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Kaelen
Not yet published
Expected 25 Mar 26He's the Butcher of Boston. And I'm the Omega my father bartered away.
Willow
I am a damaged omega, a political pawn with scars to prove it. When I can, I disappear to the local rescues, working with dogs and horses that are as broken as I am. Anything to distract me from the cage my father keeps me in.
Until he drags me to a meeting that changes everything.
It wasn't a negotiation. It was a sale.
My father offered me to Kaelen Finnegan - head of the Irish Mob - to secure the election. I expected a monster. A terrifying alpha. Instead, I found the one man who might finally set me free.
Kaelen
Since my da passed, I've ruled Boston. I am a ruthless alpha.
I don't do mercy, and I don't do distractions.
Then, a senator arrives on my doorstep with a fiery omega who smells like fate.
When he strikes her, my control snaps. I don't deal in people, but this little omega is staying with me.
Everyone in Boston is about to learn a simple No one touches what is mine.
Kaelen is a dark mafia omegaverse romance featuring an arranged/forced marriage, a possessive, morally grey alpha and omega. A wounded heroine, finding her strength. High heat. HEA.
Willow
I am a damaged omega, a political pawn with scars to prove it. When I can, I disappear to the local rescues, working with dogs and horses that are as broken as I am. Anything to distract me from the cage my father keeps me in.
Until he drags me to a meeting that changes everything.
It wasn't a negotiation. It was a sale.
My father offered me to Kaelen Finnegan - head of the Irish Mob - to secure the election. I expected a monster. A terrifying alpha. Instead, I found the one man who might finally set me free.
Kaelen
Since my da passed, I've ruled Boston. I am a ruthless alpha.
I don't do mercy, and I don't do distractions.
Then, a senator arrives on my doorstep with a fiery omega who smells like fate.
When he strikes her, my control snaps. I don't deal in people, but this little omega is staying with me.
Everyone in Boston is about to learn a simple No one touches what is mine.
Kaelen is a dark mafia omegaverse romance featuring an arranged/forced marriage, a possessive, morally grey alpha and omega. A wounded heroine, finding her strength. High heat. HEA.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 25, 2026
14 people are currently reading
38 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
January 18, 2026
I really hoped for fun when it comes to this book, and it did deliver!!!
I love the found family trope, and I was extremely happy to find it in this book. It’s always so moving to see main characters getting the love they have always deserved.
When it comes to the main characters, I really liked both. Willow was such a strong girl, despite all the things that her dad did to her. Kaelen bought me with how soft he was for Willow, being pretty commanding to his people at the same time. The contrast was great. I wasn’t bothered by the insta love, that’s ov ffs, you need all the insta love you can have!!!
The secondary characters were great too. I can’t wait for the next book!!! The author has been hinting at the MMF romance (Kaelen’s brother Aidan, his boyfriend Torin, and Willow’s bestie Sam), so I’ll be looking forward to it.
I could clearly tell that the author wrote some ov on ao3, because yes, this is exactly what I wanted!!! Nesting was written perfectly, loved everything about heats, bonding, knotting, purring, alpha/omega used so often! Every aspect of omegaverse was perfect. No notes.👌🏼
Why not 5 stars? The book plot wise felt a bit similar to the author’s debut. I’m not saying that everything was repeated, but some of the plot points appeared in both, just in a different setting.
I also didn’t like certain things I’ve already mentioned and quoted at the beginning of my reading (go see my reading activity). Please, for the love of god, do not mention that the mmc had plenty of sex with omegas, betas, and even an alpha. Just no. I also wanted to know how long it has been for him, and I didn’t find that info anywhere. Please, make sure the fmc enjoys her previous sex life (because I wasn’t sure if she did), do not make fmcs lives miserable, they deserve all the best. I am happy that at least she had some experience lol, I can really hope it was great. Am I over dramatic? Probably, but I do not care.
Besides that? I loved everything.
Thank you to Michelle Love for sending me the ARC!!!
CW:
-graphic violence
-torture
-verbal & physical abuse (not between MCs)
-abusive parent
-sick parent (with successful recovery)
-animal abuse (off page, not by MCs)
-kidnapping
-attempted assault/forced mate bond
-dubious content (in the context of an omega’s heat)
Safety:
-safe
-no ow drama/no real om drama (kidnapping and attempted assault by some old asshole)
-no cheating/sharing/3rd act breakup
-HEA
-no virgins, it’s been over a year for the fmc since she last had sex, she only had sex with betas, said those relationships were unfulfilling; no info on the mmc, we only know he had fucked plenty of women (I didn’t appreciate this info, also he didn’t seem to be a manwhore, but again, no mentions of anything more), he has never fucked omega in heat until the fmc
I love the found family trope, and I was extremely happy to find it in this book. It’s always so moving to see main characters getting the love they have always deserved.
When it comes to the main characters, I really liked both. Willow was such a strong girl, despite all the things that her dad did to her. Kaelen bought me with how soft he was for Willow, being pretty commanding to his people at the same time. The contrast was great. I wasn’t bothered by the insta love, that’s ov ffs, you need all the insta love you can have!!!
The secondary characters were great too. I can’t wait for the next book!!! The author has been hinting at the MMF romance (Kaelen’s brother Aidan, his boyfriend Torin, and Willow’s bestie Sam), so I’ll be looking forward to it.
I could clearly tell that the author wrote some ov on ao3, because yes, this is exactly what I wanted!!! Nesting was written perfectly, loved everything about heats, bonding, knotting, purring, alpha/omega used so often! Every aspect of omegaverse was perfect. No notes.👌🏼
Why not 5 stars? The book plot wise felt a bit similar to the author’s debut. I’m not saying that everything was repeated, but some of the plot points appeared in both, just in a different setting.
I also didn’t like certain things I’ve already mentioned and quoted at the beginning of my reading (go see my reading activity). Please, for the love of god, do not mention that the mmc had plenty of sex with omegas, betas, and even an alpha. Just no. I also wanted to know how long it has been for him, and I didn’t find that info anywhere. Please, make sure the fmc enjoys her previous sex life (because I wasn’t sure if she did), do not make fmcs lives miserable, they deserve all the best. I am happy that at least she had some experience lol, I can really hope it was great. Am I over dramatic? Probably, but I do not care.
Besides that? I loved everything.
Thank you to Michelle Love for sending me the ARC!!!
CW:
-graphic violence
-torture
-verbal & physical abuse (not between MCs)
-abusive parent
-sick parent (with successful recovery)
-animal abuse (off page, not by MCs)
-kidnapping
-attempted assault/forced mate bond
-dubious content (in the context of an omega’s heat)
Safety:
-safe
-no ow drama/no real om drama (kidnapping and attempted assault by some old asshole)
-no cheating/sharing/3rd act breakup
-HEA
-no virgins, it’s been over a year for the fmc since she last had sex, she only had sex with betas, said those relationships were unfulfilling; no info on the mmc, we only know he had fucked plenty of women (I didn’t appreciate this info, also he didn’t seem to be a manwhore, but again, no mentions of anything more), he has never fucked omega in heat until the fmc
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 10, 2026
Mafia romance set in the omegaverse world.
Kaelen is the head of this mafia family and is an Alpha.
Willow is an omega being raised by an abusive dad and sick mom.
Kaelen essentially rescues her after her dad tries to sell her to him.
Drama. And all of the spice… lots of spice. Good read, would recommend.
Kaelen is the head of this mafia family and is an Alpha.
Willow is an omega being raised by an abusive dad and sick mom.
Kaelen essentially rescues her after her dad tries to sell her to him.
Drama. And all of the spice… lots of spice. Good read, would recommend.
January 17, 2026
ARC review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kaelen is a gritty, emotionally charged omegaverse romance that blends old-school mob power with fate, found safety, and a fierce sense of possession. From the very first page, the stakes are clear: Willow isn’t just overlooked—she’s been used. And watching her story shift from captivity to choice is deeply satisfying.
Willow is a wounded but resilient omega, and her love for broken animals mirrors her own quiet hope for healing. She doesn’t see herself as fragile—just tired of surviving. That makes her strength feel earned, not performative. Her scars, both visible and invisible, add weight to every decision she makes, and her longing for freedom is the emotional heartbeat of the book.
Kaelen is everything the title promises: ruthless, feared, and utterly commanding. But beneath the Butcher of Boston reputation is a man with a strict moral line—and the moment Willow is harmed, that line is crossed. His brand of protection is absolute, traditional, and unwavering. He doesn’t posture or hesitate. He claims, not as a cage, but as a shield. And that distinction matters.
The chemistry between them is immediate and fated, but the romance never overshadows the danger. Politics, mob power, and pack dynamics swirl around them, giving the story real tension and consequence. Kaelen’s vow—no one touches what is mine—isn’t just possessive bravado; it’s a promise backed by action.
If you love omegaverse romance with a powerful alpha hero, a wounded omega finding her voice, and a dark, protective love that feels both classic and cathartic, Kaelen delivers a compelling, heart-tugging read that leaves you believing in safety, strength, and the right kind of forever. 🖤🔥
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kaelen is a gritty, emotionally charged omegaverse romance that blends old-school mob power with fate, found safety, and a fierce sense of possession. From the very first page, the stakes are clear: Willow isn’t just overlooked—she’s been used. And watching her story shift from captivity to choice is deeply satisfying.
Willow is a wounded but resilient omega, and her love for broken animals mirrors her own quiet hope for healing. She doesn’t see herself as fragile—just tired of surviving. That makes her strength feel earned, not performative. Her scars, both visible and invisible, add weight to every decision she makes, and her longing for freedom is the emotional heartbeat of the book.
Kaelen is everything the title promises: ruthless, feared, and utterly commanding. But beneath the Butcher of Boston reputation is a man with a strict moral line—and the moment Willow is harmed, that line is crossed. His brand of protection is absolute, traditional, and unwavering. He doesn’t posture or hesitate. He claims, not as a cage, but as a shield. And that distinction matters.
The chemistry between them is immediate and fated, but the romance never overshadows the danger. Politics, mob power, and pack dynamics swirl around them, giving the story real tension and consequence. Kaelen’s vow—no one touches what is mine—isn’t just possessive bravado; it’s a promise backed by action.
If you love omegaverse romance with a powerful alpha hero, a wounded omega finding her voice, and a dark, protective love that feels both classic and cathartic, Kaelen delivers a compelling, heart-tugging read that leaves you believing in safety, strength, and the right kind of forever. 🖤🔥
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Kaelen by Michelle Love
⭐️ 3.5 stars
This was my first experience with the omegaverse genre, and I found Kaelen to be a fast-paced, engaging read with a satisfying conclusion.
What worked well:
The contrast between Kaelen’s fearsome reputation and his treatment of his mate was a highlight. The “Butcher of Boston” turning into a protective cinnamon roll added warmth and emotional payoff.
I appreciated the inclusion of secondary character development, which helped the world feel more populated and purposeful.
The story delivered a clear and rewarding resolution, which made the journey feel complete.
What didn’t work as well for me:
As a newer reader to the omegaverse genre, the frequent use of “Alpha” and “Omega” in dialogue took some adjustment for me and occasionally pulled me out of the story, though readers familiar with the genre may find it immersive.
While marketed as a mafia romance, the mafia elements felt more like background context than a driving force of the plot.
The romance leaned heavily into insta-love, which is understandable for fated mates but felt a bit rushed for my personal taste.
Overall:
Kaelen was a quick, entertaining read that omegaverse and dark romance readers are likely to enjoy, especially those who like softer heroes beneath intimidating exteriors. Readers should be aware of the extensive content warnings, including graphic violence, abuse (not between the MCs), kidnapping, forced mate bonds, and dubious consent.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
⭐️ 3.5 stars
This was my first experience with the omegaverse genre, and I found Kaelen to be a fast-paced, engaging read with a satisfying conclusion.
What worked well:
The contrast between Kaelen’s fearsome reputation and his treatment of his mate was a highlight. The “Butcher of Boston” turning into a protective cinnamon roll added warmth and emotional payoff.
I appreciated the inclusion of secondary character development, which helped the world feel more populated and purposeful.
The story delivered a clear and rewarding resolution, which made the journey feel complete.
What didn’t work as well for me:
As a newer reader to the omegaverse genre, the frequent use of “Alpha” and “Omega” in dialogue took some adjustment for me and occasionally pulled me out of the story, though readers familiar with the genre may find it immersive.
While marketed as a mafia romance, the mafia elements felt more like background context than a driving force of the plot.
The romance leaned heavily into insta-love, which is understandable for fated mates but felt a bit rushed for my personal taste.
Overall:
Kaelen was a quick, entertaining read that omegaverse and dark romance readers are likely to enjoy, especially those who like softer heroes beneath intimidating exteriors. Readers should be aware of the extensive content warnings, including graphic violence, abuse (not between the MCs), kidnapping, forced mate bonds, and dubious consent.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
When I learned Michelle was writing an omegaverse, mafia romance, I squealed and ran to her DMs. Despite my lunacy, she so kindly gave me the opportunity to ARC review this story.
This story follows Kaelen, known as the Butcher of Boston, head of the Irish mob, and Willow, omega daughter of a corrupt politician. Willow’s father attempts to sell her to Kaelen in exchange for help with his election campaign. Despite not wanting an omega, Kaelen feels a pull to Willow that he can’t ignore, so he takes her away from her horrible father. (That’s an extremely barebones summary of the story. Go read it to learn what happens!)
First of all, I am still wondering if there is a catalog that one can order a Kaelen from, because as far as book boyfriends go, he’s one of the absolute best. I am obsessed with him and the way he respects and treats Willow the entire story. He’s protective, possessive, and has a positively filthy mouth on him. Honestly, a win-win situation right there.
Willow is a BAMF. Going against everything her designation is supposed to make her - submissive, quiet, and a good broodmare - she is loud, opinionated, and refuses to accept her fate as a “barefoot and pregnant in the kitchen” kind of woman. And she’s met her match in Kaelen. What starts off as fighting constantly, turns into banter as foreplay as you move through the story. Willow is beautiful and independent, and Kaelen doesn’t want her any other way.
I loved this story! The main and secondary characters are phenomenally written. The villains are so villainous that you can’t help but to legitimately hate them. Well-paced and descriptive enough to feel immersed in the world, without being overburdened by superfluous imagery.
5 stars, 4 chili peppers! Do yourself a favor and go read this as soon as it becomes available. You really won’t regret it!
This story follows Kaelen, known as the Butcher of Boston, head of the Irish mob, and Willow, omega daughter of a corrupt politician. Willow’s father attempts to sell her to Kaelen in exchange for help with his election campaign. Despite not wanting an omega, Kaelen feels a pull to Willow that he can’t ignore, so he takes her away from her horrible father. (That’s an extremely barebones summary of the story. Go read it to learn what happens!)
First of all, I am still wondering if there is a catalog that one can order a Kaelen from, because as far as book boyfriends go, he’s one of the absolute best. I am obsessed with him and the way he respects and treats Willow the entire story. He’s protective, possessive, and has a positively filthy mouth on him. Honestly, a win-win situation right there.
Willow is a BAMF. Going against everything her designation is supposed to make her - submissive, quiet, and a good broodmare - she is loud, opinionated, and refuses to accept her fate as a “barefoot and pregnant in the kitchen” kind of woman. And she’s met her match in Kaelen. What starts off as fighting constantly, turns into banter as foreplay as you move through the story. Willow is beautiful and independent, and Kaelen doesn’t want her any other way.
I loved this story! The main and secondary characters are phenomenally written. The villains are so villainous that you can’t help but to legitimately hate them. Well-paced and descriptive enough to feel immersed in the world, without being overburdened by superfluous imagery.
5 stars, 4 chili peppers! Do yourself a favor and go read this as soon as it becomes available. You really won’t regret it!
January 16, 2026
Overall the plot was great, classics dark mafia romance within the omegaverse. I loved reading about Willow and Kaelen’s relationship and how they grew together. Kaelen’s devotion to Willow is precious and truly is a love for the ages. The way he lets her lead so she is comfortable after coming from a life of abuse is admirable and purely adorable. Willow slowly coming to trust Kaelen and realizing what actual love is meant to feel like is so special.
However, the writing was hard for me to get through. It was tedious and repetitive. The mention of how tiny her hand was in his massive hand was said way too often, it was kind of giving y/n and her CEO. I struggled to get through this book because the pacing was off and there were so many subplots happening that just didn’t feel weaved together properly. The tone shift felt jarring in some places and overall I kept getting pulled out of the book and making sure my kindle hadn’t glitched because it felt like I’d read the scene already.
The plot was great, the character growth was wonderful and well developed, it the repetition and overall clunkiness of the writing made this book hard to get through. I am interested in book two because I do hope the couple teased in book one is who it focuses on and that seems like a fun read.
However, the writing was hard for me to get through. It was tedious and repetitive. The mention of how tiny her hand was in his massive hand was said way too often, it was kind of giving y/n and her CEO. I struggled to get through this book because the pacing was off and there were so many subplots happening that just didn’t feel weaved together properly. The tone shift felt jarring in some places and overall I kept getting pulled out of the book and making sure my kindle hadn’t glitched because it felt like I’d read the scene already.
The plot was great, the character growth was wonderful and well developed, it the repetition and overall clunkiness of the writing made this book hard to get through. I am interested in book two because I do hope the couple teased in book one is who it focuses on and that seems like a fun read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was such a fun and cozy read!
I love omegaverse and how it pulls me in,this one wasn't different.
Kaelen is a charming alpha and he runs the mafia in Boston, he is ruthless but he would do anything for his omega. I really loved that he is known as the butcher of Boston but he said that omegas are precious beings and show never be damaged in any way.
Willow is a feisty omega that lives under the thumb of her father,she is abused by him and doesn't fight back because she fears her dad can hurt her mom instead. She is a good porcelain doll until one night her father tells her that she is being sold to a man in exchange for political advantages. Her world shattered and she ends up finding refuge in the arms of Kaelen. He helps her overcome her traumas and get her spark back.
This was super cute and an easy read. Also, I really liked Kaelen's brothers and Willow bestie, hopefully they will get their own book.
I want to thank Netgalley, the author and the publisher for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I love omegaverse and how it pulls me in,this one wasn't different.
Kaelen is a charming alpha and he runs the mafia in Boston, he is ruthless but he would do anything for his omega. I really loved that he is known as the butcher of Boston but he said that omegas are precious beings and show never be damaged in any way.
Willow is a feisty omega that lives under the thumb of her father,she is abused by him and doesn't fight back because she fears her dad can hurt her mom instead. She is a good porcelain doll until one night her father tells her that she is being sold to a man in exchange for political advantages. Her world shattered and she ends up finding refuge in the arms of Kaelen. He helps her overcome her traumas and get her spark back.
This was super cute and an easy read. Also, I really liked Kaelen's brothers and Willow bestie, hopefully they will get their own book.
I want to thank Netgalley, the author and the publisher for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Omegaverse are my go-to reads. When I'm in a book slump or just don't know what I want, I always go-to an omergaverse. And this book did not disappoint. It also has mafia-lite vibes, age gap, forced proximity and a quickie marriage. The story is set in Mass and I'm from the area, so I felt a little connected when they were talking about the Sox or mentioned a town and I knew exactly where it was.
He comes from a loving home - her father is atrocious. Her father, the senator, tries to sell her for help with his political career. Kaelen wants no part of that but will not let Willow go with her father. Their relationship quickly heats up. He falls fast and harder. She has walls because of her childhood but because of his patience, Willow truly falls for the MMC. While it does follow a typical storyline, it was well written and the spice was on point! I would definitely read this book again!
He comes from a loving home - her father is atrocious. Her father, the senator, tries to sell her for help with his political career. Kaelen wants no part of that but will not let Willow go with her father. Their relationship quickly heats up. He falls fast and harder. She has walls because of her childhood but because of his patience, Willow truly falls for the MMC. While it does follow a typical storyline, it was well written and the spice was on point! I would definitely read this book again!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kaelen is the Alpha mafia boss that we all pine for; he's obsessive, caring, and will go to great lengths to be with Willow.
Willow is the Omega that Kaelen has been waiting for. She has a heart of gold and is feisty when she needs to be, and not afraid to slap someone.
And I cannot wait to see where other relationships within this Omegaverse go in other books!
Read the trigger warnings before you fully decide to read this book. Some themes can be triggering for some viewers. This book is the mafia meets Omegaverse. If you have not read an Omegaverse before, the author does give an overview of her version of an Omegaverse. This was a really good book, and I read it in a day.
Willow is the Omega that Kaelen has been waiting for. She has a heart of gold and is feisty when she needs to be, and not afraid to slap someone.
And I cannot wait to see where other relationships within this Omegaverse go in other books!
Read the trigger warnings before you fully decide to read this book. Some themes can be triggering for some viewers. This book is the mafia meets Omegaverse. If you have not read an Omegaverse before, the author does give an overview of her version of an Omegaverse. This was a really good book, and I read it in a day.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dark romance omniverse….enjoyed my first book with this theme. Never read the alpha omega books before. Kaelen and Willow were lovable characters…Kaelen dark yet a soft side for Willow. Willow starts off stubborn yet weak but ends up strong and fiery. The two subplots were a bit much I thought the one with the other mobster guy could have been left out. The drama with her mother and the emotional toll and trauma with that could have been more in depth. Overall I liked the book and would recommend. Will read the next one in the series
Review of advance copy received from Author
Omegaverse+Irish mafia=everything I needed. Not only do we get a possessive Alpha but he is also the head of the Irish Mob with strong touch her and die vibes. I love an alpha who melts for his omega and would do anything for her and Kaelen is everything.
Willow has been through so much and watching her come into herself is🤌
4.5🌟
2.5🌶
Tropes:
🔗omegaverse
🔗knotting
🔗touch her and die
🔗he falls first
🔗mob
🔗nesting
🔗heats
Willow has been through so much and watching her come into herself is🤌
4.5🌟
2.5🌶
Tropes:
🔗omegaverse
🔗knotting
🔗touch her and die
🔗he falls first
🔗mob
🔗nesting
🔗heats
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Okay. Everyone has chemistry like freaking crazy and I demand to know Sam's story expeditiously.
I'll take a pocket-sized Kaelen to affirm me and fulfill my praise quota.
{I read the book as an ARC and my opinions in this review are genuine}
Praise K!nk
Mafia Romance
Good Girl/Bad Boy
Insta-Love
Omegaverse
Touch her and D!e
Found Family
I'll take a pocket-sized Kaelen to affirm me and fulfill my praise quota.
{I read the book as an ARC and my opinions in this review are genuine}
Praise K!nk
Mafia Romance
Good Girl/Bad Boy
Insta-Love
Omegaverse
Touch her and D!e
Found Family
Review of advance copy received from Author
copy & line edit; proofread
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review!
I AM OBSESSED! AHHH this was soooo good and im so thankful to the author for giving me a chance to read this so early! This was so spicy and perfect!
I AM OBSESSED! AHHH this was soooo good and im so thankful to the author for giving me a chance to read this so early! This was so spicy and perfect!
January 15, 2026
Mafia omegaverse hits different 🤌🏻 RTC
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews