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The San Francisco Omegas #3
Always Hiding
Do they love me? Or the mask I wear?
Madeline Zhao has done whatever it takes to survive. After being abandoned by her parents and raised by her older brother she puts on a cheerful, bubbly front to the world. But with that front comes anxiety and paranoia. What if she wasn't so cheerful and bubbly? Would she still be surrounded by the people she loves? One day, when Madeline is at work, she overhears that the San Francisco Omega academy is not truly acting in the best interest of their charges. Will she be able to shed the skin of the affable young woman and stand up for those who can't stand up for themselves?
Pack Carter has everything going for them. They are successful, wealthy, and overall happy. Adair the politician, Marcus the lawyer, and Rio the business owner aren't ready for the beta with sad eyes to fall into their lives. Will they be up for the challenges that Madeline presents to them? Or will Madeline have to hide behind her facade forever?
This is an MMFM reverse harem omegaverse tale and is book three of the San Francisco Omegas series of interconnected standalones. There will be no omega in this harem as the harem features three alphas and a beta who just wants love and connection. While Eloise's book features a mafia story and Tibby's story was an FBI-style story, Madeline's will heavily feature politics and a political election. This book is 18+ and features sexual situations not appropriate for children.
Madeline Zhao has done whatever it takes to survive. After being abandoned by her parents and raised by her older brother she puts on a cheerful, bubbly front to the world. But with that front comes anxiety and paranoia. What if she wasn't so cheerful and bubbly? Would she still be surrounded by the people she loves? One day, when Madeline is at work, she overhears that the San Francisco Omega academy is not truly acting in the best interest of their charges. Will she be able to shed the skin of the affable young woman and stand up for those who can't stand up for themselves?
Pack Carter has everything going for them. They are successful, wealthy, and overall happy. Adair the politician, Marcus the lawyer, and Rio the business owner aren't ready for the beta with sad eyes to fall into their lives. Will they be up for the challenges that Madeline presents to them? Or will Madeline have to hide behind her facade forever?
This is an MMFM reverse harem omegaverse tale and is book three of the San Francisco Omegas series of interconnected standalones. There will be no omega in this harem as the harem features three alphas and a beta who just wants love and connection. While Eloise's book features a mafia story and Tibby's story was an FBI-style story, Madeline's will heavily feature politics and a political election. This book is 18+ and features sexual situations not appropriate for children.
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First published July 2, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
July 11, 2022
This book was honestly quite disappointing to me - I had been greatly enjoying the slow relationship development between FMC beta Madeleine and the men until about 80%, when Marcus finally made too many assumptions and later had to reconcile with her after a short break. At that point, I got so much whiplash when he !!!!
Similar to the previous two books, there were still editing issues, especially with capitalization of brands and locations - Neosporin, Bandaid, the Bay Area. Although it was much less obvious than the previous two books, it was a little frustrating to not see them fixed. Same with the M/M relationship supposedly between Rio and Adair - it was trotted out conveniently for some smut, but it could have been left out without making a significant difference in plot.
Lastly, while yes, this was a political book as the synopsis suggested, the politics mostly only drove forward the timeline of the book rather than the actual plot. The last 20% was incredibly hectic, and I felt a lot of details about the men were added for a kink factor (e.g. ), and trivial plot devices were introduced to move the relationship along to wrap up the book (e.g. ). Madeleine's spunky independence also disappeared once came into play, and I did not like her emphasis on .
It's unfortunate that the last quarter of the book had wrapped up in this manner as I had been about to rate the book as 4-star until then, and it really left a bad taste and a resistance to check out any of the author's future writing for me. The three books I checked out in the series had all started out well, but the more I read the less enamored I was with the plot pacing and relationship developments.
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Ratings - completed series:
#1 Always Waiting: ★★★☆☆
#2 Always Running: ★★★☆☆
#3 Always Hiding (this book): ★★☆☆☆
Similar to the previous two books, there were still editing issues, especially with capitalization of brands and locations - Neosporin, Bandaid, the Bay Area. Although it was much less obvious than the previous two books, it was a little frustrating to not see them fixed. Same with the M/M relationship supposedly between Rio and Adair - it was trotted out conveniently for some smut, but it could have been left out without making a significant difference in plot.
Lastly, while yes, this was a political book as the synopsis suggested, the politics mostly only drove forward the timeline of the book rather than the actual plot. The last 20% was incredibly hectic, and I felt a lot of details about the men were added for a kink factor (e.g. ), and trivial plot devices were introduced to move the relationship along to wrap up the book (e.g. ). Madeleine's spunky independence also disappeared once came into play, and I did not like her emphasis on .
It's unfortunate that the last quarter of the book had wrapped up in this manner as I had been about to rate the book as 4-star until then, and it really left a bad taste and a resistance to check out any of the author's future writing for me. The three books I checked out in the series had all started out well, but the more I read the less enamored I was with the plot pacing and relationship developments.
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Ratings - completed series:
#1 Always Waiting: ★★★☆☆
#2 Always Running: ★★★☆☆
#3 Always Hiding (this book): ★★☆☆☆
July 4, 2022
This is the third and last book in The San Francisco Omegas series and although there are interconnected characters, it is a standalone. I do recommend that the other two books be read so some references are not missed or overlooked.
This book follows Madeline, a beta who has always felt like she wasn't good enough because she wasn't an Alpha or Omega. She has always hidden away her true self trying to please others. Throughout the course of the story, she becomes involved with a trio of Alphas who try to help her realize just how much she is worth and loved. The relationship between Madeline and her Alphas (Rio, Adair, and Marcus) progresses slowly but has plenty of heat and spice along with some drama. I love how they make this Beta feel special and prove to her that not all Alphas need Omegas in their packs to be happy.
I'm sad to see this series end but I cannot wait for the next one from Calliope!!
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book follows Madeline, a beta who has always felt like she wasn't good enough because she wasn't an Alpha or Omega. She has always hidden away her true self trying to please others. Throughout the course of the story, she becomes involved with a trio of Alphas who try to help her realize just how much she is worth and loved. The relationship between Madeline and her Alphas (Rio, Adair, and Marcus) progresses slowly but has plenty of heat and spice along with some drama. I love how they make this Beta feel special and prove to her that not all Alphas need Omegas in their packs to be happy.
I'm sad to see this series end but I cannot wait for the next one from Calliope!!
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 4, 2022
Good but...
Why can authors not learn how to do apology and grovelling properly. The whole Marcus drama was done well and could have been a fantastic book, but a little chat and a small apology and its all forgiven, i dont think so, it wasnt enough and ruined the remainder of the book for me
Why can authors not learn how to do apology and grovelling properly. The whole Marcus drama was done well and could have been a fantastic book, but a little chat and a small apology and its all forgiven, i dont think so, it wasnt enough and ruined the remainder of the book for me
June 16, 2022
“Always Hiding” is the third, final book in the San Francisco Omegas series. Interestingly, this book features a pack without an omega. I didn’t mind this, but don’t go into it thinking you’re going to get the standard omegaverse fare: nesting, heats, mating frenzy.
Our FMC Madeline is a beta from a prominent alpha family. After her beta reveal her parents kick her out, where she eventually goes on to live with her brother (Eric - from book one) and his pack. Fast forward some years and she’s working at a well-known designer company where she puts together high-fashion outfits for prominent people. She ends up meeting her (future) pack while out clubbing and the rest is history.
Except, it’s not.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: one of my favorite aspects of omegaverse is the building of a pack. I love how the dynamics grow and change and how each member operates to form a cohesive unit. In this pack, you have three alphas who take in Madeline as their beta. Out of the three, one of them, Marcus, absolutely despises betas. He spends the majority of the relationship stewing over his vitriol for betas and never gets Madeline the time of day. Only after the inevitable misunderstanding does he reach out to try to make things right with her and, by extension, the pack.
SPOILERS AT THIS POINT
Madeline’s acceptance, forgiveness and confession of love to Marcus was quite the letdown. He spent most of the book ignoring her, treating her poorly, and accusing her of using his pack, and yet she fell in love with him? It is unrealistic and did not feel real. There should have been more time for the two of them to come to terms with their bonding and more time spent deciding if they wanted to give a relationship a shot. Instead, Madeline accepts his (very brief) apology and immediately wants to mate and bond with him. If I was her other pack mates I would feel so hurt by this.
My other gripe is that this book featured no omega, and as a reader, part of the culture of omegaverse is having an omega ground the pack. Sure, some authors might push the envelope here, but the omega soothing the pack is standard in this genre. I’m this pack there is no omega but there was a baby. A baby who came at the most stressful time of the pack (elections, relationship trouble). Introducing a baby took the focus away from the pack, rather than add to the pack. This should have been a decision they consciously made after winning the election and having Marcus and Madeline agree to being in a pack together.
Overall, while a nice way to end the trilogy, I think this is my least favorite one in the series. A short read if you like omegaverse, but don’t go into it expecting traditional omegaverse concepts.
Our FMC Madeline is a beta from a prominent alpha family. After her beta reveal her parents kick her out, where she eventually goes on to live with her brother (Eric - from book one) and his pack. Fast forward some years and she’s working at a well-known designer company where she puts together high-fashion outfits for prominent people. She ends up meeting her (future) pack while out clubbing and the rest is history.
Except, it’s not.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: one of my favorite aspects of omegaverse is the building of a pack. I love how the dynamics grow and change and how each member operates to form a cohesive unit. In this pack, you have three alphas who take in Madeline as their beta. Out of the three, one of them, Marcus, absolutely despises betas. He spends the majority of the relationship stewing over his vitriol for betas and never gets Madeline the time of day. Only after the inevitable misunderstanding does he reach out to try to make things right with her and, by extension, the pack.
SPOILERS AT THIS POINT
Madeline’s acceptance, forgiveness and confession of love to Marcus was quite the letdown. He spent most of the book ignoring her, treating her poorly, and accusing her of using his pack, and yet she fell in love with him? It is unrealistic and did not feel real. There should have been more time for the two of them to come to terms with their bonding and more time spent deciding if they wanted to give a relationship a shot. Instead, Madeline accepts his (very brief) apology and immediately wants to mate and bond with him. If I was her other pack mates I would feel so hurt by this.
My other gripe is that this book featured no omega, and as a reader, part of the culture of omegaverse is having an omega ground the pack. Sure, some authors might push the envelope here, but the omega soothing the pack is standard in this genre. I’m this pack there is no omega but there was a baby. A baby who came at the most stressful time of the pack (elections, relationship trouble). Introducing a baby took the focus away from the pack, rather than add to the pack. This should have been a decision they consciously made after winning the election and having Marcus and Madeline agree to being in a pack together.
Overall, while a nice way to end the trilogy, I think this is my least favorite one in the series. A short read if you like omegaverse, but don’t go into it expecting traditional omegaverse concepts.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2023
My least favorite of this series and the Seattle series. Madeline’s story was a let down.
She started off as an independent, proud, career driven woman and by the end of the book she was reduced to a walking womb.
I couldn’t understand why Marcus, an attorney, allowed Madeline to be fired for a made up story about misappropriating funds, which ruined her career. I didn’t understand why Madeline didn’t fight that.
Then she inexplicably becomes pregnant despite being on birth control. I actually didn’t understand why they waved off condoms when Rio is in a sexual relationship with Adair and Madeline both. Just because everyone thinks they’re “clean” while having sex in a truck doesn’t mean they shouldn’t take steps to protect each other.
The pacing was terrible. It started off ok, but then Madeline gets pregnant (which she doesn’t notice for 4 months), and immediately bonds with Marcus (with whom she was not in a relationship with before that day), and then three months pass without any relationship development. Supposedly Rio and Adair can’t find time to bond with Madeline in three months? Not one evening was available?
Marcus is presumably over his issues (no therapy needed). Madeline’s parents show up at random, but for no reason… they add nothing to the plot. In fact, it probably would have been better narratively if they didn’t reach out even after Madeline was pregnant and then shot, because Madeline could have dealt with the emotions of one more rejection.
And then in the end she wants to sacrifice herself for her baby, and she has a sketchbook with random sketches of kid’s clothes and a bunch of baby names. Because after 5 or 6 months of being out of work, all she’s done is produce a few sketches and obsess over her baby’s name.
Ick.
She started off as an independent, proud, career driven woman and by the end of the book she was reduced to a walking womb.
I couldn’t understand why Marcus, an attorney, allowed Madeline to be fired for a made up story about misappropriating funds, which ruined her career. I didn’t understand why Madeline didn’t fight that.
Then she inexplicably becomes pregnant despite being on birth control. I actually didn’t understand why they waved off condoms when Rio is in a sexual relationship with Adair and Madeline both. Just because everyone thinks they’re “clean” while having sex in a truck doesn’t mean they shouldn’t take steps to protect each other.
The pacing was terrible. It started off ok, but then Madeline gets pregnant (which she doesn’t notice for 4 months), and immediately bonds with Marcus (with whom she was not in a relationship with before that day), and then three months pass without any relationship development. Supposedly Rio and Adair can’t find time to bond with Madeline in three months? Not one evening was available?
Marcus is presumably over his issues (no therapy needed). Madeline’s parents show up at random, but for no reason… they add nothing to the plot. In fact, it probably would have been better narratively if they didn’t reach out even after Madeline was pregnant and then shot, because Madeline could have dealt with the emotions of one more rejection.
And then in the end she wants to sacrifice herself for her baby, and she has a sketchbook with random sketches of kid’s clothes and a bunch of baby names. Because after 5 or 6 months of being out of work, all she’s done is produce a few sketches and obsess over her baby’s name.
Ick.
June 29, 2022
I loved the bits of Madeline that we got to see in the first two SFOFA Omegas books, but getting her story in her own words was magical! We get more details about her upbringing and how it affects her life today. We get to see beneath the surface and it makes me love her more.
The pack of alphas that are orbiting the beautiful beta are fantastically distinct in both looks and personalities, with virtues and flaws that make them pop on the page. Their interactions with Madeline and each other are both sugar sweet and eye-rollingly dense at times.
The drama is just enough to create tension and suspense, and drive the plot forward, but not so heavy that it weighs the story down. I’m a little sad that the series is done, but each story wrapped up nicely. I’m excited to see what else the author has up her sleeves!
The pack of alphas that are orbiting the beautiful beta are fantastically distinct in both looks and personalities, with virtues and flaws that make them pop on the page. Their interactions with Madeline and each other are both sugar sweet and eye-rollingly dense at times.
The drama is just enough to create tension and suspense, and drive the plot forward, but not so heavy that it weighs the story down. I’m a little sad that the series is done, but each story wrapped up nicely. I’m excited to see what else the author has up her sleeves!
August 6, 2022
4/5
It’s important to know that when I rate a book I don’t rate it on how generally good it is, I rate it on how good I think it is. now obviously different people have different tastes and opinions, I don’t like meddling in the semantics of books so I don’t quite care much for any plot holes or punctuation errors so if you’re looking for that, I’m not the reviewer you need.
It’s important to know that when I rate a book I don’t rate it on how generally good it is, I rate it on how good I think it is. now obviously different people have different tastes and opinions, I don’t like meddling in the semantics of books so I don’t quite care much for any plot holes or punctuation errors so if you’re looking for that, I’m not the reviewer you need.
December 30, 2022
2.9 stars
Trigger/Content Warnings, Tags and Character Ages bellow.
DNF @ 82% - obviously my review only pertains to the portion of the book I did read. For me it got to a point that there was nothing that could have happened to change my rating to anything higher that what it is. I still want to try the other books in the series, but this one wasn’t for me.
While I did enjoy some of this book, and I LOVED Madeline (she’s a badass who knows her worth and knows how to stand up for herself), for the most part it kinda fell flat for me.
The romance/relationships weren’t as developed as I would have like them to be, and Marcus’s love confession really came out at left field there, especially because he spent all the time till that point complaining about how he didn’t like or trust her, I would have liked a little more grovelling.
All that on top of the accidental pregnancy trope and this book just was not hit (I am aware that there was a trigger for pregnancy, but given one of the other characters was pregnant as well, I wasn’t expecting it, would have liked that to have been clarified).
Character Ages - Madeline - 24 | Adair - 33 | Rio - mid 30’s | Marcus - mid 30’s
Tags - omegaverse, why choose (mfmm) ⚔️, multi POV, age gap, knotting, double penetration, light praise, pierced 🍆.
TW/CW - explicit sexual content, prejudice, child abuse, bulling, abandonment, gun violence, attempted SA, drugging, accidental pregnancy, arson, attempted child trafficking, tampering with birth control (minor character), politics, violence.
If you think I’ve missed any TW please comment them, thank you.
Trigger/Content Warnings, Tags and Character Ages bellow.
DNF @ 82% - obviously my review only pertains to the portion of the book I did read. For me it got to a point that there was nothing that could have happened to change my rating to anything higher that what it is. I still want to try the other books in the series, but this one wasn’t for me.
While I did enjoy some of this book, and I LOVED Madeline (she’s a badass who knows her worth and knows how to stand up for herself), for the most part it kinda fell flat for me.
The romance/relationships weren’t as developed as I would have like them to be, and Marcus’s love confession really came out at left field there, especially because he spent all the time till that point complaining about how he didn’t like or trust her, I would have liked a little more grovelling.
All that on top of the accidental pregnancy trope and this book just was not hit (I am aware that there was a trigger for pregnancy, but given one of the other characters was pregnant as well, I wasn’t expecting it, would have liked that to have been clarified).
Character Ages - Madeline - 24 | Adair - 33 | Rio - mid 30’s | Marcus - mid 30’s
Tags - omegaverse, why choose (mfmm) ⚔️, multi POV, age gap, knotting, double penetration, light praise, pierced 🍆.
TW/CW - explicit sexual content, prejudice, child abuse, bulling, abandonment, gun violence, attempted SA, drugging, accidental pregnancy, arson, attempted child trafficking, tampering with birth control (minor character), politics, violence.
If you think I’ve missed any TW please comment them, thank you.
November 2, 2023
I have such a weird relationship with this series. The characters are likable, and I appreciate the story that is written, but in this instalment specifically, a lot of it is skipped over and happening off page... The introduction of the packs should have been an important on page development, same with the Adar's beta stylist that is both introduced and dealt with mostly off page. The is potential for interesting conflict that amounts to nothing...it gives the feeling that the author thought of the story and the concept of those three books being a mafia story, a thriller and a political story, but without the desire to write it...only liking certain scenes, and going through a painful process of filling the rest just so it would be passable as a complete book...
January 31, 2023
Sadly, disappointing. I wanted to love this one. But I just didn't.
It felt rather superficial, the relationships never fully developed. It made the sudden declaration of love from a certain alpha seem so out of the blue. I was like, really? They've barely interacted on the page!
The thing about me is that when I see an Asian protagonist in a genre I enjoy, that typically doesn't have a lot of BIPOC rep, I will read it. Unfortunately, this isn't one I particularly enjoyed. Alas, onto the next read.
It felt rather superficial, the relationships never fully developed. It made the sudden declaration of love from a certain alpha seem so out of the blue. I was like, really? They've barely interacted on the page!
The thing about me is that when I see an Asian protagonist in a genre I enjoy, that typically doesn't have a lot of BIPOC rep, I will read it. Unfortunately, this isn't one I particularly enjoyed. Alas, onto the next read.
June 14, 2022
**Please note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.** So, because this book isn't officially out now, there will be no spoilers. I will try to state my opinion as generally as possible. Maybe when the book is out, I will come back and add an addition.
I know, I could have waited a little longer with writing a review, but I'm that kind of reader, that has to write it, when all the emotions and impressions are quite fresh. Though, I don't think this series is one, I will ever forget. It's one of my favorites.
I really love Calliope Stewart's Omegaverse. I have read Always Waiting and Always Running, and I was excited about Madeline's story, of course, too. Not only, because she is a Beta. But I was interested in Madeline as a person.
Calliope is able to write quite the interesting characters, with depth and emotions. And she did it here too. Though, I have to say, I kind of loved the other two stories more. I don't know why, but something didn't add up for me in the right way. And because I promised not to spoiler, I can't really give pointers anyway.
But it still is a lovely and strong story. I liked the characters, though I had my initial issues with Marcus, one of the guys. Though, yet again, I do understand his thinking and behavior. It's as always not everything black and white. There is a lot of gray too. But okay.
I'm kind of sad, that the San Francisco Omegas are over now. At least, I think they are over, because there isn't a next character in line. Though, Calliope announced a new Omegaverse series, The Seattle Omegas, which I'm excited about too. But it will be still different after a long time with Eloise, Tibby and Madeline.
All characters grew on me, and I loved how we got glimpses of all characters throughout all books. And now, after Madeline's story… I hope there will be still glimpses or maybe a novella? I'm not quite ready, to say goodbye completely.
Otherwise, I'm not satisfied with the ending in this one. I mean, the happy end for Madeline and her guys is perfect. I love that. But there are still questions open for me. Things I wished were discussed more. Like what about The San Francisco Omega Academy, and what changes in the end? And the little hint of story for Eloise's grandmother?
But that are only little complaints, if ever. I loved the book, can recommend it. And will be in for the next books of Calliope Stewart. That's for sure. :)
I know, I could have waited a little longer with writing a review, but I'm that kind of reader, that has to write it, when all the emotions and impressions are quite fresh. Though, I don't think this series is one, I will ever forget. It's one of my favorites.
I really love Calliope Stewart's Omegaverse. I have read Always Waiting and Always Running, and I was excited about Madeline's story, of course, too. Not only, because she is a Beta. But I was interested in Madeline as a person.
Calliope is able to write quite the interesting characters, with depth and emotions. And she did it here too. Though, I have to say, I kind of loved the other two stories more. I don't know why, but something didn't add up for me in the right way. And because I promised not to spoiler, I can't really give pointers anyway.
But it still is a lovely and strong story. I liked the characters, though I had my initial issues with Marcus, one of the guys. Though, yet again, I do understand his thinking and behavior. It's as always not everything black and white. There is a lot of gray too. But okay.
I'm kind of sad, that the San Francisco Omegas are over now. At least, I think they are over, because there isn't a next character in line. Though, Calliope announced a new Omegaverse series, The Seattle Omegas, which I'm excited about too. But it will be still different after a long time with Eloise, Tibby and Madeline.
All characters grew on me, and I loved how we got glimpses of all characters throughout all books. And now, after Madeline's story… I hope there will be still glimpses or maybe a novella? I'm not quite ready, to say goodbye completely.
Otherwise, I'm not satisfied with the ending in this one. I mean, the happy end for Madeline and her guys is perfect. I love that. But there are still questions open for me. Things I wished were discussed more. Like what about The San Francisco Omega Academy, and what changes in the end? And the little hint of story for Eloise's grandmother?
But that are only little complaints, if ever. I loved the book, can recommend it. And will be in for the next books of Calliope Stewart. That's for sure. :)
June 29, 2022
* i was a beta reader and got an arc copy*
This is the third book in the san francisco omegas, where we get to meet Madeline.
I really enjoyed the two first books in this series and actually had high hopes for the third one, and it did not disappoint. The fact that we get to see more of tibby and elosie made me so happy, and being able to read more about the friendship the girls have was something i needed. Because they truly deserve being happy.
The alphas are all so amazing, took time to like one of them because of the stick up his ass about betas, i totaly understand his trauma but it made me sad how it put this wall between him and Madeline because they had such a strong chemestry but the moment that wall fell and we got to see them like Madeline had been with her two other alphas, it was worth the wait.
With the other two alphas, the relationship went fast and was such a cute and hot read about them.
The moment she started feeling sick i was screaming for her to be pregnant because i love when the mc get pregnant with her alphas/betas. But in this case its alphas, and how they act around her and how excited they are for the baby was so cute and perfect. There were also moments in this book that made me cry but i wont spoil why.
I loved all of the books in this series, but i have to say that this was my favorite of them.
This is the third book in the san francisco omegas, where we get to meet Madeline.
I really enjoyed the two first books in this series and actually had high hopes for the third one, and it did not disappoint. The fact that we get to see more of tibby and elosie made me so happy, and being able to read more about the friendship the girls have was something i needed. Because they truly deserve being happy.
The alphas are all so amazing, took time to like one of them because of the stick up his ass about betas, i totaly understand his trauma but it made me sad how it put this wall between him and Madeline because they had such a strong chemestry but the moment that wall fell and we got to see them like Madeline had been with her two other alphas, it was worth the wait.
With the other two alphas, the relationship went fast and was such a cute and hot read about them.
The moment she started feeling sick i was screaming for her to be pregnant because i love when the mc get pregnant with her alphas/betas. But in this case its alphas, and how they act around her and how excited they are for the baby was so cute and perfect. There were also moments in this book that made me cry but i wont spoil why.
I loved all of the books in this series, but i have to say that this was my favorite of them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2022
I received an ARC copy of this book and am happily leaving an honest review.
I love The San Francisco Omegas series so much! What a wonderful ending to three great books! To start, I'm so glad we got to still see lots of Tibby and Eloise throughout this book. As interconnected standalones I'm sometimes saddened by the lack of appearance of previous characters but Calliope does not disappoint! You'll still get to see these two throughout Madeline's story.
It was so interesting to watch Madeline feel like she had to censor herself and to get to see both sides of her. The trauma she experienced from her awful parents was so apparent. Watching Rio, Adair, and Marcus break through those walls and watching her grow was beautiful.
As always, the alphas are so lovable! Rio is adorably awkward in the beginning and it's so charming, Adair has that confident swagger, and once Marcus gets over himself *chefs kiss*.
I usually feel pretty neutral about surprise pregnancies, there were definitely lots of tears at this point in the book, and me wanting to yell at some of the main characters to get it together! All was well in the end and Marcus is so wonderful once he pulls his head out of his ass.
Overall, this is a wonderful ending to a great series!
I love The San Francisco Omegas series so much! What a wonderful ending to three great books! To start, I'm so glad we got to still see lots of Tibby and Eloise throughout this book. As interconnected standalones I'm sometimes saddened by the lack of appearance of previous characters but Calliope does not disappoint! You'll still get to see these two throughout Madeline's story.
It was so interesting to watch Madeline feel like she had to censor herself and to get to see both sides of her. The trauma she experienced from her awful parents was so apparent. Watching Rio, Adair, and Marcus break through those walls and watching her grow was beautiful.
As always, the alphas are so lovable! Rio is adorably awkward in the beginning and it's so charming, Adair has that confident swagger, and once Marcus gets over himself *chefs kiss*.
I usually feel pretty neutral about surprise pregnancies, there were definitely lots of tears at this point in the book, and me wanting to yell at some of the main characters to get it together! All was well in the end and Marcus is so wonderful once he pulls his head out of his ass.
Overall, this is a wonderful ending to a great series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2022
Always Hiding is book three of The San Francisco Omegas series is interconnected standalones. It isn’t necessary to read the first two books before this one but I highly recommend it so that you know more of the backgrounds of all the characters.
Madeline is a beta that was always told she wasn’t good enough since she wasn’t an omega or alpha. She always put a smile on her face and showed nothing but her bubbly personality…even if it was a lie. Adair is one of three alphas that make up Pack Carter and is in the middle of his campaign of running for the governor of California. Rio, another alpha, is the owner of a coffee shop and the first to catch Madeline’s eye. Marcus is a lawyer and the third alpha in Pack Carter. He hates anything to do with betas and wants nothing to do with Madeline.
This book has angst, heartbreak, secrets, suspense, twists, drama, romance, and spice. I’ve loved Madeline since book one and couldn’t wait for her story! Im happy to see her finally get her HEA and I can’t wait to see what Calliope brings us next!
Madeline is a beta that was always told she wasn’t good enough since she wasn’t an omega or alpha. She always put a smile on her face and showed nothing but her bubbly personality…even if it was a lie. Adair is one of three alphas that make up Pack Carter and is in the middle of his campaign of running for the governor of California. Rio, another alpha, is the owner of a coffee shop and the first to catch Madeline’s eye. Marcus is a lawyer and the third alpha in Pack Carter. He hates anything to do with betas and wants nothing to do with Madeline.
This book has angst, heartbreak, secrets, suspense, twists, drama, romance, and spice. I’ve loved Madeline since book one and couldn’t wait for her story! Im happy to see her finally get her HEA and I can’t wait to see what Calliope brings us next!
July 2, 2022
This is the last book in the San Francisco omegas series and I was so excited to finally get to read Madeline’s story. I really loved the bits of her character that we saw in the 2 previous books and I was excited to learn about more of her back story. I loved how this book and the characters relationship is so different than the previous 2 books. Madeline is a beta and I really liked the slower pace their relationship progressed at. The trio of alphas in this book were great and I really loved their personalities. Rio and Adair provided a lot of sweet and spicy moments and Marcus brought the drama with all of his hangups. I am also glad we get some closure on the omega academy story line that has appeared over all three books. I truly enjoyed this book, it had plenty of spice drama, humor, and sweet moments that made me want more from this pack. Sad that this is the end of the San Francisco Omega series but I can't wait for the next series from Calliope Stewart.
June 16, 2022
I received an advanced readers copy in exchange for a fair and honest review. All thoughts and opinions remain my own.
First off, this was a delight to read. Calliope Stewart is a wonderful author and really pulls you into the story and the characters head. Madeline (Maddie) Zhao is especially relatable in that she tried so prevent a happy persona, out of fear no one would like her if she shows any negative emotions.
I loved seeing her interactions with Marcus, Adair, and Rio, her three alphas. And the praise? Chefs kiss, beautiful. Overall, a wonderful read. I am sad to see the San Francisco Omegas be over, but look forward to her future works.
First off, this was a delight to read. Calliope Stewart is a wonderful author and really pulls you into the story and the characters head. Madeline (Maddie) Zhao is especially relatable in that she tried so prevent a happy persona, out of fear no one would like her if she shows any negative emotions.
“I didn’t want to stick out like a sore thumb, being myself meant that people would leave me behind. It was easier to be happy, smiling Maddie, rather than Madeline with the stacks upon stacks of issues.”
I loved seeing her interactions with Marcus, Adair, and Rio, her three alphas. And the praise? Chefs kiss, beautiful. Overall, a wonderful read. I am sad to see the San Francisco Omegas be over, but look forward to her future works.
July 9, 2022
⭐️ 4
Another series read 😮💨 I have been a huge fan of this series since I first came across it, and this final book did NOT disappoint.
I really enjoyed Madeline’s story arc, and it reminded me a lot of Lola and the Millionaires in the sense of a beta who needed help in building their self-esteem.
I feel like this series is great for someone who is just getting into the omegaverse world, it’s not super intense with the spice and does a really good job at explaining the omegaverse world in general without it feeling too overwhelming with the world-building
I feel like this would’ve been a 5 star read for me if I had a different reading experience 😅 at times I was super distracted while reading/I was around a lot of people so it didn’t make it the most enjoyable reading experience
I definitely want to reread this one!
Another series read 😮💨 I have been a huge fan of this series since I first came across it, and this final book did NOT disappoint.
I really enjoyed Madeline’s story arc, and it reminded me a lot of Lola and the Millionaires in the sense of a beta who needed help in building their self-esteem.
I feel like this series is great for someone who is just getting into the omegaverse world, it’s not super intense with the spice and does a really good job at explaining the omegaverse world in general without it feeling too overwhelming with the world-building
I feel like this would’ve been a 5 star read for me if I had a different reading experience 😅 at times I was super distracted while reading/I was around a lot of people so it didn’t make it the most enjoyable reading experience
I definitely want to reread this one!
June 23, 2022
This is the final book in the San Francisco Omegas series and it was a nice way to wrap up a fun series. This is omegaverse but there are no omegas in this pack which gave a new dynamic but I did miss some of the fun stuff that comes with omegas like nests and heats. Like the other books in this series there was plenty of spice, action, and surprises that had me finishing this book in a day. I do wish one of the alphas would have come to his senses sooner because we didn’t get a lot of romance with him till the last 25% but I appreciate the realistic approach of not everyone coming together right away. We do get to see the other couples throughout the book which was a nice treat and helped to bring closure to the series.
July 2, 2022
Always Amazing!!
Calliope Stewart keeps hitting it out of the park with these Omegaverse books. This book is about Madeline and what set it apart for me is that she’s a Beta. In a world that seams to value omegas and alphas above betas, it was lovely to see a story about a female beta being the focus of her pack. I loved the way her relationships with Rio and Adair evolved and how her and Marcus butted heads. Especially since they were both victims of designation shaming and didn’t even realize how much they had in common. I loved watching them both find the healing they deserved. This book left me with such a loving warm feeling. Madeline is the absolute best ❤️. Please read trigger warnings.
5/5 ⭐️
3/5 🌶
Calliope Stewart keeps hitting it out of the park with these Omegaverse books. This book is about Madeline and what set it apart for me is that she’s a Beta. In a world that seams to value omegas and alphas above betas, it was lovely to see a story about a female beta being the focus of her pack. I loved the way her relationships with Rio and Adair evolved and how her and Marcus butted heads. Especially since they were both victims of designation shaming and didn’t even realize how much they had in common. I loved watching them both find the healing they deserved. This book left me with such a loving warm feeling. Madeline is the absolute best ❤️. Please read trigger warnings.
5/5 ⭐️
3/5 🌶
May 7, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Always Hiding shifts gears into something softer, more introspective, and a little more subtle—still spicy, but layered with themes of identity and self-worth. Madeline stole my heart with her anxious, people-pleasing mask and her desperate hope to be loved for who she really is. I loved the twist with her not being an omega—it made her struggle to fit into this very defined world hit harder. The political drama was a fresh spin, and Pack Carter? Swoon. Each alpha had his own flavor of charm, and their care for Madeline felt steady and respectful. The book hit just as hard emotionally as Tibby’s, but it gave me all the tender angst and hope I wanted. And that bittersweet question—what if I’m not enough without the mask?—was such a real, aching thread.
Always Hiding shifts gears into something softer, more introspective, and a little more subtle—still spicy, but layered with themes of identity and self-worth. Madeline stole my heart with her anxious, people-pleasing mask and her desperate hope to be loved for who she really is. I loved the twist with her not being an omega—it made her struggle to fit into this very defined world hit harder. The political drama was a fresh spin, and Pack Carter? Swoon. Each alpha had his own flavor of charm, and their care for Madeline felt steady and respectful. The book hit just as hard emotionally as Tibby’s, but it gave me all the tender angst and hope I wanted. And that bittersweet question—what if I’m not enough without the mask?—was such a real, aching thread.
June 18, 2022
This was the final book in the San Francisco Omegas trilogy and it is the story of Madeline, Rio, Adair, and Marcus. Madeline was kicked out by her parents at the age of 12 for being a beta and raise by her brother and his pack. This has left her with issues she has to work through and then she gets drugged in a club but is saved by her future pack. The only hold out on her joining is Marcus who has a difficult past with beta woman specifically due to his mother. Things kind of come to head when Marcus accuses Madeline of being a hanger on and she runs off to Cancun to get away. In the end it all works out and they become a bonded pack and get a HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 21, 2022
I absolutely love this series and getting to see Madeline get her happily ever after got me right in the feels!
The thing I love most about Calliope's books is that even though they are a series, they can be read as standalones. It's always amazing to get to see returning characters, but not necessary to know their stories to enjoy the book.
This Beta\Alpha reverse harem is filled with so many wonderful tropes. Without giving too much away it's got heartache, suspense, family drama, fabulous secrets, protective siblings, and a few good twists and turns. I can't wait for Calliope's next series!
**Please note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
The thing I love most about Calliope's books is that even though they are a series, they can be read as standalones. It's always amazing to get to see returning characters, but not necessary to know their stories to enjoy the book.
This Beta\Alpha reverse harem is filled with so many wonderful tropes. Without giving too much away it's got heartache, suspense, family drama, fabulous secrets, protective siblings, and a few good twists and turns. I can't wait for Calliope's next series!
**Please note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
July 2, 2022
I received an ARC and this is my honest review. I have loved all of Calliope’s books and this one is just the same. I wasn’t sure about a story with just a beta, not that I don’t love those stories but I like when an omega is somewhat involved because I enjoy the heat aspects of OMV books. But Calliope did a great job with this one. She really brought together some great characters. I really enjoyed this book and could not put it down. It’s another great book in this universe.
*****Spoiler:
This is for those who have big issues with this. There is pregnancy in the book that is in a good chunk of it.
*****Spoiler:
This is for those who have big issues with this. There is pregnancy in the book that is in a good chunk of it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2022
A wonderful, suspenseful Adventure!
Madeline's story is one I have been looking forward too. I was not Disappointed!
One Beta so deserving of Love. Rio & Adair are two fantastic Alphas who Cherish her and are able to see beyond her mask that she wears to hide her true self.
Marcus is an Alpha who needs to learn to let his anger and hatred for Beta's go, if he stands a chance to love Madeline.
The book is filled with so many twist and turns. A fantastic Rollercoaster ride filled with Love, Passion, excitement, suspense and Politics. So grab a copy and join the ride! You wont be disappointed!
Madeline's story is one I have been looking forward too. I was not Disappointed!
One Beta so deserving of Love. Rio & Adair are two fantastic Alphas who Cherish her and are able to see beyond her mask that she wears to hide her true self.
Marcus is an Alpha who needs to learn to let his anger and hatred for Beta's go, if he stands a chance to love Madeline.
The book is filled with so many twist and turns. A fantastic Rollercoaster ride filled with Love, Passion, excitement, suspense and Politics. So grab a copy and join the ride! You wont be disappointed!
June 14, 2022
I loved this book! It was soooo good! I really love how all the guys are always different and they have their own team as that they went thru. Of course there's always one is still healing from the past but that just makes the story interesting! I loved Madeline.. she went thru something that no one should have experienced and even though she hasn't worked thru all her issues she doesn't let that stop her and she's just an amazing person! I loved every second of this book! Calliope is a new author for me but she is definitely going to be a one click author for me from now on!❤️❤️
July 3, 2022
A sweet conclusion.
This was definitely a fluffy read, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. As the conclusion to Calliope Stewart’s three book San Francisco Omegas series I felt like it tied everything up with a nice neat bow. Not a lot of angst, not a super deep plot line, but it had good spice. It was definitely worth it for background on Marcus, and the extra goodies about Ellie and Tibby’s packs too. A feel good sweet omegaverse to get me through my week when the world is basically on fire. Definitely will read her next series.
This was definitely a fluffy read, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. As the conclusion to Calliope Stewart’s three book San Francisco Omegas series I felt like it tied everything up with a nice neat bow. Not a lot of angst, not a super deep plot line, but it had good spice. It was definitely worth it for background on Marcus, and the extra goodies about Ellie and Tibby’s packs too. A feel good sweet omegaverse to get me through my week when the world is basically on fire. Definitely will read her next series.
July 18, 2022
I honestly didn't know how Calliope was going to top the other books with Madeline's story. Just wow. It was so good.
So much angst and I loved the twists in the story. I don't know what I expected, but it wasn't that!
Madeline is a fantastic character, so strong and her story hit so many feels
Marcus ... oh my days that guy! Grovelling doesn't begin to describe what he needs to do to make up for his treatment of her.
Madeline's growth to finally show what hides behind that smile is heartwarming.
Loved every book in this series!
So much angst and I loved the twists in the story. I don't know what I expected, but it wasn't that!
Madeline is a fantastic character, so strong and her story hit so many feels
Marcus ... oh my days that guy! Grovelling doesn't begin to describe what he needs to do to make up for his treatment of her.
Madeline's growth to finally show what hides behind that smile is heartwarming.
Loved every book in this series!
May 1, 2024
For starters I did not read this in order. There are 2 other books in the series but this one had the most interesting synopsis in my opinion.
This is your run of the mill reverse harem romance. I did feel like there were some plot holes. Madeline finds out a HUGE scandal and the synopsis made it seem like it would be a major plot line but in actuality it was glossed over in 2 pages. Not saying we need half a book dedicated to the scandal but I was surprised how it was just over with and we got a time skip.
Either way if you need a quick , breezy read this may be for you.
2.5 stars
This is your run of the mill reverse harem romance. I did feel like there were some plot holes. Madeline finds out a HUGE scandal and the synopsis made it seem like it would be a major plot line but in actuality it was glossed over in 2 pages. Not saying we need half a book dedicated to the scandal but I was surprised how it was just over with and we got a time skip.
Either way if you need a quick , breezy read this may be for you.
2.5 stars
June 14, 2022
Always Hiding, The San Francisco Omegas book three by Calliope Stewart is Maddie's story. I'm a huge fan of this series. We've seen Maddie in both the other books in this series. Maddie is a strong, independent FMC. It was great getting to know her Alphas - Rio, Adair, and Marcus. It was great seeing Eloise and Tibby's Packs in he background. Overall a fun, sweet, HEA story.
ARC given for an honest review.
ARC given for an honest review.
June 18, 2022
Loved this book. I had been waiting for Madelines book and I was not disappointed at all. It was well worth the wait. Rio and Adair are perfect for her. Marcus is too but they both have their issues to work through. Loved seeing Tibby and Eloise with their packs. Also love her relationship with Ric. There were some heart-rending parts as well. Chemistry is off the charts. Can't wait for more from this author, absolutely a one click!
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