What do you think?
Rate this book
The Omegaverse Case Files #3
Lock Step
Times are changing in West Newton, and the game is finally up for Firearms Officers Taylor Campbell and John-Paul Ateba. After pissing off HR one too many times, they find themselves re-assigned to the sleepy retirement town of Dingly Heath, where the only lineup is outside the supermarket when incontinence pads are on special offer.
Except, there’s something not quite right about the locals, or their soon to be colleagues, or the place that was once crowned ‘Britain’s Most Motivated Town’. Soon, Johnny and Taylor discover that something much darker is lurking beneath the pristine lawns and show-stopping hanging baskets, and that they may have accidentally planted themselves in the heart of the growing alpha/omega unrest.
Best friends since childhood, the new assignment will push their friendship beyond its limits, especially when one of them has been secretly in love with the other for over a decade.
This is a childhood best friends-to-lovers, M/M, alpha/alpha omegaverse novel.
CW: descriptions of past child abuse (neglect, non-sexual), violence, explicit sexual scenes, explicit language, dark Brit-cop humour, an implied eating disorder (binge eating), unhealthy codependency between MCs, taking the piss out of one of the MCs religion (Christianity). Note: One of the MCs is heavily ADHD-coded and experiences all the difficulties that come with that neurodevelopmental disorder. Mpreg is a part of this world but does not feature heavily in this book.
Mature audiences only (18+), please check the content warnings.
Except, there’s something not quite right about the locals, or their soon to be colleagues, or the place that was once crowned ‘Britain’s Most Motivated Town’. Soon, Johnny and Taylor discover that something much darker is lurking beneath the pristine lawns and show-stopping hanging baskets, and that they may have accidentally planted themselves in the heart of the growing alpha/omega unrest.
Best friends since childhood, the new assignment will push their friendship beyond its limits, especially when one of them has been secretly in love with the other for over a decade.
This is a childhood best friends-to-lovers, M/M, alpha/alpha omegaverse novel.
CW: descriptions of past child abuse (neglect, non-sexual), violence, explicit sexual scenes, explicit language, dark Brit-cop humour, an implied eating disorder (binge eating), unhealthy codependency between MCs, taking the piss out of one of the MCs religion (Christianity). Note: One of the MCs is heavily ADHD-coded and experiences all the difficulties that come with that neurodevelopmental disorder. Mpreg is a part of this world but does not feature heavily in this book.
Mature audiences only (18+), please check the content warnings.
444 pages, Unknown Binding
Published April 16, 2026
About the author
C.T. Whistle
3 books186 followersC.T. Whistle is a UK indie author, who is currently running on hopes, dreams and very little sleep. When she isn't typing up a storm and ruining her characters lives, she aspires to take a nap but fails miserably at every turn.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
April 20, 2026
The Omegaverse Case Files series by @c.t.whistle just keeps getting BETTER AND BETTER. Y’all, Lock Step was a DELIGHT. Johnny and Taylor’s story had idiots to lovers detectives (well, they get sort of a demotion in this one 😂 but it all works out), all the YEARNING, but also….. it’s alpha/alpha 😮💨, there’s TONS of scenting, biting, alpha posturing, pacing, “touch him and ☠️” UNGHHHHHH it’s so good.
Something I love in CT Whistles books is how “wolfy” her shifters are - they spend a good bit of time hanging out shifted, and I LOVE all the scenes where Johnny and Taylor wrestle and run together as wolves, together AND with Johnny’s WONDERFUL family. The found family/pack vibes are IMMACULATE in the series and this book.
Another fun thing that’s been in every single one of CT Whistle’s book is a 🥵🥵 car sëx scene, and omg, they are all amazing but this one takes the cake I think. None of these guys can ever wait to get home 🫠😂.
If you like omegaverse, shifter romance, detective novels, or just FREAKING AMAZING mm romance books, you need to start this series IMMEDIATELY. I’ve DEVOURED every one!
Something I love in CT Whistles books is how “wolfy” her shifters are - they spend a good bit of time hanging out shifted, and I LOVE all the scenes where Johnny and Taylor wrestle and run together as wolves, together AND with Johnny’s WONDERFUL family. The found family/pack vibes are IMMACULATE in the series and this book.
Another fun thing that’s been in every single one of CT Whistle’s book is a 🥵🥵 car sëx scene, and omg, they are all amazing but this one takes the cake I think. None of these guys can ever wait to get home 🫠😂.
If you like omegaverse, shifter romance, detective novels, or just FREAKING AMAZING mm romance books, you need to start this series IMMEDIATELY. I’ve DEVOURED every one!
March 20, 2026
Oh how I love them and need five more books from this world! I straight sobbed during a couple different parts and full on laughed out loud during others.
Full review to come!
Full review to come!
Did Not Finish
April 17, 2026The first book on this series impressed me. It was a very well written story from a genre I’ve come to not expect much.
The second book was overall disappointing, I liked parts of it.
Now this third installment just instantly put me off. Gross humor (I’m not kidding, the first few pages really wanted to drive the point home with unnecessarily off-putting details), and a main character that’s supposed to be “ADHD coded” acting like an idiot. Not my cup of tea, I will pass.
The second book was overall disappointing, I liked parts of it.
Now this third installment just instantly put me off. Gross humor (I’m not kidding, the first few pages really wanted to drive the point home with unnecessarily off-putting details), and a main character that’s supposed to be “ADHD coded” acting like an idiot. Not my cup of tea, I will pass.
April 18, 2026
What a complete unicorn of a series—MM, ABO, shifter mystery romances that are focused on social welfare and inequity. As a social worker and compulsive MM romance reader, this series feels like a gift from the universe. I also appreciated CT Whistle’s autobiographical statement at the end of this installment—hi comrade! I feel the exact same way about the reading of and sometimes the writing of romance as a foil for work.
It’s funny how a mystery involving the endangerment of senior citizens and child welfare can simultaneously almost be a cozy to some degree. Taylor and Johnny are so completely at home in each other’s lives that there’s a slow intimacy that permeates the book from the get go. It’s a beautiful thing, though my brain wasn’t sure what to make of the first little bit—they were pretty much an established couple before the book started if not for their mutual insecurities. Some ABO authors make a big deal of the taboo of relationships between alphas—Leta Blake’s awesome ABO series has a really angsty book focused on this dynamic—but CT chooses to forgo this plot device. I think I kinda wanted that to be a thing as a more solid reason why it took Taylor and Johnny to see what was obvious to everyone else who knew them, but that’s a completely subjective opinion and didn’t take away from the quality of the story itself.
Anyway, I can’t wait for more from this author, though I understand why it might take some time between volumes. Added extra glitter sparkle bonus points for the fantastic cover which doesn’t stereotype what we romance readers want from a book. I wish more romance publishers/authors etc didn’t feel the need to put overly salacious covers their products.
It’s funny how a mystery involving the endangerment of senior citizens and child welfare can simultaneously almost be a cozy to some degree. Taylor and Johnny are so completely at home in each other’s lives that there’s a slow intimacy that permeates the book from the get go. It’s a beautiful thing, though my brain wasn’t sure what to make of the first little bit—they were pretty much an established couple before the book started if not for their mutual insecurities. Some ABO authors make a big deal of the taboo of relationships between alphas—Leta Blake’s awesome ABO series has a really angsty book focused on this dynamic—but CT chooses to forgo this plot device. I think I kinda wanted that to be a thing as a more solid reason why it took Taylor and Johnny to see what was obvious to everyone else who knew them, but that’s a completely subjective opinion and didn’t take away from the quality of the story itself.
Anyway, I can’t wait for more from this author, though I understand why it might take some time between volumes. Added extra glitter sparkle bonus points for the fantastic cover which doesn’t stereotype what we romance readers want from a book. I wish more romance publishers/authors etc didn’t feel the need to put overly salacious covers their products.
series-i-will-not-finish
April 18, 2026DNF @20%
Quite honestly I'm just bored. This isn't as addicting as the first two books in the series was. I also don't usually prefer alphaxalpha pairings. There are exceptions of course but this one is just not really doing it for me. I don't think this was a bad book per se, just not a book for me, and that's okay.
Quite honestly I'm just bored. This isn't as addicting as the first two books in the series was. I also don't usually prefer alphaxalpha pairings. There are exceptions of course but this one is just not really doing it for me. I don't think this was a bad book per se, just not a book for me, and that's okay.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC of this book, but my review is my own.
I waffled over the star rating but ultimately went with 3 (I’d give 3.5 but Goodreads is behind the times on half star ratings) because comparatively, I enjoyed the first two books in the series more.
The Good:
- Diversity of characters. The author is excellent at writing a range of cast and characters. Johnny’s background in particular was researched and incredibly well done. I appreciated snippets of his family and life in Cameroon before moving to Britain. Additionally, the book had mental health rep (Taylor - ADHD) and asexuality rep!
- The BANTER. A common theme across this series is the dry, witty, irreverent dialogue between the characters. I laughed out loud reading so many of these lines. At one point, I added an annotation labeled ‘Recycling themed dirty talk’. I also have this gem highlighted: ‘Taylor was not religious in any way shape or form, but he could appreciate a man who got nailed for six hours straight and still came back for more.’ SEE?! Absolute bangers.
- Continuation of the case investigation. All three books are tied together through related investigations involving omegas, human trafficking, and drugs. I’ve enjoyed seeing the case unfold over the books and feel invested in the outcome by the time this series wraps up.
The Waffle
- Taylor has a ton of built up grief related to his upbringing and Sam’s death. At one point he threatens Pember and attempts to intimidate him. This occurs after Johnny’s hospitalization and is explained away as Taylor being ‘overwhelmed’, but it doesn’t seem sufficient? Taylor feels a little bad but there are no real consequences for his behavior or lack of responsibility for managing his grief/pain. He comes across more often than not as unlikeable (I know that this is a personal opinion and not everyone is going to feel like that, but Taylor has trauma that he doesn’t appropriately deal with and takes it out on others as a result)
- Some instances of police brutality against a known sex offender. Additionally, there are descriptions of an omega prison that may be difficult to read. While Johnny and Taylor (and others in Dingly Heath) are made out to be the ‘good guys’, I personally felt uncomfy about the violence portrayed between the police and the ‘bad guys’. The justice system is more often than not, very unjust. As an American reader, this hits particularly close to home. While violence is mentioned in the content warnings, I would have appreciated a more specific warning around policing and the prison system represented in the book. Also I would be remiss not to mention this…ACAB
- I think this book was meant to be a more lighthearted reprieve from the overarching storyline across the series. It definitely felt lighter in some parts (aka the banter), but overall there were still a looooot of heavy parts. This isn’t a bad thing, but I definitely went into this thinking that it would read more like a romcom (readers, it was not)
- There were some minor plot points that I wasn’t sure were resolved 100% or maybe were added in as an afterthought — William’s integration into Johnny’s family, dealing with Sam’s death, Benny Pearce, Taylor’s mom’s note at the verrrrrry end. These are probably minor but they feel like an unscratchable brain itch
I waffled over the star rating but ultimately went with 3 (I’d give 3.5 but Goodreads is behind the times on half star ratings) because comparatively, I enjoyed the first two books in the series more.
The Good:
- Diversity of characters. The author is excellent at writing a range of cast and characters. Johnny’s background in particular was researched and incredibly well done. I appreciated snippets of his family and life in Cameroon before moving to Britain. Additionally, the book had mental health rep (Taylor - ADHD) and asexuality rep!
- The BANTER. A common theme across this series is the dry, witty, irreverent dialogue between the characters. I laughed out loud reading so many of these lines. At one point, I added an annotation labeled ‘Recycling themed dirty talk’. I also have this gem highlighted: ‘Taylor was not religious in any way shape or form, but he could appreciate a man who got nailed for six hours straight and still came back for more.’ SEE?! Absolute bangers.
- Continuation of the case investigation. All three books are tied together through related investigations involving omegas, human trafficking, and drugs. I’ve enjoyed seeing the case unfold over the books and feel invested in the outcome by the time this series wraps up.
The Waffle
- Taylor has a ton of built up grief related to his upbringing and Sam’s death. At one point he threatens Pember and attempts to intimidate him. This occurs after Johnny’s hospitalization and is explained away as Taylor being ‘overwhelmed’, but it doesn’t seem sufficient? Taylor feels a little bad but there are no real consequences for his behavior or lack of responsibility for managing his grief/pain. He comes across more often than not as unlikeable (I know that this is a personal opinion and not everyone is going to feel like that, but Taylor has trauma that he doesn’t appropriately deal with and takes it out on others as a result)
- Some instances of police brutality against a known sex offender. Additionally, there are descriptions of an omega prison that may be difficult to read. While Johnny and Taylor (and others in Dingly Heath) are made out to be the ‘good guys’, I personally felt uncomfy about the violence portrayed between the police and the ‘bad guys’. The justice system is more often than not, very unjust. As an American reader, this hits particularly close to home. While violence is mentioned in the content warnings, I would have appreciated a more specific warning around policing and the prison system represented in the book. Also I would be remiss not to mention this…ACAB
- I think this book was meant to be a more lighthearted reprieve from the overarching storyline across the series. It definitely felt lighter in some parts (aka the banter), but overall there were still a looooot of heavy parts. This isn’t a bad thing, but I definitely went into this thinking that it would read more like a romcom (readers, it was not)
- There were some minor plot points that I wasn’t sure were resolved 100% or maybe were added in as an afterthought — William’s integration into Johnny’s family, dealing with Sam’s death, Benny Pearce, Taylor’s mom’s note at the verrrrrry end. These are probably minor but they feel like an unscratchable brain itch
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What fun Lock Step was!
I mean, don't get me wrong, Johnny and Taylor have all the angst, just enough longing, and all the endearing codependency that I was hoping for, but this third installment in the Omegaverse Case Files also brought plenty of moments that made me "awwwwwwwww" and laugh out loud.
Describing Lock Step without context:
It was really refreshing to get that inside look at Johnny and Taylor because these boys have so much more going on inside than we got to see previously.
Thank god for thr33somes because our gentlemen really needed to be pushed off that cliff so they could finally fly together.
Johnny and Taylor were such a cute couple despite the struggle bus that they (mostly Taylor) kept hopping on and off of. Their relationship is one that's built on a strong bedrock of friendship that's been built up by trust, affection, and acceptance.
It's not that Blake & Pember or Oliver and Lucas don't make my heart swoon just as much, but Johnny and Taylor and their friends-to-lovers dynamic just scratched an itch I didn't realize was bothering me.
Because I can't spend the entire review going on about Johnny and Taylor, I guess I'll talk about something else.
Their transfer to Falkington/Dingly Heath worked out perfectly, and I loved the new setting. Whistle still incorporates some bigger/more serious issues into their work home, but we get a lot of fun/funny details that make the small town endearing and interesting.
The new cast of supporting characters - Wendy, Amil, and Isla - give us the comedic, grumpy, and cautiously amused found family that the boys need, and I'm just as excited to see them again in future books as I am when I see Blake, Pember, Lucas, or Oliver.
Overall, I blew through Lock Step, sleep be d@mned, because there was just something about the boys and the rest of Whistle's cast of characters that just kept calling me back even when I made the mistake of checking what time it was. I'm really glad I stumbled across the first book, Hammer and Gavel
Already waiting for book four!
I mean, don't get me wrong, Johnny and Taylor have all the angst, just enough longing, and all the endearing codependency that I was hoping for, but this third installment in the Omegaverse Case Files also brought plenty of moments that made me "awwwwwwwww" and laugh out loud.
Describing Lock Step without context:
- There was cake?!
- Who can resist hedgehogs?
- My god, I want to hug Amil.
- My nails are in need of rescuing, too.
- The inclusion of Sylvester the Mol3ster is both 5-star comedy and nightmare fuel.
- Thank god for thr33somes.
- FINALLY.
- Little sisters are a curse and an adorable blessing.
- Godd@mnit, the book's over.
It was really refreshing to get that inside look at Johnny and Taylor because these boys have so much more going on inside than we got to see previously.
-Johnny is caring, organized, a bit of a mother hen, and most importantly, completely devoted to his best friend.
-Taylor is the epitome of hot mess with his impulse control issues, but he's a sweetheart on the inside, and there's nothing more he wants than to be good enough for his best friend.
Thank god for thr33somes because our gentlemen really needed to be pushed off that cliff so they could finally fly together.
Johnny and Taylor were such a cute couple despite the struggle bus that they (mostly Taylor) kept hopping on and off of. Their relationship is one that's built on a strong bedrock of friendship that's been built up by trust, affection, and acceptance.
It's not that Blake & Pember or Oliver and Lucas don't make my heart swoon just as much, but Johnny and Taylor and their friends-to-lovers dynamic just scratched an itch I didn't realize was bothering me.
Because I can't spend the entire review going on about Johnny and Taylor, I guess I'll talk about something else.
Their transfer to Falkington/Dingly Heath worked out perfectly, and I loved the new setting. Whistle still incorporates some bigger/more serious issues into their work home, but we get a lot of fun/funny details that make the small town endearing and interesting.
The new cast of supporting characters - Wendy, Amil, and Isla - give us the comedic, grumpy, and cautiously amused found family that the boys need, and I'm just as excited to see them again in future books as I am when I see Blake, Pember, Lucas, or Oliver.
Overall, I blew through Lock Step, sleep be d@mned, because there was just something about the boys and the rest of Whistle's cast of characters that just kept calling me back even when I made the mistake of checking what time it was. I'm really glad I stumbled across the first book, Hammer and Gavel
Already waiting for book four!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book three in the series and another five star read for me.
This time we got to experience a different dynamic than the previous books as this was an alpha x alpha pairing between two bestie, idiots to lovers really, who get reprimanded for being rather shit at their jobs (as police officers) so they get sent off to a quaint (shitty) little village where the average age is like 60 to help at that station. Without their weapons mind you - because they prefer to solve things in a community like way there. Holding hands and singing songs etc (not really, but you get the gist)
Without their weapons they have no choice but to make the best of it, so off they trot. It seems that chaos likes to follow them though, regardless of where they go, because it doesn’t take them long before they stumble upon a lot of naughty things happening in that town. Their police work was absolutely stellar and hilarious. And disgusting. The visual of that one arrest will stay with me until my dying day - you know the one I’m talking about. It involves a wine bottle. My god.
Anyway, in addition to their policing shenanigans, we have the developing relationship between the two. Johnny is our resident pine tree who has been in love with Taylor going on 14 years. Taylor is somewhat oblivious and yet does things that makes Johnny question where his feelings actually lie - e.g. biting his scent gland, scent marking him etc….
They figure their shit out in a very unique and hot way when they take home an omega and decide to share. Hard to hide your feelings when you’re so into your ‘threesome’ that you completely and totally forget theirs another dude there…. And almost squish him. lol. (He’s fine and gets his so don’t worry).
Johnny is very much the calm, steady one in this dynamic, slowly pushing them forward and in the right direction. Taylor was chaos personified but we love him anyway, and together they were so perfect and explosive with their chemistry. Hot damn.
Now the next book in the series will feature an omega that was arrested in a previous book for doing things... I believe I should have sussed out who their partner is going to be already, but honestly I was too focused on Taylor and Johnny so I’ve got all the gear and no idea. Oh well, I guess I’ll just have to go back and do a re-read… oh no. I’m devastated.
Anyway, if you’re a fan of:
Omegaverse
Alpha v alpha
Idiots to lovers
Strong found family
Hilarious banter and police work
Kick ass side characters etc then do yourself a favour and read this entire series. Don’t start here, that would be doing yourself a disservice, but definitely read all three.
Impatiently waiting for book four and will be buying a shelf copy when they’re available.
*ARC provided by author for a full and honest review, this is my full and honest review of this book*
This time we got to experience a different dynamic than the previous books as this was an alpha x alpha pairing between two bestie, idiots to lovers really, who get reprimanded for being rather shit at their jobs (as police officers) so they get sent off to a quaint (shitty) little village where the average age is like 60 to help at that station. Without their weapons mind you - because they prefer to solve things in a community like way there. Holding hands and singing songs etc (not really, but you get the gist)
Without their weapons they have no choice but to make the best of it, so off they trot. It seems that chaos likes to follow them though, regardless of where they go, because it doesn’t take them long before they stumble upon a lot of naughty things happening in that town. Their police work was absolutely stellar and hilarious. And disgusting. The visual of that one arrest will stay with me until my dying day - you know the one I’m talking about. It involves a wine bottle. My god.
Anyway, in addition to their policing shenanigans, we have the developing relationship between the two. Johnny is our resident pine tree who has been in love with Taylor going on 14 years. Taylor is somewhat oblivious and yet does things that makes Johnny question where his feelings actually lie - e.g. biting his scent gland, scent marking him etc….
They figure their shit out in a very unique and hot way when they take home an omega and decide to share. Hard to hide your feelings when you’re so into your ‘threesome’ that you completely and totally forget theirs another dude there…. And almost squish him. lol. (He’s fine and gets his so don’t worry).
Johnny is very much the calm, steady one in this dynamic, slowly pushing them forward and in the right direction. Taylor was chaos personified but we love him anyway, and together they were so perfect and explosive with their chemistry. Hot damn.
Now the next book in the series will feature an omega that was arrested in a previous book for doing things... I believe I should have sussed out who their partner is going to be already, but honestly I was too focused on Taylor and Johnny so I’ve got all the gear and no idea. Oh well, I guess I’ll just have to go back and do a re-read… oh no. I’m devastated.
Anyway, if you’re a fan of:
Omegaverse
Alpha v alpha
Idiots to lovers
Strong found family
Hilarious banter and police work
Kick ass side characters etc then do yourself a favour and read this entire series. Don’t start here, that would be doing yourself a disservice, but definitely read all three.
Impatiently waiting for book four and will be buying a shelf copy when they’re available.
*ARC provided by author for a full and honest review, this is my full and honest review of this book*
Review of advance copy received from Author
Trigger warning: this review is ✨long✨ because I simply refused to shut up about my thoughts and feelings 😌
Oh man… just when you think this author can’t get any better, they prove you wrong 😭✨
Learning the author is a social worker honestly makes so much sense, the emotional depth in these books feels incredibly real. This story, like the others, explores broken homes, complicated relationships, and learning how to love through hardship. It’s bittersweet, wholesome, and definitely got me teary 🫂🩷
This time we follow Taylor and Johnny, and I absolutely loved these goofballs ❤️🔥
Childhood friends with a big old yearning (my favorite)
Johnny, a Cameron Christina Alpha, born into a loving family and Taylor a chaotic, ADHD, binge eating lovable golden retriever from a broken home.
Some of the personal and family moments really stood out too. JP talking about feeling disconnected from his childhood after immigrating hit deep 😭 As well as his aunts story!!
The setting was freaking adorable: Small British countryside town where most residences are retired and live in peace…except when fighting each other in the pharmacy for their prescription, oh man I have been there and that part made me giggle!! 😂😂
From the prescription,I was expecting more of a Miss Marple-style mystery, but it leaned more into true crime, which I didn’t mind!
The side characters were, as always, a highlight: William owns my heart, and I loved Clem, Gabrie, and Marty 😇 The new police additions: Amil, Isla, and Wendy were great (and I’m so happy Wendy found Wallace) 💖 And I’m already emotionally preparing for Ru and Amil’s story because I just know it’s going to hurt 🫠✨
I also have to say, I love the world-building in this series, especially the Omega politics and overall social structure, but I can tell things for Alphas might turn for the worst 👀✨
Also, seeing past couples again made me so happy 😭 Blake & Pember 🫶 and I still miss Oliver, Luca, and little Alfie (I need Alfie and Will to meet!!)
Overall, this was emotional, heartwarming, and full of love, growth, and found family 🫂 I’m so excited (and a little scared lol) for what’s next!!!
And lastly… I just want to say how grateful I am for receiving this ARC 🥺✨
I’m not an influencer or anything, just a genuine fan, so this already meant a lot. But getting this book during a difficult time in my life made it feel even more special. It honestly felt like a little gem in the middle of everything I’ve been going through, and the timing couldn’t have been better 💎
If the author ever happens to see this, just know I truly love what you’re creating and keep on the good work 🤧
Oh man… just when you think this author can’t get any better, they prove you wrong 😭✨
Learning the author is a social worker honestly makes so much sense, the emotional depth in these books feels incredibly real. This story, like the others, explores broken homes, complicated relationships, and learning how to love through hardship. It’s bittersweet, wholesome, and definitely got me teary 🫂🩷
This time we follow Taylor and Johnny, and I absolutely loved these goofballs ❤️🔥
Childhood friends with a big old yearning (my favorite)
Johnny, a Cameron Christina Alpha, born into a loving family and Taylor a chaotic, ADHD, binge eating lovable golden retriever from a broken home.
Some of the personal and family moments really stood out too. JP talking about feeling disconnected from his childhood after immigrating hit deep 😭 As well as his aunts story!!
The setting was freaking adorable: Small British countryside town where most residences are retired and live in peace…except when fighting each other in the pharmacy for their prescription, oh man I have been there and that part made me giggle!! 😂😂
From the prescription,I was expecting more of a Miss Marple-style mystery, but it leaned more into true crime, which I didn’t mind!
The side characters were, as always, a highlight: William owns my heart, and I loved Clem, Gabrie, and Marty 😇 The new police additions: Amil, Isla, and Wendy were great (and I’m so happy Wendy found Wallace) 💖 And I’m already emotionally preparing for Ru and Amil’s story because I just know it’s going to hurt 🫠✨
I also have to say, I love the world-building in this series, especially the Omega politics and overall social structure, but I can tell things for Alphas might turn for the worst 👀✨
Also, seeing past couples again made me so happy 😭 Blake & Pember 🫶 and I still miss Oliver, Luca, and little Alfie (I need Alfie and Will to meet!!)
Overall, this was emotional, heartwarming, and full of love, growth, and found family 🫂 I’m so excited (and a little scared lol) for what’s next!!!
And lastly… I just want to say how grateful I am for receiving this ARC 🥺✨
I’m not an influencer or anything, just a genuine fan, so this already meant a lot. But getting this book during a difficult time in my life made it feel even more special. It honestly felt like a little gem in the middle of everything I’ve been going through, and the timing couldn’t have been better 💎
If the author ever happens to see this, just know I truly love what you’re creating and keep on the good work 🤧
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Fuck me, JP. We're just idiots, aren't we? Absolute throbbing dickheads."
The romance and the mystery in this series just don't let up, does it? This was such a sweet, captivating read. I mean, the love these two had for each other from the start 😭😭. After more than 15 years spent together as "brothers" it is understandable that their bond is strong, but the way Johnny was always there and knew exactly what Taylor needed? chef's kiss
And the ✨banter✨? Top tier. I laughed so much throughout the book, they genuinely made me so happy. Although one of my favourite moments might just be Blake's remark: "[...] Taylor, I tolerate, because wherever you are, there he is. Like a fly attached to a hippo's arse."
Also, calling them idiots in love fits perfectly in my opinion, because what do you mean Taylor just liked JP as a brother/best friend and then write: "[...] Then he found one of his own bright orange hairs lodged in his [JP's] collar. He removed it, but then decided to stuff it back in."
And before I forget, I love reading omegaverse in general, because I like the "primal urges" characters have, thanks to their "animal" side. Because of this, I don't normally read alpha x alpha, but this book had everything and more of what I'm usually looking for in omegaverse books. Not only a ridiculous amount of scenting and touching, but they also made a nest (or something that worked as a nest) and there was also a lot of talk about pack, which made me so happy.
There were a lot of new characters introduced in this book and they were all (except for the bad guys, obviously) incredibly charming in their own way. Johnny's family was simply incredible, chaotic, sweet and accepting at the same time. The moments when Taylor doubted his self-worth were just heart-wrenching 😭.
I've got to say, though, I really didn't want to read the last three chapters. Not because I wasn't interested or anything, but simply because I knew the book would end 😭. I've got to say they did bring more laughter but then the last page of the book made me happy cry, but then the author's note made me cry even more.
I don't know how I feel about the main characters for the next book, but I cannot wait for it to come out and to be able to get my hands on it 🤭.
"My mate," Johnny said, pressing his nose into Taylor's scruff. Taylor nuzzled back, working his pointed nose into Johnny's undercoat. "My home."
The romance and the mystery in this series just don't let up, does it? This was such a sweet, captivating read. I mean, the love these two had for each other from the start 😭😭. After more than 15 years spent together as "brothers" it is understandable that their bond is strong, but the way Johnny was always there and knew exactly what Taylor needed? chef's kiss
And the ✨banter✨? Top tier. I laughed so much throughout the book, they genuinely made me so happy. Although one of my favourite moments might just be Blake's remark: "[...] Taylor, I tolerate, because wherever you are, there he is. Like a fly attached to a hippo's arse."
Also, calling them idiots in love fits perfectly in my opinion, because what do you mean Taylor just liked JP as a brother/best friend and then write: "[...] Then he found one of his own bright orange hairs lodged in his [JP's] collar. He removed it, but then decided to stuff it back in."
And before I forget, I love reading omegaverse in general, because I like the "primal urges" characters have, thanks to their "animal" side. Because of this, I don't normally read alpha x alpha, but this book had everything and more of what I'm usually looking for in omegaverse books. Not only a ridiculous amount of scenting and touching, but they also made a nest (or something that worked as a nest) and there was also a lot of talk about pack, which made me so happy.
There were a lot of new characters introduced in this book and they were all (except for the bad guys, obviously) incredibly charming in their own way. Johnny's family was simply incredible, chaotic, sweet and accepting at the same time. The moments when Taylor doubted his self-worth were just heart-wrenching 😭.
I've got to say, though, I really didn't want to read the last three chapters. Not because I wasn't interested or anything, but simply because I knew the book would end 😭. I've got to say they did bring more laughter but then the last page of the book made me happy cry, but then the author's note made me cry even more.
I don't know how I feel about the main characters for the next book, but I cannot wait for it to come out and to be able to get my hands on it 🤭.
"My mate," Johnny said, pressing his nose into Taylor's scruff. Taylor nuzzled back, working his pointed nose into Johnny's undercoat. "My home."
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lock Step was the first ARC I've ever requested, and I'm so glad I did. C.T. Whistle shares a bit of personal background in the afterword, and it makes sense to learn she has done jobs like those of her characters. One of the reasons I love this series is the gritty police-and-social-care procedural detail, office banter, and emotional cliff drops of working with folks who've been abused. You can't make all that up, at least not with the level of mingled love and frustration that breathes out of the workplace scenes in this series. Johnny, Taylor, Pember, Blake, Olly, Lucas, and their colleagues swear like sailors, prank each other, and fight like hell for vulnerable people.
Remarkably, that authenticity integrates naturally with omegaverse and shifter lore - even more in Lock Step than previous books, since we get a deeper look at a large pack dynamic. We all know this is a PNR and not The Iliad, but Whistle reps for the genre AND delivers skilled writing, tangy profane dialogue, a richly recognizable world, and tons of sensory detail. Too many PNRs feel like they could be any old rom-com with fangs or fins pasted on top. Not so here.
The romance works on the same level; it isn't schlocky, it's gritty: need, comfort, challenge, confrontation, hot spice, found family, tough communication, f*cking hot spice, laughter, longing, stupid jokes, self-discovery, the scent of your lover when nothing else will do. More spice. Did I say spice?
Johnny and Tay's story takes two characters who've been comic relief to date and gives them depth and sweetness (don't worry, they stay silly). The boys, who are both over 6 feet tall and ripped, are little emotional children when the book begins. By the end, they've grown up, grown together, and taken their places as leaders in the pack. Each member of Johnny and Tay's family is well-developed, warts and all, and feels like someone I want to know.
Highly, highly recommended. Do please read the books in order.
It's a P.S. vs. an important point, but I love how Whistle writes her characters as wolves. I live with two dogs and recognize them here.
Remarkably, that authenticity integrates naturally with omegaverse and shifter lore - even more in Lock Step than previous books, since we get a deeper look at a large pack dynamic. We all know this is a PNR and not The Iliad, but Whistle reps for the genre AND delivers skilled writing, tangy profane dialogue, a richly recognizable world, and tons of sensory detail. Too many PNRs feel like they could be any old rom-com with fangs or fins pasted on top. Not so here.
The romance works on the same level; it isn't schlocky, it's gritty: need, comfort, challenge, confrontation, hot spice, found family, tough communication, f*cking hot spice, laughter, longing, stupid jokes, self-discovery, the scent of your lover when nothing else will do. More spice. Did I say spice?
Johnny and Tay's story takes two characters who've been comic relief to date and gives them depth and sweetness (don't worry, they stay silly). The boys, who are both over 6 feet tall and ripped, are little emotional children when the book begins. By the end, they've grown up, grown together, and taken their places as leaders in the pack. Each member of Johnny and Tay's family is well-developed, warts and all, and feels like someone I want to know.
Highly, highly recommended. Do please read the books in order.
It's a P.S. vs. an important point, but I love how Whistle writes her characters as wolves. I live with two dogs and recognize them here.
April 17, 2026
The third book in the Omegaverse Case Files. I was so excited for this one and it did not disappoint ♡
Filled with all the amazing bits I love about this series- an intense police case to solve, the fun and exciting tension of omegaverse (with a new twist, HELLO alpha x alpha) & also the sweet evolution of a love story. A bit lighter on the darker subjects than the other 2 books but this fits Jonny & Taylor's chaotic energy to a T but still plenty of police procedural, past trauma & tense moments that give it the point of difference & make it equally grippy.
Jonny & Taylor's story is one side 14 years of yearning by Jonny & 14 years of being stupidly, adorably oblivious by Taylor. Jonny is the calm to Taylor's storm & tries his absolute best to keep him under control. Taylor is pure menace- bringing chaos everywhere he goes with Jonny helplessly following. I'm really not sure how they are police officers 😂 Their trouble lands them transferred to what should be a sleepy, unassuming retirement town.. only for them to end up in the middle of the biggest drug bust featuring drug crazed naked elderly omegas & a supermarket scene involving a wine bottle & a body cavity that has scorched itself into my brain.
Book 3 brings the humour in ten fold, I was losing my mind laughing and have lots of dry humour highlights to look back on but under the chaos & drama that unfolds is a tender story of found family, love & longing. Watching Jonny finally reveal his feelings & the cloud being lifted for Taylor was really sweet & these two are the real, ride or die deal. They start their sexual journey by almost squishing another guy they forget is even there & I would expect nothing less from these two. Emotional declarations of love collide with intense & sizzling spice as years of forged friendship & bond turn into more.
Taylor & Jonny aside I absolutely adored the new side characters in this book- the gang of dingly heath police are amazing & bring the comedic relief & another element of found family that I relished.
I'm so glad I stumbled upon this series & can't wait for more, I've read nothing like it before & it really is the best collision of genres.
Filled with all the amazing bits I love about this series- an intense police case to solve, the fun and exciting tension of omegaverse (with a new twist, HELLO alpha x alpha) & also the sweet evolution of a love story. A bit lighter on the darker subjects than the other 2 books but this fits Jonny & Taylor's chaotic energy to a T but still plenty of police procedural, past trauma & tense moments that give it the point of difference & make it equally grippy.
Jonny & Taylor's story is one side 14 years of yearning by Jonny & 14 years of being stupidly, adorably oblivious by Taylor. Jonny is the calm to Taylor's storm & tries his absolute best to keep him under control. Taylor is pure menace- bringing chaos everywhere he goes with Jonny helplessly following. I'm really not sure how they are police officers 😂 Their trouble lands them transferred to what should be a sleepy, unassuming retirement town.. only for them to end up in the middle of the biggest drug bust featuring drug crazed naked elderly omegas & a supermarket scene involving a wine bottle & a body cavity that has scorched itself into my brain.
Book 3 brings the humour in ten fold, I was losing my mind laughing and have lots of dry humour highlights to look back on but under the chaos & drama that unfolds is a tender story of found family, love & longing. Watching Jonny finally reveal his feelings & the cloud being lifted for Taylor was really sweet & these two are the real, ride or die deal. They start their sexual journey by almost squishing another guy they forget is even there & I would expect nothing less from these two. Emotional declarations of love collide with intense & sizzling spice as years of forged friendship & bond turn into more.
Taylor & Jonny aside I absolutely adored the new side characters in this book- the gang of dingly heath police are amazing & bring the comedic relief & another element of found family that I relished.
I'm so glad I stumbled upon this series & can't wait for more, I've read nothing like it before & it really is the best collision of genres.
April 19, 2026
It took some effort to finish this book—and honestly, by the 60% mark, I started skimming a bit.
I really liked the first book, the second one was good but a bit meh, and this third one was just... meh. I was bored. And I wasn’t really into Taylor and Johnny as a couple, not as much as I would have liked to be (I love friends-to-lovers trope). It took a while before I saw any chemistry between them.
If I pick up a childhood friends-to-lovers Omegaverse book, I don't want to read about casual threesomes, bunch of retirees -some of whom act horny, wrinkled tits, shit (literal shit), bad smells, and perverts who touch themselves in public places 😀 I mean, this book tried to take a really humorous approach, but I guess the humor in this one wasn't really my cup of tea. And then if the couple's banter and inner monologue goes like this:
“Sure. No worries. I’ll just go back to sniffing your dirty underwear.”
”You better be fucking joking.”
“Someone’s gotta tell you to start upping your fibre intake.”
”You filthy bastard.”
’Johnny was panting. Quietly. Shamelessly.
Understanding now why his parents had their room on the ground floor, away from everyone else.
Ew, fuck.’
Eeehh…
So, the plot of the book didn't interest me at all and some things I didn’t enjoy, but there was a lot of good here as well. Taylor and Johnny’s relationship developed nicely (after the boring start), and I wanted to read all their scenes. There were definitely some sweet, funny and steamy moments between them, and I really liked the ending. I also loved how Taylor was able to heal his inner child a bit by helping William. I also appreciate all the different, unique characters in this book series.
So I'm not saying the book is bad (therefore 3⭐️) but unfortunately, this one just wasn’t my favorite.
I really liked the first book, the second one was good but a bit meh, and this third one was just... meh. I was bored. And I wasn’t really into Taylor and Johnny as a couple, not as much as I would have liked to be (I love friends-to-lovers trope). It took a while before I saw any chemistry between them.
If I pick up a childhood friends-to-lovers Omegaverse book, I don't want to read about casual threesomes, bunch of retirees -some of whom act horny, wrinkled tits, shit (literal shit), bad smells, and perverts who touch themselves in public places 😀 I mean, this book tried to take a really humorous approach, but I guess the humor in this one wasn't really my cup of tea. And then if the couple's banter and inner monologue goes like this:
“Sure. No worries. I’ll just go back to sniffing your dirty underwear.”
”You better be fucking joking.”
“Someone’s gotta tell you to start upping your fibre intake.”
”You filthy bastard.”
’Johnny was panting. Quietly. Shamelessly.
Understanding now why his parents had their room on the ground floor, away from everyone else.
Ew, fuck.’
Eeehh…
So, the plot of the book didn't interest me at all and some things I didn’t enjoy, but there was a lot of good here as well. Taylor and Johnny’s relationship developed nicely (after the boring start), and I wanted to read all their scenes. There were definitely some sweet, funny and steamy moments between them, and I really liked the ending. I also loved how Taylor was able to heal his inner child a bit by helping William. I also appreciate all the different, unique characters in this book series.
So I'm not saying the book is bad (therefore 3⭐️) but unfortunately, this one just wasn’t my favorite.
April 18, 2026
Please, whatever deity or demon is listening, never let this series end. This was just an absolutely excellent installment into a series that I am completely obsessed with. Mayhaps I'd been shipping these two alphas since they were introduced and I'm so glad that this is how it was done. The pining and angst between Johnny and Taylor was so sweet. They worked so well together, both as friends and as mates.
We start this off with a note from the author warning that Taylor's ADHD may be off-putting to some readers and that may make him unlikeable. If you are offended in any way with Taylor, I'm going to need you to close the book and leave it alone. The way Taylor was written was like looking into a metaphorical mirror. Every concern, every negative thought towards his neurodivergence was so authentic. I loved Taylor immediately. That isn't to say that I didn't love Johnny just as much. I have ADHD, but I also see how my issues affect those around them so Johnny's responses to Taylor were just as well written. The romance felt slow burn. There may have been some declarations of love kind of early on, but there was a lot of back and forth, worrying, and claiming that one man wasn't good enough for the other. The romance was just so sweet and tender from start to finish.
As for the plot, it had fantastic pacing. It worked well with the romance and it had a fantastic tension built throughout. Beyond the romance, we also had great character dynamics with the Ateba pack and the way they loved and cared for each other. Johnny's mother and father were perfect. Honestly, just everything about this book, and this series as a whole, is exactly what I want with a queer shifter omegaverse romance.
We start this off with a note from the author warning that Taylor's ADHD may be off-putting to some readers and that may make him unlikeable. If you are offended in any way with Taylor, I'm going to need you to close the book and leave it alone. The way Taylor was written was like looking into a metaphorical mirror. Every concern, every negative thought towards his neurodivergence was so authentic. I loved Taylor immediately. That isn't to say that I didn't love Johnny just as much. I have ADHD, but I also see how my issues affect those around them so Johnny's responses to Taylor were just as well written. The romance felt slow burn. There may have been some declarations of love kind of early on, but there was a lot of back and forth, worrying, and claiming that one man wasn't good enough for the other. The romance was just so sweet and tender from start to finish.
As for the plot, it had fantastic pacing. It worked well with the romance and it had a fantastic tension built throughout. Beyond the romance, we also had great character dynamics with the Ateba pack and the way they loved and cared for each other. Johnny's mother and father were perfect. Honestly, just everything about this book, and this series as a whole, is exactly what I want with a queer shifter omegaverse romance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
"It was like pressing my mouth to a glass of cold water after years of walking in the desert. And I...I can't do it anymore, Tay. I need...I need to know if there's something more for us."
.
.
After Night Call, I can't begin to describe how excited I was for Johnny and Taylor's story. Needless to say, C.T Whistle hit a lot of marks for me with Lock Step. From the representation, to the found family, cameos from some of my faves, to banter unlike any other.
First and foremost, can we talk about the care and research that clearly went into Johnny's character. There were so many things to love, from highlighting their culture/background, the inclusion of French, and the conversations with Maman about leaving Cameroon. I absolutely adored Johnny's family/pack and their warmth. I loved their willingness to embrace Taylor and eventually William. Also, little things that meant so much to me as a BIPOC reader...Gab/Clem's bonnets, Cameroonian delicacies, and the care given in the depiction of a black character/family.
Now, onto the story itself... much like its predecessors, Lock Step has mystery, romance, and plenty of banter. I loved that we are transported to a new station and introduced to new characters. Watching Taylor and Johnny's friendship evolve into something more, whilst tackling a new mystery, kept me continually intrigued. Not to mention, I couldn't wait for them to take the next step. Truly, Lock Step is the perfect blend of friends-to-lovers, slow burn, and "it's always been you."
Overall, it's a heartwarming story that checked a lot of boxes for me. Also, that epilogue! As always, CT Whistle has me salivating for the next installment.
.
.
After Night Call, I can't begin to describe how excited I was for Johnny and Taylor's story. Needless to say, C.T Whistle hit a lot of marks for me with Lock Step. From the representation, to the found family, cameos from some of my faves, to banter unlike any other.
First and foremost, can we talk about the care and research that clearly went into Johnny's character. There were so many things to love, from highlighting their culture/background, the inclusion of French, and the conversations with Maman about leaving Cameroon. I absolutely adored Johnny's family/pack and their warmth. I loved their willingness to embrace Taylor and eventually William. Also, little things that meant so much to me as a BIPOC reader...Gab/Clem's bonnets, Cameroonian delicacies, and the care given in the depiction of a black character/family.
Now, onto the story itself... much like its predecessors, Lock Step has mystery, romance, and plenty of banter. I loved that we are transported to a new station and introduced to new characters. Watching Taylor and Johnny's friendship evolve into something more, whilst tackling a new mystery, kept me continually intrigued. Not to mention, I couldn't wait for them to take the next step. Truly, Lock Step is the perfect blend of friends-to-lovers, slow burn, and "it's always been you."
Overall, it's a heartwarming story that checked a lot of boxes for me. Also, that epilogue! As always, CT Whistle has me salivating for the next installment.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review // Releases April 16, 2026
I was so excited to read this third installment of The Omegaverse Case Files series focusing on two alphas, Johnny and Tay. They're lifelong best friends, live together, work together. The story starts with what they view as a demotion to a small town precinct, but big things happen while they're stationed there.
As far as detective stories go, this is one of the best (I can say the same about the first two books as well). Every case they're called in on fits in with the big mystery, even if it doesn't seem that way at first. It's technical in a way that's almost beurocratic and shows Whistle's own experience with the law (in the afterward they say they work in social care) which just ticks all my boxes.
The banter between all the characters is top tier. Where else would you read lines like
'“I think I preferred it when you were still hiding your feelings.”
Johnny shrugged again. “Sure. No worries. I’ll just go back to sniffing your dirty underwear.”'
And it doesn't slow down as the romance progresses. They maintain this almost brotherly sniping even through tender moments showing that you don't need to sacrifice character to make a scene work.
And the yearning... Don't even get me started. I vascilated between tears and crazy laughter at breakneck speeds as these boys bounce between heartbreak and searing affection.
Wouldn't say there's much of a plot twist, just a snapshot into their unfolding lives in a way that's satisying enough to wish the book was two times longer. There's comfort in these pages, and stakes high enough to keep you locked in.
Adding to my rainy day stack for sure 💕
I was so excited to read this third installment of The Omegaverse Case Files series focusing on two alphas, Johnny and Tay. They're lifelong best friends, live together, work together. The story starts with what they view as a demotion to a small town precinct, but big things happen while they're stationed there.
As far as detective stories go, this is one of the best (I can say the same about the first two books as well). Every case they're called in on fits in with the big mystery, even if it doesn't seem that way at first. It's technical in a way that's almost beurocratic and shows Whistle's own experience with the law (in the afterward they say they work in social care) which just ticks all my boxes.
The banter between all the characters is top tier. Where else would you read lines like
'“I think I preferred it when you were still hiding your feelings.”
Johnny shrugged again. “Sure. No worries. I’ll just go back to sniffing your dirty underwear.”'
And it doesn't slow down as the romance progresses. They maintain this almost brotherly sniping even through tender moments showing that you don't need to sacrifice character to make a scene work.
And the yearning... Don't even get me started. I vascilated between tears and crazy laughter at breakneck speeds as these boys bounce between heartbreak and searing affection.
Wouldn't say there's much of a plot twist, just a snapshot into their unfolding lives in a way that's satisying enough to wish the book was two times longer. There's comfort in these pages, and stakes high enough to keep you locked in.
Adding to my rainy day stack for sure 💕
April 20, 2026
Fun best friends to lovers, werewolf romance!
Y'all this book was so much fun! Johnny and Taylor are best friends who live and work together. They're so codependent and honestly kind of a mess. But there's something so endearing about them that you can't help but root for them. I thought we'd go on a journey and watch them fall for each other, but though I was a little surprised to find out that Johnny has been in love with Taylor for years, it makes sense that these two have been head over heels for each other forever.
It takes a little longer for Taylor to acknowledge his feelings (he really needed that threesome to figure things out), but even before that it's clear that his love for JP surpasses all others. They know each other better than they know themselves and are always there to give each other exactly what they need.
I also loved their relationship with their pack/family. The kids were honestly one of my favorite parts and I loved how involved JP and Taylor were in their lives. They're so protective and the moments we get to see them as wolves and as a pack were so special. It really emphasized the bond they share, with each other, and with their pack.
And I can't end this without mentioning their work crew! Isla, Amil and Wendy were such great additions to this series and I'm so excited for Amil's book next. I also have to mention the relationship Taylor built with William. The way Taylor saw himself in Will and took him under his wing was so beautiful and I just love that Will was able to find the care he'd been missing all his life.
JP and Taylor took us on quite the adventure. They're loyal and protective and love so deeply. From nail polish therapy to sharing clothes to their overprotective natures, I really enjoyed seeing them find their way to a HEA!
Y'all this book was so much fun! Johnny and Taylor are best friends who live and work together. They're so codependent and honestly kind of a mess. But there's something so endearing about them that you can't help but root for them. I thought we'd go on a journey and watch them fall for each other, but though I was a little surprised to find out that Johnny has been in love with Taylor for years, it makes sense that these two have been head over heels for each other forever.
It takes a little longer for Taylor to acknowledge his feelings (he really needed that threesome to figure things out), but even before that it's clear that his love for JP surpasses all others. They know each other better than they know themselves and are always there to give each other exactly what they need.
I also loved their relationship with their pack/family. The kids were honestly one of my favorite parts and I loved how involved JP and Taylor were in their lives. They're so protective and the moments we get to see them as wolves and as a pack were so special. It really emphasized the bond they share, with each other, and with their pack.
And I can't end this without mentioning their work crew! Isla, Amil and Wendy were such great additions to this series and I'm so excited for Amil's book next. I also have to mention the relationship Taylor built with William. The way Taylor saw himself in Will and took him under his wing was so beautiful and I just love that Will was able to find the care he'd been missing all his life.
JP and Taylor took us on quite the adventure. They're loyal and protective and love so deeply. From nail polish therapy to sharing clothes to their overprotective natures, I really enjoyed seeing them find their way to a HEA!
March 24, 2026
AlphaxAlpha isn't always my favorite but I thought the dynamic was done really well here. The moments between the MCs where it shifted to who was being the lead in a crisis (of many varieties, some more dramatic than others), was fun to read since you really got to see the true emotions come out. The friends to lovers was done well because I really felt like I knew their relationship from the first few chapters. The idiots to lovers was also done well, because damn sometimes I was like how have you both been going on like this for so long. The entire book was written to do justice to all the tropes, so if you're here for a ceratin dynamic then this is definitely the book for you.
However, the characters and thier story just felt a little lackluster to me. I wasn't as invested as in the previous books. The plot just didn't grab me as much, but the book did fly by, I definitely don't think it dragged at all for being on the longer side. Where there were only short Pember and Blake cameo moments, the side characters introduced mostly made up for it. I would have loved a little more cameo though (just a personal preference here). I really loved the scenes with the family but, same as Taylor's ADHD, they felt a little underdeveloped, especially the William situation. SO, overall it was pretty balanced for me with things I enjoyed and things just felt a little meh, so 3 stars!
*I recieved a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
However, the characters and thier story just felt a little lackluster to me. I wasn't as invested as in the previous books. The plot just didn't grab me as much, but the book did fly by, I definitely don't think it dragged at all for being on the longer side. Where there were only short Pember and Blake cameo moments, the side characters introduced mostly made up for it. I would have loved a little more cameo though (just a personal preference here). I really loved the scenes with the family but, same as Taylor's ADHD, they felt a little underdeveloped, especially the William situation. SO, overall it was pretty balanced for me with things I enjoyed and things just felt a little meh, so 3 stars!
*I recieved a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Alpha x Alpha may well be my new Kryptonite.
I love Omegaverse, but there's something about two best friends who both happen to be alphas that just does it for me.
Taylor is a mess, quite frankly. Sure, he has ADHD that is so intense at times it completely details him, and sure, he's had some major mess ups at work, but that's not why he's a mess. No. That would be because he's in love with his best friend and just hasn't realised it.
J-P on the other hand is painfully aware of how in love with Taylor he is, but he thinks its one-sided. Cue a lot of pining and self denial.
There's a moment where Taylor gets carried away in a stressful situation, and J-P has to fight his every instinct to do what he has wanted to do for years and the pain and emotion in that scene had me tearing up.
As the book goes on, the cast of family and colleagues bring their own magic to this book (Marty and William has my heart and I want their next generation love story like I want a million quid).
Another great addition to this series, and possibly my favourite? I did feel some kind of way about Pember and Blake and all the others from Books 1 and 2 after the way they treat Taylor and J-P, but in the end, it all worked out right.
I adore this book, this series, and the way the author manages to make her books so authentically British, funny, and still emotionally weighted.
Fantastic read and an easy 5-star.
I love Omegaverse, but there's something about two best friends who both happen to be alphas that just does it for me.
Taylor is a mess, quite frankly. Sure, he has ADHD that is so intense at times it completely details him, and sure, he's had some major mess ups at work, but that's not why he's a mess. No. That would be because he's in love with his best friend and just hasn't realised it.
J-P on the other hand is painfully aware of how in love with Taylor he is, but he thinks its one-sided. Cue a lot of pining and self denial.
There's a moment where Taylor gets carried away in a stressful situation, and J-P has to fight his every instinct to do what he has wanted to do for years and the pain and emotion in that scene had me tearing up.
As the book goes on, the cast of family and colleagues bring their own magic to this book (Marty and William has my heart and I want their next generation love story like I want a million quid).
Another great addition to this series, and possibly my favourite? I did feel some kind of way about Pember and Blake and all the others from Books 1 and 2 after the way they treat Taylor and J-P, but in the end, it all worked out right.
I adore this book, this series, and the way the author manages to make her books so authentically British, funny, and still emotionally weighted.
Fantastic read and an easy 5-star.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have been really anticipating this book, I devoured the first two a few months ago and loved them. It's the perfect blend of procedural tv showes and mm, and I loved how the author managed to bring a new prespective to Omegaverse world building. That being said this was not as good as I anticipated, not necessarily a bad read, just not the same pace of the first two.
I think part of it is trying to show Taylor's ADHD and incorporate it into every action he makes. It makes sense, but it sort of gave me a feeling of being overwhelmed with different aspects of his personality quirks and sometimes I felt like things could have been fleshed out better.
I also felt really bad for JP, how he had to internalize so much of his emotions. When everything came to light finally, I felt like it was in a part of the story so many other things where already happening it didn't get the chance for them to really talk it through, it felt a bit rushed.
I did like the story and relationship, and I love the Ateba family and their dynamic, and the banter between all characters- especially Amil and Sarge.
And I also admit that the events in book 2, the crime and what exactly happened are a bit unclear, like I know who did what but I didn't full remember the specifics. These do play a role in this book and the next, and a reminder would have helped me grasp things better.
Waiting for more books from this author, in this series and whatever new direction writing will lead.
I think part of it is trying to show Taylor's ADHD and incorporate it into every action he makes. It makes sense, but it sort of gave me a feeling of being overwhelmed with different aspects of his personality quirks and sometimes I felt like things could have been fleshed out better.
I also felt really bad for JP, how he had to internalize so much of his emotions. When everything came to light finally, I felt like it was in a part of the story so many other things where already happening it didn't get the chance for them to really talk it through, it felt a bit rushed.
I did like the story and relationship, and I love the Ateba family and their dynamic, and the banter between all characters- especially Amil and Sarge.
And I also admit that the events in book 2, the crime and what exactly happened are a bit unclear, like I know who did what but I didn't full remember the specifics. These do play a role in this book and the next, and a reminder would have helped me grasp things better.
Waiting for more books from this author, in this series and whatever new direction writing will lead.
Review of advance copy received from Author
JP and Taylor have my heart! This series is phenomenal and this book again blew me away. CT Whistle has such a distinct style of writing- combining sub genres and plot lines that flow effortlessly for the reader making it hard to out down but most importantly I think for me is the complex humanity that they imbue their characters with, the challenges they pose to them, forcing them to evolve to grow to seize the opportunity for courage and happiness.
I see shifter omegaverse and a crime plot with best friends to lovers and a mile wide protective streak and I’m already sold because that in itself is unique but the emotions always find me I’m surprised by how much I feel when a character’s insecurity is comforted and cushioned or there is happy large family dynamic or a little boy has a happier life to look forward to that what they have been struggling with
Ofcourse then there is the romance plot, the pining, oh gosh the pininggggggg I am a puddle. And let me tell you even before the burn in the slow burn these two are HOT And swoony and mushy and codependent and beautiful together - absolute sigh worthy!!
I always appreciate how fast the crime plot moves, I loved the little precinct family - Wendy Amil Isla and the hedgehogs 🦔
All the stars for this story, I loved every single part of it t
I see shifter omegaverse and a crime plot with best friends to lovers and a mile wide protective streak and I’m already sold because that in itself is unique but the emotions always find me I’m surprised by how much I feel when a character’s insecurity is comforted and cushioned or there is happy large family dynamic or a little boy has a happier life to look forward to that what they have been struggling with
Ofcourse then there is the romance plot, the pining, oh gosh the pininggggggg I am a puddle. And let me tell you even before the burn in the slow burn these two are HOT And swoony and mushy and codependent and beautiful together - absolute sigh worthy!!
I always appreciate how fast the crime plot moves, I loved the little precinct family - Wendy Amil Isla and the hedgehogs 🦔
All the stars for this story, I loved every single part of it t
April 19, 2026
Do you love omegaverse? Do you love quirky British humor? Do you love police procedurals? If you answered yes to any of these, then you should read this book. If omegaverse and the movie Hot Fuzz had a baby it would be Lock Step. But with more spice, of course.
Lock Step is book 3 in the Omegaverse Case Files series. Can this be read on its own? Sure. Should you? Um, heck no. Read all the books. Read them all. C.T. Whistle has created an intriguing world of omegaverse characters who are all finding themselves in their own way. This book features two Alpha characters Taylor and Johnny, who have been best friends since childhood. They are also partners in law enforcement who have been reassigned to a police a small seemingly quiet community.
In the midst of investigating some suspicious circumstances in this town, Johnny and Taylor navigate a more-than-friendship love. I loved their story so much. This book has everything I love in a best friends to lovers story: the pining, the fear of rejection, the jealously, the sweetness of it all. In addition to all of that, there is a the extra layer of how they can successfully maneuver an alpha/alpha relationship.
Lock Step was such a wonderful story. I cannot wait for the next installment in this series. They are all truly a delight to read.
Lock Step is book 3 in the Omegaverse Case Files series. Can this be read on its own? Sure. Should you? Um, heck no. Read all the books. Read them all. C.T. Whistle has created an intriguing world of omegaverse characters who are all finding themselves in their own way. This book features two Alpha characters Taylor and Johnny, who have been best friends since childhood. They are also partners in law enforcement who have been reassigned to a police a small seemingly quiet community.
In the midst of investigating some suspicious circumstances in this town, Johnny and Taylor navigate a more-than-friendship love. I loved their story so much. This book has everything I love in a best friends to lovers story: the pining, the fear of rejection, the jealously, the sweetness of it all. In addition to all of that, there is a the extra layer of how they can successfully maneuver an alpha/alpha relationship.
Lock Step was such a wonderful story. I cannot wait for the next installment in this series. They are all truly a delight to read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’m in love with this entire series! With each story, C.T. Whistle uncovers more secrets and reveals new connections, weaving a story with depth, complexity, and unfathomable intricacy. It’s captivating, exciting, and above all entertaining, with a found family and pack dynamic that will capture your heart.
This installment delivers the best friends to lovers romance I didn’t know I needed between Taylor and John-Paul. These two have been through it and reached a turning point: continue as they’ve been or face their fears and grab hold of what they need. Their recent reassignment gives them a fresh start, but I’m not 100% sure they’re on the same page about what comes next.
To say this starts with unrequited love is an understatement. The pining - SO. MUCH. PINING. - I wasn’t sure I’d make it. It’s a lot working through the many layers of Johnny and Taylor’s relationship, and the emotional toll packs a punch. But when the pieces finally begin falling into place, all the pain and uncertainty are worth it - these two are the sweetest, most devoted friends and lovers, and seeing them finally acknowledge what’s between them is everything.
The mystery in this one is intense and definitely keeps things interesting. I wasn’t sure what to expect when they were reassigned to Dingly Heath, but it makes sense that a sleepy little retirement community would be hiding secrets of its own. Never a dull moment! The overarching plot around omega justice also continues to thicken, and I’m excited to see where it goes next.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
This installment delivers the best friends to lovers romance I didn’t know I needed between Taylor and John-Paul. These two have been through it and reached a turning point: continue as they’ve been or face their fears and grab hold of what they need. Their recent reassignment gives them a fresh start, but I’m not 100% sure they’re on the same page about what comes next.
To say this starts with unrequited love is an understatement. The pining - SO. MUCH. PINING. - I wasn’t sure I’d make it. It’s a lot working through the many layers of Johnny and Taylor’s relationship, and the emotional toll packs a punch. But when the pieces finally begin falling into place, all the pain and uncertainty are worth it - these two are the sweetest, most devoted friends and lovers, and seeing them finally acknowledge what’s between them is everything.
The mystery in this one is intense and definitely keeps things interesting. I wasn’t sure what to expect when they were reassigned to Dingly Heath, but it makes sense that a sleepy little retirement community would be hiding secrets of its own. Never a dull moment! The overarching plot around omega justice also continues to thicken, and I’m excited to see where it goes next.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
Review of advance copy received from Author
This series is unputdownable! Seriously what is in these books??
Lock Step follows two alpha cops who have had a string of absolute fuck ups recently that has landed them relegated to the sleepy, old town of Dingly Heath with a merry band of rejects. It’s meant to be a boring purgatory until they can get their act together and get back on the special teams force. But things aren’t so boring after all…
Taylor and Johnny have been best friends since childhood when Johnny’s pack took Taylor in. They’re practically brothers, except Johnny has decidedly unbrotherly feelings towards Taylor, who is a known playboy and seems to only like omegas. As their time in Dingly Heath becomes more chaotic, so does their relationship. With Taylor not truly understanding his feelings and Johnny unable to deny his anymore. Luckily, Johnny has a better head on his shoulders for the most part and Taylor lands safely with him.
What really takes the cake in this book is the representation. I loved reading about Johnny’s family, his Cameroon roots, and the author’s care of truly developing his character. Taylor also has ADHD which was handled so well and it was fascinating to be in his mind. There’s a range of side characters who I’m excited to explore in future books as well.
Again, the quick banter was so fun! It brings levity to an otherwise heavy plot. However, I struggled with the chemistry between Taylor and Johnny - it took a backseat to the plot and character development. So while I’m glad they got their happy ending, that wasn’t the biggest hook of the book.
I can’t write this review with mentioning ACAB. Taylor and Johnny definitely abuse their power and there are distinct instances of police brutality.
Received an eARC from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lock Step follows two alpha cops who have had a string of absolute fuck ups recently that has landed them relegated to the sleepy, old town of Dingly Heath with a merry band of rejects. It’s meant to be a boring purgatory until they can get their act together and get back on the special teams force. But things aren’t so boring after all…
Taylor and Johnny have been best friends since childhood when Johnny’s pack took Taylor in. They’re practically brothers, except Johnny has decidedly unbrotherly feelings towards Taylor, who is a known playboy and seems to only like omegas. As their time in Dingly Heath becomes more chaotic, so does their relationship. With Taylor not truly understanding his feelings and Johnny unable to deny his anymore. Luckily, Johnny has a better head on his shoulders for the most part and Taylor lands safely with him.
What really takes the cake in this book is the representation. I loved reading about Johnny’s family, his Cameroon roots, and the author’s care of truly developing his character. Taylor also has ADHD which was handled so well and it was fascinating to be in his mind. There’s a range of side characters who I’m excited to explore in future books as well.
Again, the quick banter was so fun! It brings levity to an otherwise heavy plot. However, I struggled with the chemistry between Taylor and Johnny - it took a backseat to the plot and character development. So while I’m glad they got their happy ending, that wasn’t the biggest hook of the book.
I can’t write this review with mentioning ACAB. Taylor and Johnny definitely abuse their power and there are distinct instances of police brutality.
Received an eARC from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advance copy received from Author
This review may contain minor spoilers
I think Taylor is an underrated character.
This is a fun book...definite laugh out loud moments. Lock Step is much tamer with regards to the specific crime(s), but the interactions between characters is just as passionate and witty as the first two books. In fact, the family aspect showcased in this book felt refreshing and provided tonal levity to the overarching themes of the series. JP’s family is the sweetest. After getting to know Taylor’s upbringing, it makes me so happy to know that he found a place with a family like JP’s. And on the topic of JP and Taylor…who doesn’t love a best friends to lovers situation. They are super sweet to each other. I honestly don’t know which character I loved more. I could physically feel the tension and Taylor’s emotions peaking during that attack scene.
It was also a joy to get to see Pember and Blake make cameos in this book. Readers should definitely prepare for book 4 though because the themes will get heavier again with Ru’s story.
This review may contain minor spoilers
I think Taylor is an underrated character.
"Did you seriously just call me a tall drink of water?"
This is a fun book...definite laugh out loud moments. Lock Step is much tamer with regards to the specific crime(s), but the interactions between characters is just as passionate and witty as the first two books. In fact, the family aspect showcased in this book felt refreshing and provided tonal levity to the overarching themes of the series. JP’s family is the sweetest. After getting to know Taylor’s upbringing, it makes me so happy to know that he found a place with a family like JP’s. And on the topic of JP and Taylor…who doesn’t love a best friends to lovers situation. They are super sweet to each other. I honestly don’t know which character I loved more. I could physically feel the tension and Taylor’s emotions peaking during that attack scene.
It was also a joy to get to see Pember and Blake make cameos in this book. Readers should definitely prepare for book 4 though because the themes will get heavier again with Ru’s story.
Review of advance copy
I have to say that out of all the ways I thought this story would progress I was continuously surprised and thoroughly enamored. This story was on a mission from start to end. Johnny and Taylor had my heart swooning the entire time. Especially Johnny! Oh, my sweet baby. I haven't had an omegaverse series where I am constantly captivated throughout the entire story quite like this authors stories. I really enjoy the friends to lovers troupe but this story was extra special in the way I felt connected and invested in my couples HEA. I laughed and kicked my feet throughout this book, but I also felt so emotional toward the end. This is my third book by C. T. Whistle and they are hands down a master at bringing out character development and relationships. I will continue to be an avid reader so long as they write. I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC in returns for an honest review. I look forward to reading more of their work in the near future.
Troupes:
Friends to lovers
Inside jokes
Idiots in love
Work place romance
Rut
Long time yearning X I finally see you
crushing for years
Us against the world vibes
Alpha X Alpha
Troupes:
Friends to lovers
Inside jokes
Idiots in love
Work place romance
Rut
Long time yearning X I finally see you
crushing for years
Us against the world vibes
Alpha X Alpha
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have loved this series and was go glad it was recommended to me in another author's newsletter. I love that it combines elements of m/m romance, paranormal, and a crime procedural. The author really has a talent for world building and diverse characters. That being said, I would definitely recommend reading the content warnings before diving in since the author doesn't gloss over some of the more unsavory aspects or mental health, addiction, and the criminal justice system. I wasn't sure if I was going to like this book as much as the previous two with the way the two main characters were depicted in the first two books. I ended up really enjoying this book, but it was definitely a bit difficult to get into at first. I think the reason I had trouble, is that Taylor's character comes off as really unlikeable (especially at the beginning). While I do think he finds his footing in the story, my one real complaint is that some of the more problematic aspects of his character aren't really dealt with in a meaningful way. Overall, a really great read and I can't wait to continue the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The "omegaverse case file" have kept me drawn in from the beginning. I loved hammer and gavel that I felt I was in a book slump until Night call came out, and now this one.
Alpha x alpha books aren't usually my favourite read, but this one is exciting and steamy! Each MC is their own kind of alpha, very much macho, needs to be hear kind of way, but subtly different. With Taylor having past trauma and ADHD, his mind and thoughts are well developed and explained. Friends to lovers is a trope that really makes me want to yell, but because of the alpha x alpha situation, it was handled with the least amount of hair pulling frustration. You understand the stigma and the reluctance, but sometimes fate pushes people together.
There's not a lot of side characters from the first two. Pember and blake show up for a very small time, and reference to Ru and Isla from their book, but it doesn't seem as connected as the other two did. There are great secondary characters introduced in this one, Johnny and Taylor's family are a riot!
I loved the story, wanted a bit more interconnectedness from the other two, but other wise a well and exciting read
Alpha x alpha books aren't usually my favourite read, but this one is exciting and steamy! Each MC is their own kind of alpha, very much macho, needs to be hear kind of way, but subtly different. With Taylor having past trauma and ADHD, his mind and thoughts are well developed and explained. Friends to lovers is a trope that really makes me want to yell, but because of the alpha x alpha situation, it was handled with the least amount of hair pulling frustration. You understand the stigma and the reluctance, but sometimes fate pushes people together.
There's not a lot of side characters from the first two. Pember and blake show up for a very small time, and reference to Ru and Isla from their book, but it doesn't seem as connected as the other two did. There are great secondary characters introduced in this one, Johnny and Taylor's family are a riot!
I loved the story, wanted a bit more interconnectedness from the other two, but other wise a well and exciting read
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 rounded up
Lock Step is the third book in the Omegaverse Case Files series.
Now it's JP and Taylor's turn, two alphas and best friends since childhood who work together as police officers, so much so that Taylor is part of JP's pack.
This one really hits hard, with JP, who has always, always been by Taylor’s side, someone who grew up in a large, loving family and yet still felt a little disconnected. (And he's been in love with Taylor for half his life) . Taylor, on the other hand, didn’t find that until he met JP and joined his pack, because his childhood was very, very rough.
They both work at the same police station until they're transferred to a small town in the countryside where nothing ever happens, or does it? Here we have the case of the book, It takes a little while to get going, because all the characters have to be introduced first.
I like how the books are connected, the main characters from the previous one always appear, which gives a greater sense of continuity and cohesion. In this case, Pember and Blake.
I really enjoyed it and I can't wait for the fourth one
Lock Step is the third book in the Omegaverse Case Files series.
Now it's JP and Taylor's turn, two alphas and best friends since childhood who work together as police officers, so much so that Taylor is part of JP's pack.
This one really hits hard, with JP, who has always, always been by Taylor’s side, someone who grew up in a large, loving family and yet still felt a little disconnected. (And he's been in love with Taylor for half his life) . Taylor, on the other hand, didn’t find that until he met JP and joined his pack, because his childhood was very, very rough.
They both work at the same police station until they're transferred to a small town in the countryside where nothing ever happens, or does it? Here we have the case of the book, It takes a little while to get going, because all the characters have to be introduced first.
I like how the books are connected, the main characters from the previous one always appear, which gives a greater sense of continuity and cohesion. In this case, Pember and Blake.
I really enjoyed it and I can't wait for the fourth one
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved. C.T. Whistle burst onto the scene with "Hammer & Gavel" and just keeps on putting out hits; "Lock Step" was a sweet, yearn-y, funny, at times shocking story that's every bit as solid as its predecessors. This time, Whistle took a swing at friends-to-lovers, and while things did feel a bit shaky at the beginning (I had a little trouble getting on Taylor's side, character-wise), by the end I was rooting for... well, basically everyone. Johnny and Taylor, Isla, William, Wendy (get it, girl), Amir...
Whistle has such a talent for creating a cast of believable and compelling (and often hilarious) side characters and I swear, it makes it so there are no boring scenes. There's not a setting in this story that I didn't want to spend time in -- though some were particularly great. I could have followed tiny little warrior goddesses Clem and Gabby around for a few hundred pages and been thrilled about it.
Whistle has such a talent for creating a cast of believable and compelling (and often hilarious) side characters and I swear, it makes it so there are no boring scenes. There's not a setting in this story that I didn't want to spend time in -- though some were particularly great. I could have followed tiny little warrior goddesses Clem and Gabby around for a few hundred pages and been thrilled about it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews