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Alaskan Pebble Gifters #5
A Handkerchief for Kade
Companion wanted for an old and ornery card player.
All I want is a clever person to play cards with at night. No funny business. You sleep in your bed, and I’ll sleep in mine. Must be clean, quiet, sober, and willing to go to bed at a reasonable hour. A preference will be given to applicants who can play cribbage and gin rummy.
Sure, Kade wouldn’t normally consider a position as a companion for a polar bear shifter sentenced to a life in the oil fields of Alaska’s North Slope. But he’s broke. And the pay is good.
He doesn’t expect the “ornery card player” to be so handsome. Or sweet.
Before long, Kade wishes some “funny business” was an option. Especially when he goes into heat two weeks early...
A Handkerchief for Kade is an age gap romance with an omega who loves makeup, D/s, and MPreg of the penguin egg variety. It’s book five of the Alaskan Pebble Gifters series, and will only make sense if you’ve read the other books.
All I want is a clever person to play cards with at night. No funny business. You sleep in your bed, and I’ll sleep in mine. Must be clean, quiet, sober, and willing to go to bed at a reasonable hour. A preference will be given to applicants who can play cribbage and gin rummy.
Sure, Kade wouldn’t normally consider a position as a companion for a polar bear shifter sentenced to a life in the oil fields of Alaska’s North Slope. But he’s broke. And the pay is good.
He doesn’t expect the “ornery card player” to be so handsome. Or sweet.
Before long, Kade wishes some “funny business” was an option. Especially when he goes into heat two weeks early...
A Handkerchief for Kade is an age gap romance with an omega who loves makeup, D/s, and MPreg of the penguin egg variety. It’s book five of the Alaskan Pebble Gifters series, and will only make sense if you’ve read the other books.
322 pages, Paperback
First published August 28, 2020
152 people are currently reading
222 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
October 5, 2025
This was intense and traumatic and beautiful and I cried 💙
February 21, 2023
Reread/Relisten: February 2023
Same as before, this is my favorite of the series besides Bens! I do wish this had a longer ending but overall a great book!
3.5-4 stars: October 2022
why when i get really into any of Amy Bellow's books the end is so abrupt to me. it has happened multiple times that i should learn by now haha. Like i get so lost in the audio/book itself that when i go to turn the next page thinking there will be another chapter its over haha. idk if that is just me or if others have felt that way too.
but this book was so much better than Sam and Lu's book. Kade and Otis were great together. i loved how they started out and the way they became a couple.
i can't wait to read the last book of this series, i will miss this world, but i will move on to other Amy Bellow books that is for sure.
Same as before, this is my favorite of the series besides Bens! I do wish this had a longer ending but overall a great book!
3.5-4 stars: October 2022
why when i get really into any of Amy Bellow's books the end is so abrupt to me. it has happened multiple times that i should learn by now haha. Like i get so lost in the audio/book itself that when i go to turn the next page thinking there will be another chapter its over haha. idk if that is just me or if others have felt that way too.
but this book was so much better than Sam and Lu's book. Kade and Otis were great together. i loved how they started out and the way they became a couple.
i can't wait to read the last book of this series, i will miss this world, but i will move on to other Amy Bellow books that is for sure.
September 6, 2020
Entertaining, descriptive and fun read. The author, Amy Bellows, says this is a bit of fun, and not meant to be taken too seriously, because there really is a North Slope in Alaska, but our story here is a magical, emotional tale.
Kade, 22, a "fairy Penguin" with blue hair,
make-up and eye liner, who has a semi-successful channel on you tube for make-up. His brother disapproves of Kade's choices, but we learn that Kade's insecurities go way back.
Otis, 40, a polar bear shifter, places an ad for a companion
to come to the Slope, where sentenced "rager" bears are sent to work a grueling job for the Guild. His brother has campaigned to get Otis sent home.
Kade answers the ad because he needs the money, and feels unwanted at home. He meets Otis, and Otis likes him, as they slowly get to know each other, play cards, and deal with Slope life. Kade has lots to learn. He learns about the life there, meals, people, the politics, work and rewards. Kade is so adorable in his naivety and happy attitudes.
Otis likes him and slowly they get cuddles and later kinky, sexy times, and a bit of Daddy/boy, D/s. Otis is a great protector and provider.
When someone leaves the Slope, it's usually a suicide walk, but someone survives, and Otis's brother wants him to escape, too, to get away from the Guild's grip. So, he and Kade leave on the difficult journey.
Kade's fairy penguin nesting is so fun and he's determined. It is heartwarming how Otis handles it, and makes us happy for them. The sexy role play was a surprise.
We get hints of what is coming up in the series, and the epilogue is lovely.
ENJOY !
=======
MPreg, shifters, suicidal talk, kinky sex, older/younger.
========
Kade, 22, a "fairy Penguin" with blue hair,
make-up and eye liner, who has a semi-successful channel on you tube for make-up. His brother disapproves of Kade's choices, but we learn that Kade's insecurities go way back.
Otis, 40, a polar bear shifter, places an ad for a companion
to come to the Slope, where sentenced "rager" bears are sent to work a grueling job for the Guild. His brother has campaigned to get Otis sent home.
Kade answers the ad because he needs the money, and feels unwanted at home. He meets Otis, and Otis likes him, as they slowly get to know each other, play cards, and deal with Slope life. Kade has lots to learn. He learns about the life there, meals, people, the politics, work and rewards. Kade is so adorable in his naivety and happy attitudes.
Otis likes him and slowly they get cuddles and later kinky, sexy times, and a bit of Daddy/boy, D/s. Otis is a great protector and provider.
When someone leaves the Slope, it's usually a suicide walk, but someone survives, and Otis's brother wants him to escape, too, to get away from the Guild's grip. So, he and Kade leave on the difficult journey.
Kade's fairy penguin nesting is so fun and he's determined. It is heartwarming how Otis handles it, and makes us happy for them. The sexy role play was a surprise.
We get hints of what is coming up in the series, and the epilogue is lovely.
ENJOY !
=======
MPreg, shifters, suicidal talk, kinky sex, older/younger.
========
August 1, 2021
UPDATE Audiobook reviewed on August 1, 2021
Zachary Zaba narration and audio production was superb .
Heartfelt. Funny. Sexy.
I had a great time reading this entertaining , delightful , hot , paranormal , shifter , romance story.
A Handkerchief for Kade is another superb and entertaining addition to the Alaskan Pebble Gifters.
I am truly in awe with this author creativity and imagination . The world she has built for this series continues to grow in an organic and natural matter. It's strong foundations easily support all it's layers; they only get stronger, more intriguing , compelling and rich with each new book.
Read it , you're going to love it. I know I did .
Zachary Zaba narration and audio production was superb .
Heartfelt. Funny. Sexy.
I had a great time reading this entertaining , delightful , hot , paranormal , shifter , romance story.
A Handkerchief for Kade is another superb and entertaining addition to the Alaskan Pebble Gifters.
I am truly in awe with this author creativity and imagination . The world she has built for this series continues to grow in an organic and natural matter. It's strong foundations easily support all it's layers; they only get stronger, more intriguing , compelling and rich with each new book.
Read it , you're going to love it. I know I did .
September 5, 2020
Probably my favorite so far. Give me any story where the establishment is challenged, when there is a highlight on the injustice of overly long or harsh prison (or work camp) sentences and I'm already predisposed to like it.
And like my last note/highlight laments: PLEASE, AMY, GIVE US HERON 2 ASAP!
And like my last note/highlight laments: PLEASE, AMY, GIVE US HERON 2 ASAP!
September 6, 2020
What an emotional journey.
Moving away would be much better, so his brother can live with his mate. But with no money, it’s not easy. When twenty-two-year-old Kade finds an ad where someone wants to pay for a companion to play cards he’s in. No one wants him as a Little blue fairy penguin, so living on the Slope shouldn’t matter.
Otis at forty years, a polar bear shifter, is incarcerated to live on the Slope. He has to manage his anger or he’ll end up in jail for a long long time. Maybe companion will keep him at ease.
After being together when Kade got in heat nothing will ever be the same.
Otis is a Dominant Daddy and when he understands Kade loves to be his boy and is also into kink, it getting better and better.
“It’s the circle of life. We’re conceived, we live, then we die.”
A life sentence at the Slope is unbearable, would there ever be a chance to freedom.
I cried so hard when Otis finally meets his brother and partner again after all those years of hate and anger. The sacrifices omg they were heartbreaking, devastating.
The story is complicated as in difficult family matters, environments, circumstances, and big decisions. All the information is clear so it’s easy to visualize everything, past and present.
The story is about acceptance, embrace who you are, love who you love, and about second chances, justice, redeeming, and forgiveness. The beautiful traditions at heydays are impressively and intense. The sexual parts are amazing!
A nesting pregnant penguin shifter is the most adorable creature ever and a polar bear partner so awesome!
Never give up hope! This was a more than wonderful narrative!
Moving away would be much better, so his brother can live with his mate. But with no money, it’s not easy. When twenty-two-year-old Kade finds an ad where someone wants to pay for a companion to play cards he’s in. No one wants him as a Little blue fairy penguin, so living on the Slope shouldn’t matter.
Otis at forty years, a polar bear shifter, is incarcerated to live on the Slope. He has to manage his anger or he’ll end up in jail for a long long time. Maybe companion will keep him at ease.
After being together when Kade got in heat nothing will ever be the same.
Otis is a Dominant Daddy and when he understands Kade loves to be his boy and is also into kink, it getting better and better.
“It’s the circle of life. We’re conceived, we live, then we die.”
A life sentence at the Slope is unbearable, would there ever be a chance to freedom.
I cried so hard when Otis finally meets his brother and partner again after all those years of hate and anger. The sacrifices omg they were heartbreaking, devastating.
The story is complicated as in difficult family matters, environments, circumstances, and big decisions. All the information is clear so it’s easy to visualize everything, past and present.
The story is about acceptance, embrace who you are, love who you love, and about second chances, justice, redeeming, and forgiveness. The beautiful traditions at heydays are impressively and intense. The sexual parts are amazing!
A nesting pregnant penguin shifter is the most adorable creature ever and a polar bear partner so awesome!
Never give up hope! This was a more than wonderful narrative!
November 22, 2024
Ok, I lied, THIS is my favorite of the series lol
January 18, 2021
Another good installment in this series. Most of this one takes place in the exile/work prison of the North Slope so it did have a bit of a different feel to it, but it still brought out the emotions and maintained the usual tension, sweetness, chemistry, fun, and kink that the others brought.
Kade is a fairy penguin which is different from the other penguin shifters in the series so far. He's in over his head from the start, but determined to fix his life on his own. Otis was sentenced to the North Slope 10 years ago and is having a companion forced upon him since he hasn't gotten his temper out of control. The two are complete opposites to start but Otis isn't nearly as ornery as he says and even though he doesn't want Kade there, he's still caring. Kade is adorable and didn't have a great life growing up but is really hoping that he can forge some sort of relationship with Otis.
There's a bit of darkness here, lots of family issues and some super smoking kink. There's not as much forward motion regarding the overarching magic plot, but there is a firm plan to move forward to try and change the way the ragers and other marginalized members of the shifter community are treated. You definitely should not read this series out of order, but I think for fans of the series, this will be another winner.
Kade is a fairy penguin which is different from the other penguin shifters in the series so far. He's in over his head from the start, but determined to fix his life on his own. Otis was sentenced to the North Slope 10 years ago and is having a companion forced upon him since he hasn't gotten his temper out of control. The two are complete opposites to start but Otis isn't nearly as ornery as he says and even though he doesn't want Kade there, he's still caring. Kade is adorable and didn't have a great life growing up but is really hoping that he can forge some sort of relationship with Otis.
There's a bit of darkness here, lots of family issues and some super smoking kink. There's not as much forward motion regarding the overarching magic plot, but there is a firm plan to move forward to try and change the way the ragers and other marginalized members of the shifter community are treated. You definitely should not read this series out of order, but I think for fans of the series, this will be another winner.
November 7, 2022
Not my favorite couple of the series, but the plot is unfolding!
Some card playing, a little bit of breath play, backpacks for nesting. Also, very cute getting to see the fairy penguin shifters with blue hair. Daddy too!
Some card playing, a little bit of breath play, backpacks for nesting. Also, very cute getting to see the fairy penguin shifters with blue hair. Daddy too!
September 5, 2020
ᖴᗩIᖇY ᑭᗴᑎᘜᑌIᑎᔕ ᑎOᗯ ᕼᗩᐯᗴ ᗩᒪᒪ ᗰY ᒪOᐯᗴ
Oᗰᘜ @ an Oxford comma. If only everyone could choose their mate based on the knowledge and proper use of the Oxford Comma.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
‘I have a lot of love to give someone, if only they wanted it. If only they wanted me.’
Amy Bellows writes desperation like no one else. I fall completely head over heart for her characters.
ᗴᐯᗴᖇY. ᔕIᑎᘜᒪᗴ. TIᗰᗴ.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
I didn’t think there’d be anything cuter than the “Pillow Man”. Of course, I was wrong!! Kade in heat is absofreakinlutely adorable!!
‘Co**s don’t like to be dry. It makes them sad.’
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
This book has the ᔕᗯᗴᗴTᗴᔕT Daddy/boy elements EVER. The absolute ᗷᗴᔕT laying scene. And the hurt/comfort and forgiveness is soul wrenching.
I’ve never before highlighted or added notes in a book. Until this one.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
And yes, Amy Bellows; I ᑕᖇIᗴᗪ.
Oᗰᘜ @ an Oxford comma. If only everyone could choose their mate based on the knowledge and proper use of the Oxford Comma.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
‘I have a lot of love to give someone, if only they wanted it. If only they wanted me.’
Amy Bellows writes desperation like no one else. I fall completely head over heart for her characters.
ᗴᐯᗴᖇY. ᔕIᑎᘜᒪᗴ. TIᗰᗴ.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
I didn’t think there’d be anything cuter than the “Pillow Man”. Of course, I was wrong!! Kade in heat is absofreakinlutely adorable!!
‘Co**s don’t like to be dry. It makes them sad.’
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
This book has the ᔕᗯᗴᗴTᗴᔕT Daddy/boy elements EVER. The absolute ᗷᗴᔕT laying scene. And the hurt/comfort and forgiveness is soul wrenching.
I’ve never before highlighted or added notes in a book. Until this one.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
And yes, Amy Bellows; I ᑕᖇIᗴᗪ.
January 5, 2024
Sweet, as always
these books are always sweet and lovung, and I think this one is even more so. I really don't like the polar bear guild. I do really love Otis and Kade.
these books are always sweet and lovung, and I think this one is even more so. I really don't like the polar bear guild. I do really love Otis and Kade.
September 7, 2020
⭐️ 4.5 stars ⭐️
January 17, 2021
This was one of the better books in the series.
I started this series because I really enjoyed a good MPreg series and this one is about penguin shifters and I love a good fluff story.
This book gets more deeper and really explores the harshness of the shifter community, so the fluff of the story line seems to be over but that is okay because the overall plot of the story is really good.
Otis was a great character and I fell in love with him right away and Kade was perfect for him.
Another great addition to the story.
I started this series because I really enjoyed a good MPreg series and this one is about penguin shifters and I love a good fluff story.
This book gets more deeper and really explores the harshness of the shifter community, so the fluff of the story line seems to be over but that is okay because the overall plot of the story is really good.
Otis was a great character and I fell in love with him right away and Kade was perfect for him.
Another great addition to the story.
November 26, 2024
We got a book on the northern slope with the incarcerated rager polar bears and the fairy penguins and I wasn't expecting it but I love love love it
October 25, 2020
This one might be my favorite of the series. It was soooo sweet and a little kinky. Kade is just magical with his fairy ways and blue hair. I enjoyed this story so much. Fun, romantic, steamy and makes you want to embrace your true self.
December 6, 2024
A new contender for favourite couple in this series! This book was everything~
What starts out as a platonic companion job between the lowest species of penguin shifter in the social hierarchy and a rager polar bear shifter turns into a badass Daddy/boy power couple ready to take down oppressive systems 💪🏻
Kade’s heat is sudden and intense and when he ends up pregnant things get really complicated. Otis is imprisoned for life and the slope is no place for a child. I loved how abortion was a serious consideration for many reasons and that Kade was given respect and space to make the decision that was right for him. Otis gave him support and resources regardless of what he chose and I don’t think I’ve ever read a romance where abortion was really spoken about.
Otis’s reconciliation with his brother and ex-mate was powerful too. And the ongoing fight against selling “ragers” aka convicts as slave labour is a plot point that hopefully will continue to develop in the rest of the series.
You really get so much more in these books that just shifters and eggpreg. They might seem silly on the surface and there’s definitely lighthearted moments but there’s little nuggets of powerful commentary on society, government, love, gender, etc tucked into each book.
Also the smut was 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
What starts out as a platonic companion job between the lowest species of penguin shifter in the social hierarchy and a rager polar bear shifter turns into a badass Daddy/boy power couple ready to take down oppressive systems 💪🏻
Kade’s heat is sudden and intense and when he ends up pregnant things get really complicated. Otis is imprisoned for life and the slope is no place for a child. I loved how abortion was a serious consideration for many reasons and that Kade was given respect and space to make the decision that was right for him. Otis gave him support and resources regardless of what he chose and I don’t think I’ve ever read a romance where abortion was really spoken about.
Otis’s reconciliation with his brother and ex-mate was powerful too. And the ongoing fight against selling “ragers” aka convicts as slave labour is a plot point that hopefully will continue to develop in the rest of the series.
You really get so much more in these books that just shifters and eggpreg. They might seem silly on the surface and there’s definitely lighthearted moments but there’s little nuggets of powerful commentary on society, government, love, gender, etc tucked into each book.
Also the smut was 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
September 8, 2020
DNF @ 32%
Yeah, I'm pulling a plug on this. The summary sounded lighthearted and funny, other reviews were pretty high and I assumed I would enjoy this opposites attracted close quarters romance but I was wrong. I was not okay with this story and I did not like this.
This was my first foray into this universe and it was not what I had somewhat naively expected. I have seen Alaskan Pebble Gifters books pop around now and then, but the thought of shifter penguins gifting pebbles sounded hilarious and not like something I would be interested in. The summary of A Handkerchief for Kade made me change my mind about it and give this series a try.
What I didn't expect was to enter a world so oppressive that it made bile rise up in my throat. A world where there might not be homophobia but instead it was replaced with different kind of discrimination based on alpha and omega dynamics. A world where shifters were discriminated according to their animal kingdoms, where one species of penguin shifters looked down on another species of penguin shifters.
And if that wasn't enough oppression in this oppression sandwich, we also have indentured laborers in the form of "ragers" on the North Slope. Polar bear shifters who instead of serving prison time for their one time loss of control (I don't know does this always end up in casualties or not) are sentenced to an eternity of forced labor on Alaskan oil rigs. Also how the f*** does a polar bear operate an oil rig?!? Working with them are also "free" penguin shifters who are treated so badly by the companies employing them that they are not even provided with drinkable water in camp and their children are running around camp begging for food for which people with hearts not made out of stone are fined by the company when they sneak them some food.
So naturally I started asking my self what the f*** did I get myself into and how badly do I want to keep on torturing myself reading a weak romance story set in this kind of an universe. It is not that I am unaware there are horrible things happening in the world or that I am opposed to it reflecting in fiction, but I don't want to sign up to it when I am reading mm romance about polar bear and penguin shifters. Yeah, that one is on me.
Regarding the characters and the romance itself, I can't say I liked either Kade or Otis too much.
Kade was too immature and his actions were too ridiculous, who destroys a make up pallete, received as a gift, as some misguided offering to the Sea (god)? Even if I assume his clinginess and immaturity could be explained by his life circumstances and age I still found it annoying.
On the other hand, Otis was a 40 year old man acting like an insecure 14 year old teenager around Kade. This is an actual quote: "He called me handsome. My stomach fills with a mixture of nervousness and excitement. Does he really find me attractive, or is he just saying that?" This was also a man, who despite being an indentured laborer for the past 10 years, would let Rourke, the main antagonist, a man who has been there only for one year, get a rise out of him every time. Was Otis somehow impossible of gaining any wisdom from any of his experiences? This also seemed to include his ex, Silas, who just might have been the worst piece of sh*t in the book. And the competition was not light here.
While the romance set up originally sounded like fun there wasn't that much effort put into making their mutual attraction believable. From the initial meeting their attraction is instant, there are misunderstandings but no effort put into getting to know each other, there is a kiss and immediately after there is Kade's heat and they have sex. Everything happens so fast, without any believable connection between the characters, but I guess the other 70% of this story is reserved for more oppression that is in store for every remotely decent character in the story (I skimmed a bit before deciding I was over that sh*t before it even started).
This is probably a textbook case of it is not the book it is the book but I can't make myself rate it as more that 2 stars and even for that I have to disregard the text tied to the rating.
Yeah, I'm pulling a plug on this. The summary sounded lighthearted and funny, other reviews were pretty high and I assumed I would enjoy this opposites attracted close quarters romance but I was wrong. I was not okay with this story and I did not like this.
This was my first foray into this universe and it was not what I had somewhat naively expected. I have seen Alaskan Pebble Gifters books pop around now and then, but the thought of shifter penguins gifting pebbles sounded hilarious and not like something I would be interested in. The summary of A Handkerchief for Kade made me change my mind about it and give this series a try.
What I didn't expect was to enter a world so oppressive that it made bile rise up in my throat. A world where there might not be homophobia but instead it was replaced with different kind of discrimination based on alpha and omega dynamics. A world where shifters were discriminated according to their animal kingdoms, where one species of penguin shifters looked down on another species of penguin shifters.
And if that wasn't enough oppression in this oppression sandwich, we also have indentured laborers in the form of "ragers" on the North Slope. Polar bear shifters who instead of serving prison time for their one time loss of control (I don't know does this always end up in casualties or not) are sentenced to an eternity of forced labor on Alaskan oil rigs. Also how the f*** does a polar bear operate an oil rig?!? Working with them are also "free" penguin shifters who are treated so badly by the companies employing them that they are not even provided with drinkable water in camp and their children are running around camp begging for food for which people with hearts not made out of stone are fined by the company when they sneak them some food.
So naturally I started asking my self what the f*** did I get myself into and how badly do I want to keep on torturing myself reading a weak romance story set in this kind of an universe. It is not that I am unaware there are horrible things happening in the world or that I am opposed to it reflecting in fiction, but I don't want to sign up to it when I am reading mm romance about polar bear and penguin shifters. Yeah, that one is on me.
Regarding the characters and the romance itself, I can't say I liked either Kade or Otis too much.
Kade was too immature and his actions were too ridiculous, who destroys a make up pallete, received as a gift, as some misguided offering to the Sea (god)? Even if I assume his clinginess and immaturity could be explained by his life circumstances and age I still found it annoying.
On the other hand, Otis was a 40 year old man acting like an insecure 14 year old teenager around Kade. This is an actual quote: "He called me handsome. My stomach fills with a mixture of nervousness and excitement. Does he really find me attractive, or is he just saying that?" This was also a man, who despite being an indentured laborer for the past 10 years, would let Rourke, the main antagonist, a man who has been there only for one year, get a rise out of him every time. Was Otis somehow impossible of gaining any wisdom from any of his experiences? This also seemed to include his ex, Silas, who just might have been the worst piece of sh*t in the book. And the competition was not light here.
While the romance set up originally sounded like fun there wasn't that much effort put into making their mutual attraction believable. From the initial meeting their attraction is instant, there are misunderstandings but no effort put into getting to know each other, there is a kiss and immediately after there is Kade's heat and they have sex. Everything happens so fast, without any believable connection between the characters, but I guess the other 70% of this story is reserved for more oppression that is in store for every remotely decent character in the story (I skimmed a bit before deciding I was over that sh*t before it even started).
This is probably a textbook case of it is not the book it is the book but I can't make myself rate it as more that 2 stars and even for that I have to disregard the text tied to the rating.
September 6, 2020
I know I say this after every Alaskan Pebble Gifters book but THIS BOOK is my favorite book in the series. Hands down. Amy really outdid herself with this one. From Otis and Kade's relationship to the adorable daddy/ boy moments, and all the kinky smut you could ever possibly want, this book has it all.
I can't reveal too much because as the series has gone on it's become increasingly difficult to read these books separate from one another. Character reappearances are more frequent and important, plot lines are crossing, and there's an overarching world that becomes more and more complex with each book. Additionally, if you haven't read the other books, you're not going to get much explanation for what's going on. I personally like this because it rewards readers who've been here and it doesn't muddy at the text with unnecessary exposition. But, that being said I can't say a whole lot because spoilers out the Wazoo.
What I can say is that this book is very endearing, it's very sweet even though the Slope is a very depressing and abysmal place. I love the idea that love can happen in a hopeless place, I love that this book does not shy away from the reality that is the Slope (i.e. a for-profit prison with a chain gang). The characters are multi-dimensional, the message is important, and we've upped the daddy/ boy content here. So if you left the second and third book want more, it's definitely here.
If you're already enamored with the series there's no reason you won't love this book as well. And if for whatever reason you still haven't picked the books up but have somehow stumbled upon this one, now is the time to do it. This world is only getting more and more complex and I am so here for the ride. 10 stars because Otis is the perfect daddy and Kade's nest, and everything about it, is my favorite thing ever and probably forever will be.
I can't reveal too much because as the series has gone on it's become increasingly difficult to read these books separate from one another. Character reappearances are more frequent and important, plot lines are crossing, and there's an overarching world that becomes more and more complex with each book. Additionally, if you haven't read the other books, you're not going to get much explanation for what's going on. I personally like this because it rewards readers who've been here and it doesn't muddy at the text with unnecessary exposition. But, that being said I can't say a whole lot because spoilers out the Wazoo.
What I can say is that this book is very endearing, it's very sweet even though the Slope is a very depressing and abysmal place. I love the idea that love can happen in a hopeless place, I love that this book does not shy away from the reality that is the Slope (i.e. a for-profit prison with a chain gang). The characters are multi-dimensional, the message is important, and we've upped the daddy/ boy content here. So if you left the second and third book want more, it's definitely here.
If you're already enamored with the series there's no reason you won't love this book as well. And if for whatever reason you still haven't picked the books up but have somehow stumbled upon this one, now is the time to do it. This world is only getting more and more complex and I am so here for the ride. 10 stars because Otis is the perfect daddy and Kade's nest, and everything about it, is my favorite thing ever and probably forever will be.
September 6, 2020
A Handerchief for Kade is a fabulous shifter romance by Amy Bellows. The fifth book in the Alaskan Pebble Gifters series, it is easily read as a standalone.
I absolutely love this shifter world surrounding the Pebble Gifters series. The author adds a tremendous amount of emotion and details into the world that all add immensely to the beauty of this tale/series.
Like the previous books, Kade's story is tender, sweet, and absolutely mesmerizing. I love it all.
Otis and Kade. Two shifters. Both lonely and broken. Two shifters who have no reason or purpose anymore. Until they meet one another. Kade and Otis are perfect for one another. They each give the other a reason to live, fully completing each other. It is an awesome story.
There is a lot going on that adds to the emotion. There's past pains and regrets to deal with. There's a kink and sexual preferences to explore. There's some breath play, bondage, voyeurism, and exhibitionism.
But, damn it, once again my favorite scenes are the nesting ones. I cannot get enough of the author's nesting scenes. They are amazing, written with both heart and humor. These scenes alone are worth the read.
This tale starts on the Slope, and includes all the details of life on the Slope. There's also some Anchorage scenes, with some previous characters.
Handerchief for Kade is a fantastic blend of shifters, cultures, traditions, daddy kink, and romance. I can't recommend this book and series enough! And trust me, you just can't go wrong with an Amy Bellows book.
I absolutely love this shifter world surrounding the Pebble Gifters series. The author adds a tremendous amount of emotion and details into the world that all add immensely to the beauty of this tale/series.
Like the previous books, Kade's story is tender, sweet, and absolutely mesmerizing. I love it all.
Otis and Kade. Two shifters. Both lonely and broken. Two shifters who have no reason or purpose anymore. Until they meet one another. Kade and Otis are perfect for one another. They each give the other a reason to live, fully completing each other. It is an awesome story.
There is a lot going on that adds to the emotion. There's past pains and regrets to deal with. There's a kink and sexual preferences to explore. There's some breath play, bondage, voyeurism, and exhibitionism.
But, damn it, once again my favorite scenes are the nesting ones. I cannot get enough of the author's nesting scenes. They are amazing, written with both heart and humor. These scenes alone are worth the read.
This tale starts on the Slope, and includes all the details of life on the Slope. There's also some Anchorage scenes, with some previous characters.
Handerchief for Kade is a fantastic blend of shifters, cultures, traditions, daddy kink, and romance. I can't recommend this book and series enough! And trust me, you just can't go wrong with an Amy Bellows book.
February 9, 2025
4.5/5. This was precious. Kade is delightful. He really is sunshine. He's had hard thing happen in his life, but he continues to look for the good. He's sparkly and completely himself. Otis is wonderful. He's such a caretaker. He has every right to be full of rage, and he is, but he still allows himself to open up when Kade enters the picture.
I love this desolate, dreary backdrop of the Slopes. It adds suspense and makes everything feel more real. I also feel so much for these ragers sent to live there, especially the penguins. I like the community they (well some of them) create to support each other. They're welcoming to Kade, who is different than most companions. I really enjoyed seeing Kade try to help Otis realize he is still a person and he deserves good things. Their undeniable attraction to each other was great, too.
I enjoyed seeing the family issues and resolutions from both sides and I liked the politics of the Slopes, etc. All of that kept it fun, unique, and entertaining. I actually couldn't put this book down. It was so swoon-worthy and sweet that I kept needing more. Overall, I loved this story and these characters and this large found family.
Notes: 2/5 spice levels, omegaverse, nesting, heat, polar bear/penguin shifters, family issues, mpreg, makeup artist, daddy/boy, age gap
I love this desolate, dreary backdrop of the Slopes. It adds suspense and makes everything feel more real. I also feel so much for these ragers sent to live there, especially the penguins. I like the community they (well some of them) create to support each other. They're welcoming to Kade, who is different than most companions. I really enjoyed seeing Kade try to help Otis realize he is still a person and he deserves good things. Their undeniable attraction to each other was great, too.
I enjoyed seeing the family issues and resolutions from both sides and I liked the politics of the Slopes, etc. All of that kept it fun, unique, and entertaining. I actually couldn't put this book down. It was so swoon-worthy and sweet that I kept needing more. Overall, I loved this story and these characters and this large found family.
Notes: 2/5 spice levels, omegaverse, nesting, heat, polar bear/penguin shifters, family issues, mpreg, makeup artist, daddy/boy, age gap
September 5, 2020
looooooooooooooooooooooooooove
October 12, 2025
*sigh* I just love this series
September 6, 2020
I loved this book! Otis and Kade were adorable and the fantasies were awesome and so unique!
December 10, 2024
This unexpectedly turned out to be maybe my favourite in the whole series. I went into it thinking I’d read it so I could get to the next and then it sucked me in. I loved everything about this book and the plot outside their relationship was done really well. I loved Otis and Kade together 😭😭😭
September 29, 2020
Amy Bellows has a knack for creating unique and endearing characters that I just love.
And though I had a few concerns about this book that I'll delve into in detail below, it was an enjoyable read and I'm still completely invested in this series and all of the characters and side characters. If the next book was available yet, I'd already be devouring it!
One of the concerns I had was that I found the plot of this one a bit fast. I would have liked some more connection between the two before Kade's heat. I wanted more cuddling and sweet domestic moments of them getting to know each other. Instead of telling me they were going to have emotional sex I wanted to actually see more of their actual connection.
The story with Otis' exmate and his burns made me uncomfortable. At first we were supposed to hate him and the brother, but then when it all came out, it was mostly a misunderstanding. I just found that to be unbearably sad.I felt like the brother and exmate spent their whole life having to pay for something where the punishment was worse than the crime. Considering the whole book was about alphas being sentenced to a life sentence that didn't fit their crime, it was just really uncomfortable to see the same thing happening in a different way, and yet we were supposed to be okay with it? 🤔
The role play elements seemed a bit over the top and shoehorned into scenes where they didn't quite fit, but that might just be a case of it not being my type of kink. 🤷🏻♀️
I'm slightly side eyeing the recent trend in this book series to refer to true mates. I love a good soul mate story. And true mates is actually one of my all time favorite tropes, but it's a bit weird that this element was just added in the later books when it wasn't stated in the first couple of the series. Maybe if the author actually explains this more and manages to tie it all into the plot or world building I'll be able to understand the reason for bringing in this trope where it doesn't seem to add much.
And on that note ~ once again, only a few of the overarching questions in this series' world building have been answered, so I just hope the author has enough books planned to wrap it all up nicely.
Despite the flaws, I was happy to see Kade get a happily ever after and to see Otis (and more alphas) be able to return from the slope. And the nesting is always my favorite part! These characters deserve a happily ever after.
Additionally I quite enjoyed the sneak peek of the next book! I can't wait to read more about Maxim and Eli. I'm looking forward to seeing more of this world in the future.
And though I had a few concerns about this book that I'll delve into in detail below, it was an enjoyable read and I'm still completely invested in this series and all of the characters and side characters. If the next book was available yet, I'd already be devouring it!
One of the concerns I had was that I found the plot of this one a bit fast. I would have liked some more connection between the two before Kade's heat. I wanted more cuddling and sweet domestic moments of them getting to know each other. Instead of telling me they were going to have emotional sex I wanted to actually see more of their actual connection.
The story with Otis' exmate and his burns made me uncomfortable. At first we were supposed to hate him and the brother, but then when it all came out, it was mostly a misunderstanding. I just found that to be unbearably sad.I felt like the brother and exmate spent their whole life having to pay for something where the punishment was worse than the crime. Considering the whole book was about alphas being sentenced to a life sentence that didn't fit their crime, it was just really uncomfortable to see the same thing happening in a different way, and yet we were supposed to be okay with it? 🤔
The role play elements seemed a bit over the top and shoehorned into scenes where they didn't quite fit, but that might just be a case of it not being my type of kink. 🤷🏻♀️
I'm slightly side eyeing the recent trend in this book series to refer to true mates. I love a good soul mate story. And true mates is actually one of my all time favorite tropes, but it's a bit weird that this element was just added in the later books when it wasn't stated in the first couple of the series. Maybe if the author actually explains this more and manages to tie it all into the plot or world building I'll be able to understand the reason for bringing in this trope where it doesn't seem to add much.
And on that note ~ once again, only a few of the overarching questions in this series' world building have been answered, so I just hope the author has enough books planned to wrap it all up nicely.
Despite the flaws, I was happy to see Kade get a happily ever after and to see Otis (and more alphas) be able to return from the slope. And the nesting is always my favorite part! These characters deserve a happily ever after.
Additionally I quite enjoyed the sneak peek of the next book! I can't wait to read more about Maxim and Eli. I'm looking forward to seeing more of this world in the future.
February 15, 2021
The blurb is highly misleading, which pissed me off to no end.
This is not a fluffy, lighthearted shifter romance with insta love that you are led to believe, the kind you read for shits and giggles. I mean, it’s a penguin and a polar bear book for god sake.
Instead, the writer fancied herself being a Dostoevsky.
The book starts off ok with a young guy looking for a fresh start. But quickly dives into some very dark themes such as parental abuse, species discrimination, slut-shaming, wrongful criminal conviction, exploitation by some some totalitarian capitalist system, seeking forgiveness, redemption and justice, and suicide, all of which as you can imagine are rather depressing topics to read.
And in the middle of this there was this very lukewarm romance.
This book basically ruined my mood for the afternoon.
This is not a fluffy, lighthearted shifter romance with insta love that you are led to believe, the kind you read for shits and giggles. I mean, it’s a penguin and a polar bear book for god sake.
Instead, the writer fancied herself being a Dostoevsky.
The book starts off ok with a young guy looking for a fresh start. But quickly dives into some very dark themes such as parental abuse, species discrimination, slut-shaming, wrongful criminal conviction, exploitation by some some totalitarian capitalist system, seeking forgiveness, redemption and justice, and suicide, all of which as you can imagine are rather depressing topics to read.
And in the middle of this there was this very lukewarm romance.
This book basically ruined my mood for the afternoon.
September 11, 2020
Another glorious addition to the Pebble Gifter universe!! We get all the good feels and kink Amy Bellows so expertly weaves plus a continuation of her shifter lore. I loved Otis and Kade to death. They were both so desperately starved for love and I just wanted them to be happy!! Oh! The feels! My only criticism would be that Kade and Otis spend so little time together before the plot darts off. I dislike insta love so even a time skip would've been nice. I can't wait for the next book!! Going to be so good!!! 💙💙👜
October 1, 2020
While the "nesting" scenes are out of this world hilarious, I am finding the "egg" birthing scenes a bit repetitive... maybe it's just me... grrr
I see MORE Amy Bellows books in my future... a LOT more! *grin*
I see MORE Amy Bellows books in my future... a LOT more! *grin*
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