depth and story with fmc’s old pack. You only get info on Derek and that’s bc he bit her. There are still other culpable pack mates that you don’t get a lot of info or depth, for that reason, the climax and resolution fell flat and rushed. I also would’ve liked to see real depth with the new pack mates. “The stoners” were an afterthought and really all you knew about the bonded pair. You get no other info, what’s the point in unique characters if you don’t follow through and allow your readers a chance to get to know and delve deeper? For this reason, a solid three star read.
May 17, 2023
3 stars. I liked it but I barely cared about Wendy. I liked her just fine- But I was honestly allllll in this for Nic and Grif. Tate and Arlo were lovely and sweet. But I felt like I was just itching for them to get back to Nic and Grif’s connection.
I would read a wholeeeee book about their story. Fighting and fuckin and getting caught by the lawwwww then making their way back to each other. THAT was the storyline for me.
I was bummed out the confrontation with the Sterling Pack was so quick. Since it was built up. Oh and I wanted more Stellan and his pack. 5 sure. More of them. **I am now learning that the book before this that is don’t know existed before now is about Stellan and his pack??**
My request is simple- a Nic and Grif prequel. Sign me up
I would read a wholeeeee book about their story. Fighting and fuckin and getting caught by the lawwwww then making their way back to each other. THAT was the storyline for me.
I was bummed out the confrontation with the Sterling Pack was so quick. Since it was built up. Oh and I wanted more Stellan and his pack. 5 sure. More of them. **I am now learning that the book before this that is don’t know existed before now is about Stellan and his pack??**
My request is simple- a Nic and Grif prequel. Sign me up
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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