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Claimed on Labor Day: A Fated for the Holidays Short Novel
The last night of summer smells like smoke.
The annual Labor Day bonfire signals an end, but when shadows rise from the flames, Clara knows the kind of ending they're facing has nothing to do with summer.
Damien is a stranger in town, rough around the edges, and graced with a brooding, feral beauty that both scares and draws Clara.
She's lived a quiet life, until he swept in and claimed her her with a single touch. He's a claim that goes more than skin-deep and comes with darkness, his shadows the hungriest of them all.
Is it a bond forged in fire, dangerous and fated to doom? Or will this be the love that finds them blazing bright as the night ignites all around them?
Claimed on Labor Day is a complete standalone. You don’t need to read the other books in the series to enjoy it, though fun cameos from other characters will pop up along the way.
The annual Labor Day bonfire signals an end, but when shadows rise from the flames, Clara knows the kind of ending they're facing has nothing to do with summer.
Damien is a stranger in town, rough around the edges, and graced with a brooding, feral beauty that both scares and draws Clara.
She's lived a quiet life, until he swept in and claimed her her with a single touch. He's a claim that goes more than skin-deep and comes with darkness, his shadows the hungriest of them all.
Is it a bond forged in fire, dangerous and fated to doom? Or will this be the love that finds them blazing bright as the night ignites all around them?
Claimed on Labor Day is a complete standalone. You don’t need to read the other books in the series to enjoy it, though fun cameos from other characters will pop up along the way.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 31, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
December 15, 2025
Welcome to Magnolia Springs... where magic lives and love always finds a way
I wanna live in Magnolia Springs! Magic is a quiet undercurrent through the lives of everyone there. It's a town where everyone knows everyone else, so when a shadowy stranger arrives just days before their annual Labor Day festival & bonfire all eyes are on him. But Damien's gaze is fixed on Clara, a young woman who seems to live a quiet life, but secretly yearns for a little danger and adventure.
Admittedly, I came at the Fated for the Holidays series a little "sideways." This is technically the first released in the series but it's the third I've read. I must say, however, that these novellas stand on their own quite nicely. There is definitely a shared history among the women of Magnolia Springs, but the books can be read independently with little-to-no spoilers.
There is definitely an element of 'fated mates' at play here, so be prepared for MCs who are drawn together quickly. I would've loved to get more of a sense of Clara and her life in Magnolia Springs before Damien's arrival, but Reina still manages to pack a lot into this novella. The friendship between Clara and Tessa was delightful. Most of the book is from Clara's POV (with just a couple chapters via Damien), and I found her 'voice' captivating, poetic, and heartfelt. It wasn't difficult to believe her acceptance of Damien, danger and all, nor of their fast but pure love. And Damien! He's wounded, fighting tooth and nail to preserve his sense of self, and doesn't believe himself worthy of what Clara is willing to give. They were beautiful together. I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
Final rating: 4.5 stars
I wanna live in Magnolia Springs! Magic is a quiet undercurrent through the lives of everyone there. It's a town where everyone knows everyone else, so when a shadowy stranger arrives just days before their annual Labor Day festival & bonfire all eyes are on him. But Damien's gaze is fixed on Clara, a young woman who seems to live a quiet life, but secretly yearns for a little danger and adventure.
Admittedly, I came at the Fated for the Holidays series a little "sideways." This is technically the first released in the series but it's the third I've read. I must say, however, that these novellas stand on their own quite nicely. There is definitely a shared history among the women of Magnolia Springs, but the books can be read independently with little-to-no spoilers.
There is definitely an element of 'fated mates' at play here, so be prepared for MCs who are drawn together quickly. I would've loved to get more of a sense of Clara and her life in Magnolia Springs before Damien's arrival, but Reina still manages to pack a lot into this novella. The friendship between Clara and Tessa was delightful. Most of the book is from Clara's POV (with just a couple chapters via Damien), and I found her 'voice' captivating, poetic, and heartfelt. It wasn't difficult to believe her acceptance of Damien, danger and all, nor of their fast but pure love. And Damien! He's wounded, fighting tooth and nail to preserve his sense of self, and doesn't believe himself worthy of what Clara is willing to give. They were beautiful together. I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
Final rating: 4.5 stars
February 10, 2026
A fast and steamy holiday romance that focuses on instant attraction and intensity. Simple, quick to read, and best suited for readers who enjoy high-heat short novellas.
February 13, 2026
This book is a standout in the paranormal romance genre. The atmosphere feels thick with tension from the first page. The bonfire scenes create a mood that stays with the reader long after the book ends. Clara is a protagonist with real depth and relatable emotions. Damien brings a sense of mystery that makes his character magnetic. Their connection feels like fate. The shadow elements of the story provide a supernatural layer that adds stakes to the romance. Every chapter has a clear purpose. The pacing is fast. The story flows without any hiccups. It is a story about the power of love during dark times. This book is a great choice for readers who want a mix of fire and passion.
Reading this story brought a sense of comfort and excitement. The bond between the characters is strong. It made me feel the weight of their attraction. The author creates a world where love acts as a lifesaver. I felt a deep connection to the struggle of the characters. The emotional high points of the book stayed on my mind. It is a beautiful experience to see characters find light in the darkness. My heart raced during the more intense moments. The ending left a lasting impression on my mood. This book series is a win for anyone who likes a story with heart. It feels like a warm embrace on a cold night. I want to find the next book in the series immediately.
Reading this story brought a sense of comfort and excitement. The bond between the characters is strong. It made me feel the weight of their attraction. The author creates a world where love acts as a lifesaver. I felt a deep connection to the struggle of the characters. The emotional high points of the book stayed on my mind. It is a beautiful experience to see characters find light in the darkness. My heart raced during the more intense moments. The ending left a lasting impression on my mood. This book series is a win for anyone who likes a story with heart. It feels like a warm embrace on a cold night. I want to find the next book in the series immediately.
February 18, 2026
A Paranormal Romance Story Worth Reading
Claimed on Labor Day by Author Reina Everhart is another engaging paranormal romantic story that I enjoyed reading.
The story about Clara and Damien, who is half man and half wolf, is portrayed in the Author’s unique writing style. They meet during the annual carnival in their county, Magnolia Springs. Clara takes an interest in him because he gives her some helpful tips on being cautious as she arranges the festival. Their initial friendship turns into a romantic relationship, and the author portrays some intense romantic scenes as they develop their relationship.
The plot is realistic and progresses at a steady pace. The encounter between Damien in wolf form and the giant bear, a creature in the story, is well depicted in the middle of the plot. The county sheriff and the elders alike thank Damien for silencing the creature and saving the county folks.
The characters in the story—Clara, Damien, Tessa, Evan, etc.—are well developed. The reader can easily connect and remember them throughout.
The author’s writing style is consistent throughout and is similar to the other books in the series. It gives pleasure to read about Clara and Damien's feelings as their togetherness develops throughout.
In conclusion, Claimed on Labor Day is an entertaining read and does not disappoint readers of the genre if they pick it up.
Claimed on Labor Day by Author Reina Everhart is another engaging paranormal romantic story that I enjoyed reading.
The story about Clara and Damien, who is half man and half wolf, is portrayed in the Author’s unique writing style. They meet during the annual carnival in their county, Magnolia Springs. Clara takes an interest in him because he gives her some helpful tips on being cautious as she arranges the festival. Their initial friendship turns into a romantic relationship, and the author portrays some intense romantic scenes as they develop their relationship.
The plot is realistic and progresses at a steady pace. The encounter between Damien in wolf form and the giant bear, a creature in the story, is well depicted in the middle of the plot. The county sheriff and the elders alike thank Damien for silencing the creature and saving the county folks.
The characters in the story—Clara, Damien, Tessa, Evan, etc.—are well developed. The reader can easily connect and remember them throughout.
The author’s writing style is consistent throughout and is similar to the other books in the series. It gives pleasure to read about Clara and Damien's feelings as their togetherness develops throughout.
In conclusion, Claimed on Labor Day is an entertaining read and does not disappoint readers of the genre if they pick it up.
February 11, 2026
There is something magnetic about a story that begins on the edge of a season ending. The Labor Day bonfire sets the tone immediately, blending nostalgia with an undercurrent of danger that never quite lets up. The atmosphere feels warm and smoky at first, then steadily darker as the shadows begin to mean more than just flickering light.
Clara is easy to root for. Her quiet life makes the intrusion of something supernatural feel even more disruptive, and her curiosity is balanced by a believable sense of caution. Damien carries the weight of mystery well. His presence is intense without being hollow, and the connection between them feels charged from the start.
The fated element is handled with urgency and heat, leaning into the idea that some bonds do not politely ask for permission. Yet there is still emotional depth beneath the attraction. The tension between fear and desire gives the romance its spark, and the supernatural undertones add just enough danger to keep the stakes high.
As a standalone, the story delivers a complete arc while hinting at a larger world beyond its pages. For readers who enjoy short paranormal romances filled with brooding heroes, strong chemistry, and a touch of shadowy intrigue, this offers a satisfying and fiery escape.
Clara is easy to root for. Her quiet life makes the intrusion of something supernatural feel even more disruptive, and her curiosity is balanced by a believable sense of caution. Damien carries the weight of mystery well. His presence is intense without being hollow, and the connection between them feels charged from the start.
The fated element is handled with urgency and heat, leaning into the idea that some bonds do not politely ask for permission. Yet there is still emotional depth beneath the attraction. The tension between fear and desire gives the romance its spark, and the supernatural undertones add just enough danger to keep the stakes high.
As a standalone, the story delivers a complete arc while hinting at a larger world beyond its pages. For readers who enjoy short paranormal romances filled with brooding heroes, strong chemistry, and a touch of shadowy intrigue, this offers a satisfying and fiery escape.
February 19, 2026
Dark Fated and Paranormal
I read Claimed on Labor Day and I enjoyed how it starts with that smoky Labor Day bonfire mood and then quickly turns darker and more supernatural. I liked the mix of small town calm and creeping danger, because it made the romance feel higher-stakes right away. Clara felt easy to connect with. I appreciated that she has a quiet, grounded vibe but still shows curiosity and courage when things get strange.
Damien was the kind of brooding, mysterious MMC I usually expect in paranormal romance, and I thought his intensity worked well with the “fated” bond idea. I felt the shadow element added tension without drowning out the relationship. The story kept me turning pages, and I liked that each chapter felt like it had a purpose.
I thought the pacing was strong for a shorter novel, even if the middle could have used a little more plot movement. The ending pulled everything together and left a satisfying emotional punch. I also liked the extras like the playlist and the way the book hints at a bigger shared world through small cameos.
If you like dark, fated paranormal romance with firelight atmosphere, instant pull, and real emotion under the heat, I think this one is a fun, fast read.
I read Claimed on Labor Day and I enjoyed how it starts with that smoky Labor Day bonfire mood and then quickly turns darker and more supernatural. I liked the mix of small town calm and creeping danger, because it made the romance feel higher-stakes right away. Clara felt easy to connect with. I appreciated that she has a quiet, grounded vibe but still shows curiosity and courage when things get strange.
Damien was the kind of brooding, mysterious MMC I usually expect in paranormal romance, and I thought his intensity worked well with the “fated” bond idea. I felt the shadow element added tension without drowning out the relationship. The story kept me turning pages, and I liked that each chapter felt like it had a purpose.
I thought the pacing was strong for a shorter novel, even if the middle could have used a little more plot movement. The ending pulled everything together and left a satisfying emotional punch. I also liked the extras like the playlist and the way the book hints at a bigger shared world through small cameos.
If you like dark, fated paranormal romance with firelight atmosphere, instant pull, and real emotion under the heat, I think this one is a fun, fast read.
December 31, 2025
"Claimed on Labor Day" was such a delightful and fast-paced read! From the very first page, I was hooked by the chemistry between the main characters. Reina Everhart has a unique way of blending steamy romance with a magical, fated-mates twist that keeps you smiling and turning pages until the very end.
What I loved most was how the story felt both cozy and exciting. The holiday setting added a special charm, making it feel like the perfect escape for a weekend read. The characters were easy to connect with, especially the female lead—strong, witty, and full of heart. Her banter with the male lead felt real and fun, and their connection was undeniable.
Even though it's a short novel, it didn't feel rushed. The plot flowed smoothly, and every chapter added to the build-up of their relationship. There were moments of sweetness, heat, and emotional depth, all wrapped into one.
I highly recommend this book to romance lovers who enjoy holiday magic, steamy moments, and happily-ever-afters. It's a great introduction to Reina Everhart’s world, and I can’t wait to read more from this series.
What I loved most was how the story felt both cozy and exciting. The holiday setting added a special charm, making it feel like the perfect escape for a weekend read. The characters were easy to connect with, especially the female lead—strong, witty, and full of heart. Her banter with the male lead felt real and fun, and their connection was undeniable.
Even though it's a short novel, it didn't feel rushed. The plot flowed smoothly, and every chapter added to the build-up of their relationship. There were moments of sweetness, heat, and emotional depth, all wrapped into one.
I highly recommend this book to romance lovers who enjoy holiday magic, steamy moments, and happily-ever-afters. It's a great introduction to Reina Everhart’s world, and I can’t wait to read more from this series.
January 19, 2026
Claimed on Labor Day has a quiet, magnetic charm that sneaks up on you. Magnolia Springs feels like a place with its own heartbeat, steeped in tradition and just a hint of magic, where the arrival of a stranger is enough to shift the air. Damien’s entrance does exactly that, especially for Clara, who has been living a careful life while secretly craving more.
Clara’s longing feels real and deeply human, and the pull between her and Damien is immediate without feeling hollow. Their connection is fast, yes, but it’s rooted in emotion rather than convenience. Damien’s wounded sense of self adds surprising depth, and Clara’s openness and courage make their bond feel sincere and tender, even at its most intense.
The Labor Day bonfire and end-of-summer atmosphere give the story a gentle urgency, as if this moment matters because it won’t come again. Short but emotionally satisfying, this novella leaves you with that bittersweet feeling of a perfect evening ending too soon—and the desire to return to Magnolia Springs again.
Clara’s longing feels real and deeply human, and the pull between her and Damien is immediate without feeling hollow. Their connection is fast, yes, but it’s rooted in emotion rather than convenience. Damien’s wounded sense of self adds surprising depth, and Clara’s openness and courage make their bond feel sincere and tender, even at its most intense.
The Labor Day bonfire and end-of-summer atmosphere give the story a gentle urgency, as if this moment matters because it won’t come again. Short but emotionally satisfying, this novella leaves you with that bittersweet feeling of a perfect evening ending too soon—and the desire to return to Magnolia Springs again.
February 12, 2026
“Claimed on Labor Day: A Fated for the Holidays Short Novel” by Reina Everhart is a spicy werewolf adjacent contemporary romance. The female main character is twenty-four-year-old Clara. She works in the library. She didn’t finish college and never left her small town as she had meant to do. While she is helping to decorate for the town’s annual Labor Day celebration, she meets a handsome stranger who identifies himself as Damien, who approaches and offers his assistance. Damien appears other-worldly almost from the start; his shadow doesn’t seem quite right. And despite their mutual attraction, he warns her to stay away from him, and to beware of possible danger. Nevertheless, he cannot seem to help but seek her out over and over. The plot takes a while to get going; still, it is an engaging read and a good choice for fans of supernatural romances written in alternating first person point of view.
February 14, 2026
Claimed on Labour Day is part of a series of holiday themed dark fated romances by Reina Everhart. This story is a stand-alone story but it hints at a larger world. Set around a labour day bonfire in Magnolia County, Clara meets Damien, a mysterious and brooding figure with a few secrets. Over the course of the book their two fates are bonded. I enjoyed the opening library scenes.
It is a short read at 250 pages but the pacing is largely good. I would have liked a bit more plot advancement in the middle, but the ending more than made up for it. Additionally, I liked the inclusion of the playlist and the recommended authors at the end. I picked this book up to give a new genre a try. This book is well-written and I like that the series builds on holidays.
For readers who enjoy stories with brooding mysterious MMCs, Claimed will please the dark fates.
It is a short read at 250 pages but the pacing is largely good. I would have liked a bit more plot advancement in the middle, but the ending more than made up for it. Additionally, I liked the inclusion of the playlist and the recommended authors at the end. I picked this book up to give a new genre a try. This book is well-written and I like that the series builds on holidays.
For readers who enjoy stories with brooding mysterious MMCs, Claimed will please the dark fates.
December 9, 2025
So I went in thinking it was just a flirty holiday romance, and got surprised, this is full-on paranormal danger with shadows, curses, and steamy tension. Clara and Damien have this pull that’s impossible to ignore, even if i wish we had more of their backstory. The carnival setting and bonfire scenes were the best parts for me, super visual and moody.
The author’s writing has this smooth rhythm, almost like lyrics, and that playlist idea? Genius. Makes each chapter feel like its own mood. Tbh, I didn’t expect to like that part as much as I did.
Important : this is defintely NOT for young people, there is a clear warning on the content.
The author’s writing has this smooth rhythm, almost like lyrics, and that playlist idea? Genius. Makes each chapter feel like its own mood. Tbh, I didn’t expect to like that part as much as I did.
Important : this is defintely NOT for young people, there is a clear warning on the content.
January 20, 2026
This book is short but it packs a punch. The chemistry between Clara and Damien is instant from the moment they meet near the library. The tension builds up so well leading to the carnival scenes and you can really feel the danger mixing with the romance. I loved that the heroine did not play hard to get for no reason or create unnecessary drama. She felt the bond and went for it which was so refreshing to see. The shadow wolf form was a really cool twist on standard shifters because it added this dark and spooky element to the story that I was not expecting. If you have a free afternoon and want something spicy and sweet this is the perfect choice. You will not regret picking this one up.
February 14, 2026
Claimed on Labor Day by Reina Everhart
I loved the "slow-burn" feel of the atmosphere combined with the "fast-burn" urgency of the romance. Clara’s believable caution balanced against her curiosity made her so easy to root for. Damien is the perfect foil—mysterious and intense. Reina Everhart does a great job of making the supernatural elements feel dangerous rather than just a plot device. The tension between the characters is palpable, and the Labor Day setting adds a unique, nostalgic flavor to the paranormal genre. Highly recommended for fans of brooding heroes and fated mate tropes!
I loved the "slow-burn" feel of the atmosphere combined with the "fast-burn" urgency of the romance. Clara’s believable caution balanced against her curiosity made her so easy to root for. Damien is the perfect foil—mysterious and intense. Reina Everhart does a great job of making the supernatural elements feel dangerous rather than just a plot device. The tension between the characters is palpable, and the Labor Day setting adds a unique, nostalgic flavor to the paranormal genre. Highly recommended for fans of brooding heroes and fated mate tropes!
September 11, 2025
loved it !! love this series !! love Clara and Damien... this is their holiday love story... a fast paced rom/com drama... it's the Labor Day weekend, the end of summer, and the bonfire is tonight... Clara is there and so , is Damien, he's a stranger but not... it's hard to explain but, the chemistry is real or as real as it feels... the banter... the touches... it's so good !!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 6, 2026
A delightfully addictive, fast-paced romance that delivers exactly what it promises—heat, heart, and irresistible fated-mates chemistry in a perfectly bite-sized read. Perfect for readers who love fated mates, holiday-themed romance, and quick yet satisfying love stories, Claimed on Labor Day is a fun, feel-good read that leaves you smiling. A great addition to the Fated for the Holidays series—and absolutely worth five stars.
January 20, 2026
This is just one of the books in this series the author has crafted and I have to say its one of my favorite ones. It is a full story involving paranormal activity, darkness, and Fated mates vibes. Definitely explicit but you can skip through that and not lose the plot (I did). I loved how the town and its people become so real that you wonder what they are doing when your focused on the MC. Great storytelling all around!
December 9, 2025
A fast, fun Labor Day romance with great chemistry! Clara and Damien pull you in right away. The banter is sharp, the tension is delicious, and the holiday bonfire setting gives it that perfect end-of-summer spark. It’s a quick read but engaging from start to finish, with that addictive fated-mates pull and a small-town festival vibe that makes it easy to devour in one sitting.
January 21, 2026
A shifter romance, great for escapism.
Clara is a sweetheart with her gentle ways, living in a town, until brooding, good-looking Damien turns up. I love stories that focus on the Grumpy/sweetheart concept, and this story did not let me down.
This is the second book I've read by this author, and I must say I do like her prose.
This is a shifter romance, great for escapism.
Clara is a sweetheart with her gentle ways, living in a town, until brooding, good-looking Damien turns up. I love stories that focus on the Grumpy/sweetheart concept, and this story did not let me down.
This is the second book I've read by this author, and I must say I do like her prose.
This is a shifter romance, great for escapism.
January 24, 2026
An all consuming love
I absolutely loved this story. The pacing was really good and the story compelling enough that it kept the pages turning. I did pick up on some Stephanie Meyer's vibes for sure 😉 It was a story with so much depth and I felt the power of the love between them. A message about how even in one's darkest moments...love has the power to save u!
I absolutely loved this story. The pacing was really good and the story compelling enough that it kept the pages turning. I did pick up on some Stephanie Meyer's vibes for sure 😉 It was a story with so much depth and I felt the power of the love between them. A message about how even in one's darkest moments...love has the power to save u!
August 31, 2025
I want to take a moment to thank you for picking up my book and stepping into this world I’ve created. Every page, every character, every twist means so much to me—and the fact that you chose to spend your time with them means even more.
September 8, 2025
I liked the idea of centering the story around a Labor Day celebration, which gave it a nice seasonal charm. Even though I didn’t fully connect with the characters, the overall story arc was enjoyable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 20, 2026
If you like surpernatural romance with a fated love trope grab a hot drink, a blanket and enjoy. This book is a nice treat on a weekend after a week of work :)
The main couple are easy to love and I kept reading to know what will happen to their love story
The main couple are easy to love and I kept reading to know what will happen to their love story
January 22, 2026
Amazing!
This story is as beautiful as the cover! Im not surprised this whole series has been amazing! I got to find the next! Would recommend!
This story is as beautiful as the cover! Im not surprised this whole series has been amazing! I got to find the next! Would recommend!
February 12, 2026
If you love small-town settings, found family, and holiday-weekend magic, “Claimed on Labor Day” delivers in spades. Clara is the kind of heroine you root for, smart, stubborn, and soft where it counts, while Damien is the grumpy-with-a-gold-heart match who pushes every button she has (and yours!). The dialogue snaps, the chemistry sizzles without ever drowning out the emotion, and the Labor Day festival backdrop turns every scene into a vibe. No filler, just feelings. I laughed, I swooned, I highlighted half the book.
January 29, 2026
This book is an engaging and memorable read. The storytelling holds your attention from start to finish, and every chapter feels purposeful. The author’s writing is clear and expressive, creating a smooth experience that makes you want to keep turning the pages.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews