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Precarious Shifters #1
Nefarious Betrayal
What I thought was supposed to be one of the happiest times of my life, turned out to be my worst nightmare. I was following the steps expected of me—find my mate, become a Queen, and lead shifter kind. Someone along the way interfered with my destiny.
My world turned upside down when the person who meant everything to me, turned out to be the worst kind of traitor. He played me like a puppet master before ripping out my heart and delivering his rejection.
For 500 years, I’ve been subjected to blatant torture, landing me in the hands of some nefarious scientists. They won't stop until they’ve discovered all my secrets. With my magic depleted, I wait for the Fates' interference, until four men stumble across my path. To my surprise, my fated mate is amongst them. Is he my savior or my downfall? And why am I drawn to his three companions just as much?
My world turned upside down when the person who meant everything to me, turned out to be the worst kind of traitor. He played me like a puppet master before ripping out my heart and delivering his rejection.
For 500 years, I’ve been subjected to blatant torture, landing me in the hands of some nefarious scientists. They won't stop until they’ve discovered all my secrets. With my magic depleted, I wait for the Fates' interference, until four men stumble across my path. To my surprise, my fated mate is amongst them. Is he my savior or my downfall? And why am I drawn to his three companions just as much?
412 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 4, 2021
561 people are currently reading
2427 people want to read
About the author
Leah Steele
14 books289 followersLeah Steele grew up with sunshine and beaches, but now lives in the Midwest. She’s an awkward introvert who’s better left alone until she’s had her morning cup of coffee. If you can’t find her behind her laptop or a kindle, there’s a good chance she’s on a hiking trail taking scenic photos, or traveling around America.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
August 7, 2021
A Magical Reverse-Harem Shifters/Paranormal romance with Tragedy, Suspense, Action, Mysteries, Wolves, Drama, Past vs Present, & A cliffhanger which makes me eager for what's next!
This series starter (I.e. Book 1) was unlike any other I've read. I liked the characters (Hated the bad guy) & Savored it. The world building is awesome, We didn't get any sex scenes but are promised that we will soon! This is Leah's debut book & I'm excited to follow her author journey!
This story gives us the idea of What was (I'm excited to get the full picture!) & what is. From our FMC's POV chapters we see the past, how she suffered betrayal 500yrs ago & ended up trapped. From our 4 guys' POVs we see the present, how they found & saved her, & at the ending she finally wakes up from her coma-like state. The Past & Present Chapters are around 50% each & alternate which I'm glad about–It helps to know & handle the past hurt.
Cecily; Powerful, Smart, Caring; was the heir of being the "Alpha Queen" of all shifters, a royalty. She'd good parents, a happy kingdom...Until she found about her Fated mate at just 25 (It's early for'em). She was apprehensive on many levels (especially by his Sleazy uncle Silas) but she packed her bags & with her guards went to his kingdom, as per tradition.
Marcellus was 28 & the heir of the northern pack & is cautious, sweet, (slowly) confident BUT controlled by his uncle. From the start, Something's amiss, Silas was hiding so much! As C+M grew closer, trust built, Secrets revealed: Silas was planning something big...& Bad. But before C+M could've ran away, it all went to hell. Betrayal, Hurt, Magic, Centuries of her soul floating, Body being experimented on by Humans...Burning for revenge.
Until our 4 guys– Alex, Derrick, Klaus, Marcus– found her on their trip...Or more like Alex did, from the bunker in that wild life sanctuary. And, That's how the book starts!
The 4 have different quirks+Powers, are heirs to their "Noble" family's Wolf packs & besties for decades. Alex is the Game & Movie nerd. Derrick is the researcher & Prankster. Klaus is Laidback & a reader. At last, Marcus is the Leader & Planner–Unfeeling. I love all of their interactions!
They all feel this connection to her, Marcus the most–His feelings back again, She's his fated mate! (Maybe she's all of their fated mates?) They don't know her, but will do everything for her. M even curbs his jealousy towards his friends.
––Marcus, Btw, I'm sure is "Marcellus" in past (Even has Silas the uncle!), But doesn't remember anything. It's pointed out later on, that none of them remember the past very much...Was it magic? Wtf happened?!
From the moment the 4 save her, it's one Action Packed ordeal after another, Magical suspense thrown in for fun! ~Sci-fi Bunker, Safe Cave, Wolf talk, Dreams, Mercenaries, Power flow, Talking Butterfly, Tracker, Care, Regroup...I was so glad when they finally got to the safety of Marcus' cabin & could relax!
All throughout, we find info about the aftermath of "Royal family disappearance", But none know that their girl is so much more!
The book ends with with her finally waking up (Due to her bond with the 4?)! But how she reacted to Marcus (My heart broke for him) & the epilogue proved that Marcus isn't a stranger to her...We just gotta find how this all fucked up. I'm so excited for what's next, to see their relationship grow & get answers (& maybe her revenge, soon?)!
**ARC Gotten for a Honest Review.**
FB Page | Instagram | Bookbub | FB group
This series starter (I.e. Book 1) was unlike any other I've read. I liked the characters (Hated the bad guy) & Savored it. The world building is awesome, We didn't get any sex scenes but are promised that we will soon! This is Leah's debut book & I'm excited to follow her author journey!
This story gives us the idea of What was (I'm excited to get the full picture!) & what is. From our FMC's POV chapters we see the past, how she suffered betrayal 500yrs ago & ended up trapped. From our 4 guys' POVs we see the present, how they found & saved her, & at the ending she finally wakes up from her coma-like state. The Past & Present Chapters are around 50% each & alternate which I'm glad about–It helps to know & handle the past hurt.
Cecily; Powerful, Smart, Caring; was the heir of being the "Alpha Queen" of all shifters, a royalty. She'd good parents, a happy kingdom...Until she found about her Fated mate at just 25 (It's early for'em). She was apprehensive on many levels (especially by his Sleazy uncle Silas) but she packed her bags & with her guards went to his kingdom, as per tradition.
Marcellus was 28 & the heir of the northern pack & is cautious, sweet, (slowly) confident BUT controlled by his uncle. From the start, Something's amiss, Silas was hiding so much! As C+M grew closer, trust built, Secrets revealed: Silas was planning something big...& Bad. But before C+M could've ran away, it all went to hell. Betrayal, Hurt, Magic, Centuries of her soul floating, Body being experimented on by Humans...Burning for revenge.
Until our 4 guys– Alex, Derrick, Klaus, Marcus– found her on their trip...Or more like Alex did, from the bunker in that wild life sanctuary. And, That's how the book starts!
The 4 have different quirks+Powers, are heirs to their "Noble" family's Wolf packs & besties for decades. Alex is the Game & Movie nerd. Derrick is the researcher & Prankster. Klaus is Laidback & a reader. At last, Marcus is the Leader & Planner–Unfeeling. I love all of their interactions!
They all feel this connection to her, Marcus the most–His feelings back again, She's his fated mate! (Maybe she's all of their fated mates?) They don't know her, but will do everything for her. M even curbs his jealousy towards his friends.
––Marcus, Btw, I'm sure is "Marcellus" in past (Even has Silas the uncle!), But doesn't remember anything. It's pointed out later on, that none of them remember the past very much...Was it magic? Wtf happened?!
From the moment the 4 save her, it's one Action Packed ordeal after another, Magical suspense thrown in for fun! ~Sci-fi Bunker, Safe Cave, Wolf talk, Dreams, Mercenaries, Power flow, Talking Butterfly, Tracker, Care, Regroup...I was so glad when they finally got to the safety of Marcus' cabin & could relax!
All throughout, we find info about the aftermath of "Royal family disappearance", But none know that their girl is so much more!
The book ends with with her finally waking up (Due to her bond with the 4?)! But how she reacted to Marcus (My heart broke for him) & the epilogue proved that Marcus isn't a stranger to her...We just gotta find how this all fucked up. I'm so excited for what's next, to see their relationship grow & get answers (& maybe her revenge, soon?)!
**ARC Gotten for a Honest Review.**
FB Page | Instagram | Bookbub | FB group
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2021
This book started out so good but it was so freaking slow. The most annoying part was the time jumps. I could handle the flashbacks but the jumping around hours in the present day wasn’t fun.
This book was primarily through the perspective of the four MMCs excluding the flashbacks and the opening prologue in Cecily’s POV, and there were some issues or me. I don’t think it needed to keep cycling through everyone’s perspective of events, events which took way too long to progress. And as much as I appreciated the flashbacks they really provided more information than was needed. Especially when I guessed most of what was going to happen after the first couple. Of which all my predictions were correct. Even how she would wake up I guessed early on. The only surprise was not understanding what events could lead to Marcus’ circumstances in the epilogue.
I do like the modern day fairytale setup of this story. It’s very evil nobility casts a curse over the kingdom and sleeping beauty etc etc.
I was, however, confused about historical elements which were never made clear. The flashback take place in the early 1500s and it becomes obvious it’s set in North America when Native Americans (called Indians in the book) are mentioned. After realizing this, it makes no sense that this civilization of shifters would live in the castles described unless magic was involved that was never discussed. This on top of the fact that they have their own civilization established in the Americas at the very very very beginning of its discovery (think age of Queen Elizabeth I) which seems unbelievable. So more expansion of why that’s possible is needed otherwise it seems like they’re in Europe until Native Americans are mentioned. If this was set in a different universe and was a high fantasy I could role with it but it’s using geography and cultural references that make that not possible.
Anyway, I’m willingly to see if the sequel progresses at a better pace but I’m not holding my breath.
2.75 stars, 68%, C+
This book was primarily through the perspective of the four MMCs excluding the flashbacks and the opening prologue in Cecily’s POV, and there were some issues or me. I don’t think it needed to keep cycling through everyone’s perspective of events, events which took way too long to progress. And as much as I appreciated the flashbacks they really provided more information than was needed. Especially when I guessed most of what was going to happen after the first couple. Of which all my predictions were correct. Even how she would wake up I guessed early on. The only surprise was not understanding what events could lead to Marcus’ circumstances in the epilogue.
I do like the modern day fairytale setup of this story. It’s very evil nobility casts a curse over the kingdom and sleeping beauty etc etc.
I was, however, confused about historical elements which were never made clear. The flashback take place in the early 1500s and it becomes obvious it’s set in North America when Native Americans (called Indians in the book) are mentioned. After realizing this, it makes no sense that this civilization of shifters would live in the castles described unless magic was involved that was never discussed. This on top of the fact that they have their own civilization established in the Americas at the very very very beginning of its discovery (think age of Queen Elizabeth I) which seems unbelievable. So more expansion of why that’s possible is needed otherwise it seems like they’re in Europe until Native Americans are mentioned. If this was set in a different universe and was a high fantasy I could role with it but it’s using geography and cultural references that make that not possible.
Anyway, I’m willingly to see if the sequel progresses at a better pace but I’m not holding my breath.
2.75 stars, 68%, C+
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January 4, 2022I'm not rating the book, because it could not keep my attention. I kept finding excuses to not read and that's a sure sign that the book is not for me. I hated that many things are described in unnecessary little detail. I also think that this book is a lot about whatever happened 500 years ago. But it would have been so much better, if the history would have been told in a separate book and the second book should start with the story. But until now I feel, that we do need the history lesson but it leads nowhere.
It's a dnf. I won't wast any more time on this book.
It's a dnf. I won't wast any more time on this book.
July 25, 2021
That ending 😬🤫 I would like the next book now please?? This book was so different because the female lead character; Cecily, is told from her past POV as she is stuck in a coma - like state for the past 500 hundred years, literally throughout the whole book!! Which was so weird but quite brilliantly thought out!! Meanwhile, we get different POV from all of the lead guys; Marcus, Alex, Klaus and Derrick which I actually loved as we got to know them and their quirks/different characters. They are all very confused as to why they have a pull to the same girl...I would love some answers to be honest as I have so many and alot of confusion 😂 I'm looking forward to some 🔥 in the next book as there wasn't any in this one, due to Cecily being unconscious 😅 although, there were some heated dreams that were a teaser as to whats to come! 😉 this is a great start to a new series and a really unique story line that I think will keep us readers coming back simply to see where the author takes us next!! Can we just take a minute to appreciate how gorgeous this cover is 😍😍
August 5, 2021
What a mind-blowing debut. I’m speechless. This book is very well thought out and so unique. I mean come on; the FMC has been in a coma for 500 years and her POV takes place 500 years in the past whereas the other POVs are in the present. There are so many twists and turns that keep you engaged. This book is an emotional rollercoaster, and it was so addictive. I could not put it down. So original and creative, honestly Leah Steele has amazed me with this book and I can’t wait to see where the next one goes after the way this one ended on a cliffhanger!
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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August 4, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon today (8/4/2023)! 🎁
August 7, 2021
Great read
Everyone loves shifters. This book is the first ive read of this author. It is slow in some ways action packed in others. I enjoyed this book n am looking forward to book 2
Everyone loves shifters. This book is the first ive read of this author. It is slow in some ways action packed in others. I enjoyed this book n am looking forward to book 2
July 29, 2021
What a brilliant debut novel. I really enjoyed this one and getting to know our MMCs. Is it too early to pick a favourite? #teamKlaus … and #teamDerrick too👀. Not much steam in this book however, Leah has said there’s plenty to come in the next books🔥. Can we talk about that ending?! What the heck! Marcus you have some serious explaining to do! I cannot wait for book 2 and I’m really pleased to know we haven’t got long to wait😆.
August 3, 2021
Steely debut... Worth every second
Reverse Harem - ✓
4 D*cks - ✓
Overloaded Testosterone - ✓
An action packed full length novel that will bring you to your knees. I have enjoyed the way Steele has connected various timelines, giving us a mysterious and eerie vibe throughout. This is one of those books where I didn't expect what would happen in cliffhanger! YESS! It does end in cliffhanger. No, you won't have to wait much longer for this beauty. The author has kindly decided to grace us with alllll the books soon.
Reverse Harem - ✓
4 D*cks - ✓
Overloaded Testosterone - ✓
An action packed full length novel that will bring you to your knees. I have enjoyed the way Steele has connected various timelines, giving us a mysterious and eerie vibe throughout. This is one of those books where I didn't expect what would happen in cliffhanger! YESS! It does end in cliffhanger. No, you won't have to wait much longer for this beauty. The author has kindly decided to grace us with alllll the books soon.
May 11, 2022
When I first started this book, I felt like I was reading two books in one - two different timelines. However, as the momentum of the book set in the two different timelines kind of worked. Through this momentum, I found myself beginning to enjoy the read!!
Love the cliff hanger, it has defiantly peaked my interest to try the next book.
Loved the different personalities in this book, each one of them balanced each other out. Would have loved to see more of Cecily present pov near the end though.
A strong ⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 read.
Love the cliff hanger, it has defiantly peaked my interest to try the next book.
Loved the different personalities in this book, each one of them balanced each other out. Would have loved to see more of Cecily present pov near the end though.
A strong ⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 read.
January 5, 2022
2.5 stars
There are some things I liked about this novel and things I really didn't. One of my biggest problems was it felt like anything the author couldn't or didn't want to explain, surprise! Magic! I couldn't get a handle on the location, and it kind of pulled me out of the story also since it seemed to be early European, but with Native Americans? All in all, I will probably finish the next book to see where it goes, but I won't be in any hurry to do so.
There are some things I liked about this novel and things I really didn't. One of my biggest problems was it felt like anything the author couldn't or didn't want to explain, surprise! Magic! I couldn't get a handle on the location, and it kind of pulled me out of the story also since it seemed to be early European, but with Native Americans? All in all, I will probably finish the next book to see where it goes, but I won't be in any hurry to do so.
July 30, 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Story
🔥🔥🔥Steamy
👑Oh Leah Steele this story! Fantastic weaving of past and present.
👑I usually get so lost and confused with alternating timeline stories, but Leah Steele managed to weave this story in such a way that it was engaging and entertaining.
👑So one POV takes place 500 years in the past, and the other is in present day. We have 4 alpha males, the leaders of the Shifter council who meet every year. They are the best of friend, and take a brief vacation before the yearly Summit of shifters.
👑Cecily the princess from the past. Betrayed and in a present day 500 year stasis. We get the background of how poor Cecily was betrayed. And we get the mens struggle to protect her in the present.
👑This story ends with a cliffhanger that breaks my heart. I can't wait to see where Leah Steele will take the story from here. I really have so many more thoughts and I just wanted to make sure I didn't spoil the story in anyway. I received an ARC for a honest review. Once you read this I'm open for more talking over this story because man I can't wait to read book 2!
#bookstagram #bookblogger #2021reads #review #arcreview #arcreader #NefariousBetrayal #PrecariousShifters #leahsteele #leahsteeleauthor #steelemyheart #reverseharem
#rejectedmates #paranormalromance #whychoose #romanceauthor #blogtour #affinityauthorservices
🔥🔥🔥Steamy
👑Oh Leah Steele this story! Fantastic weaving of past and present.
👑I usually get so lost and confused with alternating timeline stories, but Leah Steele managed to weave this story in such a way that it was engaging and entertaining.
👑So one POV takes place 500 years in the past, and the other is in present day. We have 4 alpha males, the leaders of the Shifter council who meet every year. They are the best of friend, and take a brief vacation before the yearly Summit of shifters.
👑Cecily the princess from the past. Betrayed and in a present day 500 year stasis. We get the background of how poor Cecily was betrayed. And we get the mens struggle to protect her in the present.
👑This story ends with a cliffhanger that breaks my heart. I can't wait to see where Leah Steele will take the story from here. I really have so many more thoughts and I just wanted to make sure I didn't spoil the story in anyway. I received an ARC for a honest review. Once you read this I'm open for more talking over this story because man I can't wait to read book 2!
#bookstagram #bookblogger #2021reads #review #arcreview #arcreader #NefariousBetrayal #PrecariousShifters #leahsteele #leahsteeleauthor #steelemyheart #reverseharem
#rejectedmates #paranormalromance #whychoose #romanceauthor #blogtour #affinityauthorservices
July 30, 2021
First of all just looking at the cover and it got me all excited to get stuck in to this book.
I love how there is a playlist on Spotify for this book 🙌🏻 .
This story has a complete different twist on wolf shifters and I find myself excited and wanting more.
I was hooked right from the start.
This is a must read book and my first book from this author too, I was pleasantly surprised and I will definitely be reading more by this author.
There is so much to unpack in this book, so much information that I’m trying to play detective to solve this mystery.
This story goes back and forth over 500 years and honestly it usually drives me nuts and I get confused but in the case of this book it just made me want more , I found myself speed reading because I just couldn’t absorb this book quick enough.
I’m not sure I can express just how much I enjoyed this book, it was bloody fantastic!
It hurt reading about Marcellus and how he was used and now abused.
Omg why did it have to end so soon, I need more already 😭 the author is killing me leaving it on such a cliff hanger . I really need more!
I can’t wait for the rest of this series, for anyone this is a sure must read!!
I love how there is a playlist on Spotify for this book 🙌🏻 .
This story has a complete different twist on wolf shifters and I find myself excited and wanting more.
I was hooked right from the start.
This is a must read book and my first book from this author too, I was pleasantly surprised and I will definitely be reading more by this author.
There is so much to unpack in this book, so much information that I’m trying to play detective to solve this mystery.
This story goes back and forth over 500 years and honestly it usually drives me nuts and I get confused but in the case of this book it just made me want more , I found myself speed reading because I just couldn’t absorb this book quick enough.
I’m not sure I can express just how much I enjoyed this book, it was bloody fantastic!
It hurt reading about Marcellus and how he was used and now abused.
Omg why did it have to end so soon, I need more already 😭 the author is killing me leaving it on such a cliff hanger . I really need more!
I can’t wait for the rest of this series, for anyone this is a sure must read!!
July 26, 2021
⭐️ 𝙀𝙙𝙞𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙨 𝙪𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙣𝙤𝙩. ⭐️
𝒢𝑒𝓃𝓇𝑒 | 𝒯𝓇𝑜𝓅𝑒𝓈: PNR
𝒫𝒪𝒱: 1st, Multiple
𝒮𝑒𝓇𝒾𝑒𝓈: Precarious Shifters, Book 1
𝒮𝓉𝑒𝒶𝓂 𝐿𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓁: 🔥
First thing I need to say, I NEED to know what happens next…immediately. The plot was FANTASTIC. The timeline and writing was done in an unusual format, with our FMC in the past most of the book and the MMCs in the present, as they raced to protect a woman they’re all drawn to. In one word, this book is: FOUNDATIONAL. And in all honesty, it’s pretty darn fantastic.
Cecily had an interesting intro. Her snark and humor made me relate to her immediately. Then when we started learning about her past, I found myself immersed in this story. Our MMCs were Derrick, Alex, Klaus, and Marcus. The POV switched through them and we were able to distinguish personalities and watch how both confused and besotted they were with the mysterious woman.
No sexy times on these pages…yet. There were some dreams that were HOT AF, and based on them I can’t wait for THAT stuff to start happening in the series. 😂
For this to be a debut novel by Leah, I have to say I’m insanely impressed and beyond eager to continue this series because I need to know everything after that cliffhanger! This PNR has a firm and addictive foundation and I’m so ready for any and everything that has to deal with this fictional world.
October 19, 2021
Fantastic start to series
Wowwww!!! Can you imagine???
Ok this review will be quick because I am dying to start book 2 and see what happens!!
This book is definitely about setting the story. It gives everyone’s background along with Cecily’s background and what went down and the steps leading up to it. Cecily is in a coma-like state the entire book. We get little from her in the beginning, presently, but most of her is dated 500 years back.
Presently, four best friends (Marcus, Klaus, Alex and Derrick), all future leaders of their pack set off for their annual trip. This trip has them buzzing and they feel a pull unlike any other to a specific location …to her. Only when they get there, they realize the location is underground. When Alex brings up Cecily from the underground lab, it’s clear they have no idea who she is but they all have this immediate reaction to defend and call MINE.
Now on a mission to wake up “sleeping beauty” and to keep her safe, they are all hunted from soldiers in order to get their test subject back… when they finally make it safe and sound, the unthinkable happens.
Book 1 to me felt like two different stories intertwining. It was AMAZING. One story is of Cecily and Marcellus from 500 years ago and the other is from Cecily and these guys that find her and devote themselves.
It’s full of twists and heartbreak. It’s also funny with side comments (WWJWD had me dying.) It also had this amazing writing that felt like you were their witnessing all of this chaos unfold.
I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough and that’s saying a lot for me since book 1 consists of almost no 🔥. Lol. We are promised more in Book 2 and I can’t wait. Lol. This was a great start to a series. I normally don’t like stories that flashback, but since it’s basically the only way we get answers as to what happened, the author finds a great way to flip it without the reader being bored. It had a great balance and I can’t wait to read more.
*Overall 5/5
*Heat 1/5
*First person POV - all 5 main characters
*Slow burn
*This book definitely sets the storyline
*Ends on a cliffhanger
Wowwww!!! Can you imagine???
Ok this review will be quick because I am dying to start book 2 and see what happens!!
This book is definitely about setting the story. It gives everyone’s background along with Cecily’s background and what went down and the steps leading up to it. Cecily is in a coma-like state the entire book. We get little from her in the beginning, presently, but most of her is dated 500 years back.
Presently, four best friends (Marcus, Klaus, Alex and Derrick), all future leaders of their pack set off for their annual trip. This trip has them buzzing and they feel a pull unlike any other to a specific location …to her. Only when they get there, they realize the location is underground. When Alex brings up Cecily from the underground lab, it’s clear they have no idea who she is but they all have this immediate reaction to defend and call MINE.
Now on a mission to wake up “sleeping beauty” and to keep her safe, they are all hunted from soldiers in order to get their test subject back… when they finally make it safe and sound, the unthinkable happens.
Book 1 to me felt like two different stories intertwining. It was AMAZING. One story is of Cecily and Marcellus from 500 years ago and the other is from Cecily and these guys that find her and devote themselves.
It’s full of twists and heartbreak. It’s also funny with side comments (WWJWD had me dying.) It also had this amazing writing that felt like you were their witnessing all of this chaos unfold.
I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough and that’s saying a lot for me since book 1 consists of almost no 🔥. Lol. We are promised more in Book 2 and I can’t wait. Lol. This was a great start to a series. I normally don’t like stories that flashback, but since it’s basically the only way we get answers as to what happened, the author finds a great way to flip it without the reader being bored. It had a great balance and I can’t wait to read more.
*Overall 5/5
*Heat 1/5
*First person POV - all 5 main characters
*Slow burn
*This book definitely sets the storyline
*Ends on a cliffhanger
September 6, 2021
Great start to series despite flashback heavy
I've just finished reading this book ... and I'm still processing. I'm going to say 4.5 stars because I was struggling to decide between 4 or 5.
Can I say, the blurb was a little misleading. The blurb indicates interaction between Cecily and her saviours, but that didn't actually happen in this book. I'm sure that part will come in the next book.
Now I know some people hate cliffhangers. I actually don't hate cliffhangers, yes sometimes they distress me, but some of my favourite books have the worst cliffhangers. What I do dislike however is lots of flashbacks. As you can imagine, I spent much of this book in flashback frustration and I had to work through those feelings.
I do feel that this book feels like a pre-story, an introduction really. This is the book that introduces the world building, the backstory and the characters, the villain. At the end of it, I'm left with many questions and not many answers.
Overall, I think this was a good book. Yes, I faced some frustration, but the story was unique and engaging. The author seemed to have it well planned out in the way the present timeline linked in with past events culminating in ... well I don't want to leave spoilers.
I've just finished reading this book ... and I'm still processing. I'm going to say 4.5 stars because I was struggling to decide between 4 or 5.
Can I say, the blurb was a little misleading. The blurb indicates interaction between Cecily and her saviours, but that didn't actually happen in this book. I'm sure that part will come in the next book.
Now I know some people hate cliffhangers. I actually don't hate cliffhangers, yes sometimes they distress me, but some of my favourite books have the worst cliffhangers. What I do dislike however is lots of flashbacks. As you can imagine, I spent much of this book in flashback frustration and I had to work through those feelings.
I do feel that this book feels like a pre-story, an introduction really. This is the book that introduces the world building, the backstory and the characters, the villain. At the end of it, I'm left with many questions and not many answers.
Overall, I think this was a good book. Yes, I faced some frustration, but the story was unique and engaging. The author seemed to have it well planned out in the way the present timeline linked in with past events culminating in ... well I don't want to leave spoilers.
November 24, 2025
I wasn't even going to add this bc I literally dnf'ed at 2%, but I just had to comment.
At 1%, when the FMC unironically uses the term "back that badonkadonk up", I nearly closed it the book. I thought, let me just try, maybe it's a one time terrible use of such words. I was wrong.
The FMC's internal monologue in the prologue, might just be the worst, most painful and mind numbing thing I've ever read. A solid mixture of what you'd expect from an 13 year olds first Wattpad publication, a Disney narrator, and those 50 year olds who try to speak like they THINK young adults do.
Some things I genuinely sizzled my eyeballs (and brain) with in JUST the prologue included the classic "Awkward!", "that sucked" and when she describes being 'distracted by her own sexy body' again.
Overall, I lost a good chunk of brain cells, considering setting my Kindle on fire, and nearly cried.
On a positive note, I stopped reading it.
At 1%, when the FMC unironically uses the term "back that badonkadonk up", I nearly closed it the book. I thought, let me just try, maybe it's a one time terrible use of such words. I was wrong.
The FMC's internal monologue in the prologue, might just be the worst, most painful and mind numbing thing I've ever read. A solid mixture of what you'd expect from an 13 year olds first Wattpad publication, a Disney narrator, and those 50 year olds who try to speak like they THINK young adults do.
Some things I genuinely sizzled my eyeballs (and brain) with in JUST the prologue included the classic "Awkward!", "that sucked" and when she describes being 'distracted by her own sexy body' again.
Overall, I lost a good chunk of brain cells, considering setting my Kindle on fire, and nearly cried.
On a positive note, I stopped reading it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2021
I'm addicted...
‘Our princess doesn’t believe in the old saying, “time heals all wounds.”...’
This book starts on a gold mine, of humour, even in the eyes of the predicament that Cecily is in, it’s been written so smooth, with all the feelings included.
I don’t want to ruin it for anyone, because it’s been written in a way that intertwines the story, from multiple sides, from past to present with a perfect stitch.
This is a very different way of reading a paranormal romance, especially fated/rejected mates, but I have to say ‘I’m a little addicted, mostly because of the built that you will experience, it gave you understand of everything…refreshingly, and I giggled a lot, it was so unexpected, I also felt the guys had a very different, personality that made it even more enjoyable, I can’t wait to see what else is going to come from this author, I might become your new book stalker.
XOX Lottie.
‘Our princess doesn’t believe in the old saying, “time heals all wounds.”...’
This book starts on a gold mine, of humour, even in the eyes of the predicament that Cecily is in, it’s been written so smooth, with all the feelings included.
I don’t want to ruin it for anyone, because it’s been written in a way that intertwines the story, from multiple sides, from past to present with a perfect stitch.
This is a very different way of reading a paranormal romance, especially fated/rejected mates, but I have to say ‘I’m a little addicted, mostly because of the built that you will experience, it gave you understand of everything…refreshingly, and I giggled a lot, it was so unexpected, I also felt the guys had a very different, personality that made it even more enjoyable, I can’t wait to see what else is going to come from this author, I might become your new book stalker.
XOX Lottie.
August 5, 2021
Different from the usual PNR
I can honestly say that I’ve never read a book like this. As with all of my reads I didn’t read the blurb for this book, after I’ve downloaded I like to be surprised at what I’m picking up. This is a PNR reverse harem series that’s slow burn, flipping between present and 500 years previous.
Because the flips in time, you get to know the main men in this book and learn of their friendship and learn of the main female characters past. It’s so hard to describe this one, if you enjoy being taken on a journey with lots of paranormal world building I recommend this one. Just as I was finally getting some answers to my running list of questions, the book was over. I’m looking forward to see what happens in book two
I can honestly say that I’ve never read a book like this. As with all of my reads I didn’t read the blurb for this book, after I’ve downloaded I like to be surprised at what I’m picking up. This is a PNR reverse harem series that’s slow burn, flipping between present and 500 years previous.
Because the flips in time, you get to know the main men in this book and learn of their friendship and learn of the main female characters past. It’s so hard to describe this one, if you enjoy being taken on a journey with lots of paranormal world building I recommend this one. Just as I was finally getting some answers to my running list of questions, the book was over. I’m looking forward to see what happens in book two
August 16, 2021
***Author*** ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Leah Steele is a brand new author I was lucky to come across in a FB group of another brand new author. Let me just say these ladies that are new to writing are killing it. I've read a ton of books in my time, and some of those seasoned authors still don't put out great books...or it takes them a few books to really get in the grove of being good at their story telling. I can confidently say Leah hit the ground running with Nefarious Betrayal. September 2nd can't get here soon enough for the release of Erased Certainty.
***Book***⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Nefarious Betrayal sets the tone of Cecily's current situation by giving us flashbacks to her past from 500 years ago while we are in present day. In between those moments from her past we are given introduction to 4 guys...Alex, Klaus, Derrick, and Marcus. 4 Alpha shifters, best friends, who are meeting up for their yearly "vacation" together. Along their way to meet up with each other, they all find themselves drawn to this undeniable need to search out and protect. Alex is the first to arrive to this drive that was pulling them, and he finds a hidden bunker. Once the other 3 guys arrive they find that Alex has found a female that's unconscious. All 4 guys have this extreme need to protect her at all costs. From there the guys do everything to get her to safety, and have to put up quite the fight to make that happen, and they do. With the past POV from Cecily we learn so much about her situation with her fated mate, who just happens to be one of the 4 alphas who rescued her. He thinks he's just meeting her for the first time in his life. He doesn't even know that he has a past life with her from 500 yrs ago, much less that he's existed that long. He can feel that they are mates, but he has no clue about any of it. Let me just say the ending is a cliffy, and a good one that has me dying to read book 2 already. Book one is a slow burn on the spice level, but it's super sweet, and well written. Book 2 has all the promises of turning that spice level up,and I can't wait💯🥵🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥😁
Leah Steele is a brand new author I was lucky to come across in a FB group of another brand new author. Let me just say these ladies that are new to writing are killing it. I've read a ton of books in my time, and some of those seasoned authors still don't put out great books...or it takes them a few books to really get in the grove of being good at their story telling. I can confidently say Leah hit the ground running with Nefarious Betrayal. September 2nd can't get here soon enough for the release of Erased Certainty.
***Book***⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Nefarious Betrayal sets the tone of Cecily's current situation by giving us flashbacks to her past from 500 years ago while we are in present day. In between those moments from her past we are given introduction to 4 guys...Alex, Klaus, Derrick, and Marcus. 4 Alpha shifters, best friends, who are meeting up for their yearly "vacation" together. Along their way to meet up with each other, they all find themselves drawn to this undeniable need to search out and protect. Alex is the first to arrive to this drive that was pulling them, and he finds a hidden bunker. Once the other 3 guys arrive they find that Alex has found a female that's unconscious. All 4 guys have this extreme need to protect her at all costs. From there the guys do everything to get her to safety, and have to put up quite the fight to make that happen, and they do. With the past POV from Cecily we learn so much about her situation with her fated mate, who just happens to be one of the 4 alphas who rescued her. He thinks he's just meeting her for the first time in his life. He doesn't even know that he has a past life with her from 500 yrs ago, much less that he's existed that long. He can feel that they are mates, but he has no clue about any of it. Let me just say the ending is a cliffy, and a good one that has me dying to read book 2 already. Book one is a slow burn on the spice level, but it's super sweet, and well written. Book 2 has all the promises of turning that spice level up,and I can't wait💯🥵🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥😁
August 1, 2021
I really enjoyed the storyline and this book! The storyline was original and creative. The way this book was written was really interesting as well because you toggle between Cecily’s past and present (there’s about a 500 year difference between the two). So I thought that alone really kept things moving along quickly. You know from reading the blurb and from Cecily herself in the beginning of the book that her mate rejected and betrayed her but you don’t know how they got there. I still have a lot of questions that I’m hoping will be answered in book 2 on that. It seems like the characters themselves have them as well. I loved all the guys and their dynamic together they were so much fun.
August 1, 2021
Wow! Nefarious Betrayal takes us on an emotional journey!
The story is told in Cecily’s pov, 500 yrs. ago in the past and tells us what happened to her leading up to her being betrayed. The other pov is from present day when Alex, Klaus, Derrick and Marcus rescued Cecily’s from the underground bunker and are being pursued by men trying to get her back.
I really enjoyed this story! I devoured it in one day and it kept me on the edge of my seat to the very end. I can’t wait to see what happens next because that cliffhanger left me needing the next book right now!
The story is told in Cecily’s pov, 500 yrs. ago in the past and tells us what happened to her leading up to her being betrayed. The other pov is from present day when Alex, Klaus, Derrick and Marcus rescued Cecily’s from the underground bunker and are being pursued by men trying to get her back.
I really enjoyed this story! I devoured it in one day and it kept me on the edge of my seat to the very end. I can’t wait to see what happens next because that cliffhanger left me needing the next book right now!
September 17, 2021
This was such a unique story and one I’ve never read before and let me tell you I’m here for it !!! The writing was amazing it flowed nicely between past and present the characters were so interesting each one of them. This author is definitely onto something here with this series and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
January 3, 2022
Okay I went into this blind and loved this book. The only reason it’s not five stars is the constant time jumps, the switch every chapter was jarring for me so it was hard to stay in the moment. I loved the story though, the premise is super interesting that lead me to wanting more. I read this in one sitting because I needed answers (still do). I’m super excited to continue this series.
January 8, 2022
The story was interesting but it was just so slow. I feel like this could have been condensed down a little to the point where this entire book was the first half of a book. Having said that, I did really like the backstory sections, as well as the fact that all of the guys had distinct personalities.
August 1, 2021
I absolutely loved this first book by Leah Steele! So many twists and turns keep you reading and wanting more as you go through the amazing world building that she has created. Her characters are fantastic and I can't wait to see what happens next because that ending is not so very nice.
Read
January 2, 2024DNF’ed at 31%
It was just too difficult to follow with the constantly changing POV and the back and forth time period (pet peeve of mine for most stories). I had no clue when we were in the past or in the present sometimes.
Since it was less than halfway, I’m not giving a star rating.
It was just too difficult to follow with the constantly changing POV and the back and forth time period (pet peeve of mine for most stories). I had no clue when we were in the past or in the present sometimes.
Since it was less than halfway, I’m not giving a star rating.
July 28, 2021
If you love cliffhangers this is one book you want to read!
There are two different time lines in this book, you get Cecily's POV from the past which explains on what happened to her.
Then you get Alex, Klaus, Marcus and Derrick's POV in the future. I really enjoyed how their POV's made you fall in love with these characters.
Wish there was more steam, but hope in the next book gets better more intense in the steam. With this being the first book in this series it was a great read and eagerly awaiting for book 2 to come out.
There are two different time lines in this book, you get Cecily's POV from the past which explains on what happened to her.
Then you get Alex, Klaus, Marcus and Derrick's POV in the future. I really enjoyed how their POV's made you fall in love with these characters.
Wish there was more steam, but hope in the next book gets better more intense in the steam. With this being the first book in this series it was a great read and eagerly awaiting for book 2 to come out.
July 22, 2021
Cecily is slated to become Queen, but she’ll need to find her fated mate first. With her mate found, Cecily is horribly betrayed and rejected. Now she is stuck in a form of suspended animation, and has been for 500 years.
Four heirs, and lifelong best friends, are drawn to a spot in the woods, not knowing what they’ll find, but knowing it is important to them all. What they find is a comatosed beauty who is being held captive. Who is she? Will she awaken? Why was she being held? Why is she so important to them all?
This is an amazing read! It is told from Cecily’s past point of view, as she is in a coma-like state throughout the book, and the guys’ present point of view. I loved the characters, I especially loved their witty internal monologues, and the storyline is fantastic! The world building is incredible, I loved the details!
I loved this story and would definitely recommend it! I cannot wait for the next book!
Four heirs, and lifelong best friends, are drawn to a spot in the woods, not knowing what they’ll find, but knowing it is important to them all. What they find is a comatosed beauty who is being held captive. Who is she? Will she awaken? Why was she being held? Why is she so important to them all?
This is an amazing read! It is told from Cecily’s past point of view, as she is in a coma-like state throughout the book, and the guys’ present point of view. I loved the characters, I especially loved their witty internal monologues, and the storyline is fantastic! The world building is incredible, I loved the details!
I loved this story and would definitely recommend it! I cannot wait for the next book!
July 23, 2021
Cecily is the future Queen and awaiting meeting her mate. Along comes Silas insisting his nephew is the one.
Following twists and turns and a horrendous betrayal Cecily ends up in the wrong hands, tortured and tested on. She gives her point of view over the past 500 years whilst she is comatose from the testing she has been subjective to!
Four shifter alpha friends meet up for their usual treks they do and find themselves drawn to a certain spot. Upon finding the body of a beautiful comatose female they all believe to be their mate. They are tracked and hunted by teams trying to take her back.
The storyline keeps you on your toes and shows you her point of view from when she was younger and before she was betrayed by Silas and Marcellus.
The ending was awesome and I cannot wait to find out what the others think of Marcus after!!
Following twists and turns and a horrendous betrayal Cecily ends up in the wrong hands, tortured and tested on. She gives her point of view over the past 500 years whilst she is comatose from the testing she has been subjective to!
Four shifter alpha friends meet up for their usual treks they do and find themselves drawn to a certain spot. Upon finding the body of a beautiful comatose female they all believe to be their mate. They are tracked and hunted by teams trying to take her back.
The storyline keeps you on your toes and shows you her point of view from when she was younger and before she was betrayed by Silas and Marcellus.
The ending was awesome and I cannot wait to find out what the others think of Marcus after!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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