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Cambric Creek After Darkverse #1
Run, Run Rabbit (Cambric Creek After Darkverse, #1)
Vanessa loves having Grayson Hemming chase her, and she'll do anything to keep him running.
When young werewolf Vanessa Blevin begins working at new law firm, she expects long hours, hard work, and harder personalities. Her boss is a demanding, demeaning bully who begins cutting her down on her very first day — cutting her down and setting her blood on fire. Grayson Hemming is tall, dark, alphahole handsome, the exact sort of werewolf she does not need in her life . . . but there's something about the way he smells, his cutting smile, and the way his eyes always seem to find her. Her wolf wants his, and the feeling is mutual.
The lines between their professional lives and personal desires are blurred every full moon in his bed, and the only way she knows how to keep from being burned is to keep running.
When she attends an exclusive Lupercalia celebration just outside of Cambric Creek, she knows exactly what to expect. The whole town knows what goes on at the invitation-only werewolf soirées, and every last one of them is eager for an invite. The Lupercalia festivities are an ancient rite of fertility and carnality, of sex and sweat and celebration, and she knows one of the wolves will have her before the night is done. One of them will have her, but only one wolf will do. One wolf, one knot, one set of teeth at her back . . . but he'll have to catch her first.
Run, Run Rabbit is a part of the Cambric Creek After Darkverse and can be enjoyed as a standalone. The After Darkverse is NOT the same lightweight fluff you can expect from the main Cambric Creek series — there is no guarantee of a HEA, and the relationships will be darker. A bit less sugar and a lot more spice.
Content advisories for Run, Run Rabbit include: Primal play, chase play, exhibitionism, knotting, non-monogamous relationship, shifted *relations*, inappropriate workplace romance, pregnancy termination, and a decently toxic relationship.
When young werewolf Vanessa Blevin begins working at new law firm, she expects long hours, hard work, and harder personalities. Her boss is a demanding, demeaning bully who begins cutting her down on her very first day — cutting her down and setting her blood on fire. Grayson Hemming is tall, dark, alphahole handsome, the exact sort of werewolf she does not need in her life . . . but there's something about the way he smells, his cutting smile, and the way his eyes always seem to find her. Her wolf wants his, and the feeling is mutual.
The lines between their professional lives and personal desires are blurred every full moon in his bed, and the only way she knows how to keep from being burned is to keep running.
When she attends an exclusive Lupercalia celebration just outside of Cambric Creek, she knows exactly what to expect. The whole town knows what goes on at the invitation-only werewolf soirées, and every last one of them is eager for an invite. The Lupercalia festivities are an ancient rite of fertility and carnality, of sex and sweat and celebration, and she knows one of the wolves will have her before the night is done. One of them will have her, but only one wolf will do. One wolf, one knot, one set of teeth at her back . . . but he'll have to catch her first.
Run, Run Rabbit is a part of the Cambric Creek After Darkverse and can be enjoyed as a standalone. The After Darkverse is NOT the same lightweight fluff you can expect from the main Cambric Creek series — there is no guarantee of a HEA, and the relationships will be darker. A bit less sugar and a lot more spice.
Content advisories for Run, Run Rabbit include: Primal play, chase play, exhibitionism, knotting, non-monogamous relationship, shifted *relations*, inappropriate workplace romance, pregnancy termination, and a decently toxic relationship.
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 15, 2022
903 people are currently reading
3464 people want to read
About the author
C.M. Nascosta
29 books4,244 followersC.M. Nascosta is an author and professional procrastinator from Cleveland, Ohio. As a child, she thought that living on Lake Erie meant one was eerie by nature, and her corresponding love of all things strange and unusual started young. She’s always preferred beasts to boys, the macabre to the milquetoast, the unknown darkness in the shadows to the Chad next door. She lives in a crumbling old Victorian with a scaredy-cat dachshund, where she writes nontraditional romances featuring beastly boys with equal parts heart and heat, and is waiting for the Hallmark Channel to get with the program and start a paranormal lovers series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 518 reviews
August 10, 2024
I wish I had read the warnings from the author before jumping in, this was NOT your typical Cambric Creek HEA story.
I walked away sad and upset and wrestled with it in my thoughts and emotions all night long. It follows 6 years in their relationship- if you could call it that.
It was basically a story of 2 werewolf attorneys who worked all the time and were “scent” mates. They found time to have sex with each other at the moon but slept with others in between? He could smell other men on her and got mad and would make her say her pussy was his but after YEARS together never stepped up and said anything about an exclusive relationship. He sucks.
She wanted a relationship with him the whole time and never stood up and said hey- this is what I want. If she didn’t care, then fine. But she did care and that doesn’t feel like respecting yourself. She has an abortion- triggers.
Which felt like BS because at the end he has to do the whole suburban family thing and maybe kids were ok now???
Not recommended unfortunately if you are looking for a fun monster story and I am glad the pre-order link went down so I didn’t end up buying it.
I am not sure what the point to this story was? It was a HFN instead of HEA, it felt unfinished, disjointed, the story was all over the place. The timelines were not easy to follow.
It was creative but just sad to me.
I walked away sad and upset and wrestled with it in my thoughts and emotions all night long. It follows 6 years in their relationship- if you could call it that.
It was basically a story of 2 werewolf attorneys who worked all the time and were “scent” mates. They found time to have sex with each other at the moon but slept with others in between? He could smell other men on her and got mad and would make her say her pussy was his but after YEARS together never stepped up and said anything about an exclusive relationship. He sucks.
She wanted a relationship with him the whole time and never stood up and said hey- this is what I want. If she didn’t care, then fine. But she did care and that doesn’t feel like respecting yourself. She has an abortion- triggers.
Which felt like BS because at the end he has to do the whole suburban family thing and maybe kids were ok now???
Not recommended unfortunately if you are looking for a fun monster story and I am glad the pre-order link went down so I didn’t end up buying it.
I am not sure what the point to this story was? It was a HFN instead of HEA, it felt unfinished, disjointed, the story was all over the place. The timelines were not easy to follow.
It was creative but just sad to me.
July 31, 2022
this was...interesting👀 on the one hand, it was a very hot, short, monstrous KU read. But at the same time I didn't really love anything about it?
imo the last several books from this author could've used a titch more editing, but this one definitely needed more. It looks like the majority of readers also found the time-jumping very difficult to follow, and any time the story is choppy like that I find it harder to settle into the story. I also never found the hero likeable on any level— he's unashamedly an asshole their relationship felt pretty toxic (i will grant that the author denotes this as a content warning) and i honestly think she should've gotten with his brother Tobin, who was at least nice to her. IDK Grayson just gave "rich privileged white man who thinks about himself," the energy was imo very much a Christian Grey style "I don't make love, I FUCK"
and if the point of this book was just to be a horny shifter book with a slight workplace vibe, i think that would be fine? but then there's quite a bit of plot centering around her spending time with his family, winning them over, and "we can't make this serious or else he won't like me anymore" angst that felt incongruous with the smutty werewolf aspect of the book. Like it was trying to be both a romance and erotica, and bc it tried to be both it didn't really nail either for me? The sexy bits were great but I ended up skimming large swaths of the "romance/relationship" bits because I A) didn't believe it and B) didn't care
tl;dr a decent one-handed read if you like smutty werewolves/omegaverse adjacent books and are willing to skim a bit, but imo doesn't work as a romance & needed more editing, a 2.5⭐️ read for me
ETA: it looks like in the comments of a recent post the author makes a comment about "not expecting a romance HEA" but if you're a romance author, all the books you've written so far are romances, and you don't properly communicate that a new release isn't really a romance, imo thats on you if your readers expectations are thwarted & that affects their enjoyment of your book🤷🏼♀️
Content Notes: Vanessa Blevin is a cis straight white werewolf woman in her mid 20s, and works in some legal capacity for the same firm that the hero Grayson (is straight white werewolf man, in his 30s) is a part owner of, and he's also her boss. This book contains depictions of on page sex, a non-monogamous relationship, an inappropriate workplace romance, and an abortion
imo the last several books from this author could've used a titch more editing, but this one definitely needed more. It looks like the majority of readers also found the time-jumping very difficult to follow, and any time the story is choppy like that I find it harder to settle into the story. I also never found the hero likeable on any level— he's unashamedly an asshole their relationship felt pretty toxic (i will grant that the author denotes this as a content warning) and i honestly think she should've gotten with his brother Tobin, who was at least nice to her. IDK Grayson just gave "rich privileged white man who thinks about himself," the energy was imo very much a Christian Grey style "I don't make love, I FUCK"
and if the point of this book was just to be a horny shifter book with a slight workplace vibe, i think that would be fine? but then there's quite a bit of plot centering around her spending time with his family, winning them over, and "we can't make this serious or else he won't like me anymore" angst that felt incongruous with the smutty werewolf aspect of the book. Like it was trying to be both a romance and erotica, and bc it tried to be both it didn't really nail either for me? The sexy bits were great but I ended up skimming large swaths of the "romance/relationship" bits because I A) didn't believe it and B) didn't care
tl;dr a decent one-handed read if you like smutty werewolves/omegaverse adjacent books and are willing to skim a bit, but imo doesn't work as a romance & needed more editing, a 2.5⭐️ read for me
ETA: it looks like in the comments of a recent post the author makes a comment about "not expecting a romance HEA" but if you're a romance author, all the books you've written so far are romances, and you don't properly communicate that a new release isn't really a romance, imo thats on you if your readers expectations are thwarted & that affects their enjoyment of your book🤷🏼♀️
Content Notes: Vanessa Blevin is a cis straight white werewolf woman in her mid 20s, and works in some legal capacity for the same firm that the hero Grayson (is straight white werewolf man, in his 30s) is a part owner of, and he's also her boss. This book contains depictions of on page sex, a non-monogamous relationship, an inappropriate workplace romance, and an abortion
July 24, 2022
This one was an absolute mess to read. I really didn’t enjoy it at all. I kept waiting for it to come back and all make sense, but no. None of the plot devices used in this book came together to make a cohesive plot. Everything was just laying in the air and it honestly made this book unbearable to read.
July 24, 2022
“Is he an alpha or just an asshole?”
Holy moly. CM Nascosta does it again!
Now, make sure to read the trigger warnings listed in the beginning of the book. (TW’s: sex with multiple parters, non-monogamy, mention of abortion, ect..) This book in an addition to the lovely Cambric Creek world CM Nascosta has built but with a darker, steamier twist.
Don’t me wrong I love a soft and sweet hero (still thinking of mothman) but something about Gray and his Big Alpha Energy was absolutely delicious.
Both of our characters are werewolves working in a law firm and they had been bouncing around their attraction for each other since the day they met. Finally, they decide to feed into those urges and spend a moon heat together and thus begins their tumultuous relationship.
This book was STEAMY. The primal chase scenes were everything I could have ever wanted and CM Nascosta literally has you squirming for more. I devoured this entire book in one sitting because I was absolutely obsessed.
They both give Alpha energy and love the thrill of the chase and competition when it comes to their relationships. I loved how unapologetic both of our characters were- even despite how stubborn they could be lol. No matter what games they were playing they always came back to each other. Something about this pairing just WORKED and I loved every second of it.
Holy moly. CM Nascosta does it again!
Now, make sure to read the trigger warnings listed in the beginning of the book. (TW’s: sex with multiple parters, non-monogamy, mention of abortion, ect..) This book in an addition to the lovely Cambric Creek world CM Nascosta has built but with a darker, steamier twist.
Don’t me wrong I love a soft and sweet hero (still thinking of mothman) but something about Gray and his Big Alpha Energy was absolutely delicious.
Both of our characters are werewolves working in a law firm and they had been bouncing around their attraction for each other since the day they met. Finally, they decide to feed into those urges and spend a moon heat together and thus begins their tumultuous relationship.
This book was STEAMY. The primal chase scenes were everything I could have ever wanted and CM Nascosta literally has you squirming for more. I devoured this entire book in one sitting because I was absolutely obsessed.
They both give Alpha energy and love the thrill of the chase and competition when it comes to their relationships. I loved how unapologetic both of our characters were- even despite how stubborn they could be lol. No matter what games they were playing they always came back to each other. Something about this pairing just WORKED and I loved every second of it.
July 26, 2022
DNF. Lot's of sleeping around for anyone and everyone in the book... with no plans to stop in the future... Pretty much being a wolf means constant sleeping around regardless of their relationship status. Big thumbs down. I was hoping for at least a little romance not whatever this was.
October 9, 2022
C.M. Nascosta never disappoints
I keep thinking that surely CM Nascosta can’t beat out her previous novel as my favorite, but here we are.
The writing was beautiful, Vanessa was so freaking badass that I wish I could be like her. The banter between her and Grayson was on point! I feel like he was the true definition of an alphahole.
I enjoyed the flashbacks that eventually morphed into present, it was unique and captured my attention and didn’t let go until the end. However, the flashbacks sometimes flashbacked (or did they flashforward too?) and it got hard to keep track of where and when things are/were taking place.
The spice in this book was next level, just what you’d expect from this author.
I only wished there was more to the story. I needed more to their relationship, if you can even call it that. I’m glad Nessa and Gray will show up in the next book because I desperately need to actually see them together, since this ended ambiguously. Well, it was a HEA, but it didn't feel like it after a whole book of them not being in a relationship, separating, and it ending with them not being in a relationship. I understand this was representing non-monogamy, but damn, idk if they even said they liked each other or if they wanna be exclusive at the end lol.
This definitely wasn’t as sweet and wholesome as her previous works, but I don't think you will be disappointed, please give this a read.
I keep thinking that surely CM Nascosta can’t beat out her previous novel as my favorite, but here we are.
The writing was beautiful, Vanessa was so freaking badass that I wish I could be like her. The banter between her and Grayson was on point! I feel like he was the true definition of an alphahole.
I enjoyed the flashbacks that eventually morphed into present, it was unique and captured my attention and didn’t let go until the end. However, the flashbacks sometimes flashbacked (or did they flashforward too?) and it got hard to keep track of where and when things are/were taking place.
The spice in this book was next level, just what you’d expect from this author.
I only wished there was more to the story. I needed more to their relationship, if you can even call it that. I’m glad Nessa and Gray will show up in the next book because I desperately need to actually see them together, since this ended ambiguously. Well, it was a HEA, but it didn't feel like it after a whole book of them not being in a relationship, separating, and it ending with them not being in a relationship. I understand this was representing non-monogamy, but damn, idk if they even said they liked each other or if they wanna be exclusive at the end lol.
This definitely wasn’t as sweet and wholesome as her previous works, but I don't think you will be disappointed, please give this a read.
July 24, 2022
This book is a lot different than Nascosta's other saccharine monster romances. All the CWs are clearly defined in the synopsis, which was helpful because I knew going in that it wasn't going to be fluffy. This one definitely reads more like erotica and less like a romance. There's hunting/primal play, public sex, mention of sex with other partners, and abortion. Gray and Vanessa are both alphas and they constantly bicker and their relationship is full of toxic miscommunication, so if you're not a fan of that, this book probably isn't for you. Their story is supposed to continue in the next book in the series, so I hope we get more details about their resolution.
July 25, 2022
Idk how to feel. I love the Cambric Creek books and I really enjoyed Vanessa and Grayson's banter but their situationship was confusing as fuck.
I genuinely had no idea what was happening between them for most of the book and the fact that they were both sleeping with other people was not my fave I'm ngl. Her relationship with his family seemed more tight knit then her relationship with him! Also are we not gonna talk about the random abortion halfway through the book?! It happens and then just isn't brought up again. There's nothing wrong with it, just that it seemed to come out of left field. The miscommunication was real and at some points I was just kinda yelling at my screen.
Don't get me wrong the smut is great and if you like dark and smutty with a touch of angst, you will like this novella. That being said, I get that it's a dark romance but I would've prefered a little more communication between the two of them throughout the book.The random time jumps also lost me several times. I know we were told not to expect a HEA but the ending made it seem like they were still stuck going around in circles. I don't know but I really hope we see their relationship round out in Moon Blooded Breeding Clinic.
I genuinely had no idea what was happening between them for most of the book and the fact that they were both sleeping with other people was not my fave I'm ngl. Her relationship with his family seemed more tight knit then her relationship with him! Also are we not gonna talk about the random abortion halfway through the book?! It happens and then just isn't brought up again. There's nothing wrong with it, just that it seemed to come out of left field. The miscommunication was real and at some points I was just kinda yelling at my screen.
Don't get me wrong the smut is great and if you like dark and smutty with a touch of angst, you will like this novella. That being said, I get that it's a dark romance but I would've prefered a little more communication between the two of them throughout the book.The random time jumps also lost me several times. I know we were told not to expect a HEA but the ending made it seem like they were still stuck going around in circles. I don't know but I really hope we see their relationship round out in Moon Blooded Breeding Clinic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2023
This book really didn't work for me. I totally get what the author was trying to do by showing a different sort of relationship in a romance book... but it ultimately left me just feeling really... sad. The hero is mean. He's not an alphahole - he's just plain mean. He plays games with the heroine and the two of them sleep with others. And I guess there can be relationships where people do this but for me... it just feels wrong. Especially because the heroine was so hurt by it. A really rough read and one I was thinking about for days after like, "did they get a HEA? are they happy??"
November 15, 2023
Run, rabbit. Let’s see how fast you can move.
I enjoyed this. There were a few things that made me pause a little, but I kept turning pages. I actually listened to the audio on Hoopla while reading the KU book, so that I could highlight. I thought it was a good read. If you’re a reader who likes their romance to be “safe” where there are no other parties involved in the spicy non-emotional side of things, then you may not enjoy this one. I thought it was good and I enjoyed the whole scent match, but not monogamous type deal. Is there a HEA, I’d say it’s more of a HFN with an angsty spice filled road to get there.
TW/CW (these will include spoilers. turn away now): accidental pregnancy, abortion, sex with OM/OW, discussions of trafficking, thoughts of BDSM choking/suffocating, sex between a shifted shifter and an unshifted shifter.
I enjoyed this. There were a few things that made me pause a little, but I kept turning pages. I actually listened to the audio on Hoopla while reading the KU book, so that I could highlight. I thought it was a good read. If you’re a reader who likes their romance to be “safe” where there are no other parties involved in the spicy non-emotional side of things, then you may not enjoy this one. I thought it was good and I enjoyed the whole scent match, but not monogamous type deal. Is there a HEA, I’d say it’s more of a HFN with an angsty spice filled road to get there.
TW/CW (these will include spoilers. turn away now): accidental pregnancy, abortion, sex with OM/OW, discussions of trafficking, thoughts of BDSM choking/suffocating, sex between a shifted shifter and an unshifted shifter.
dnfs
February 3, 2025No rating
Dnf @ 10%
I saw a special edition that looked pretty, so I wanted to read it before buying, and boy am I glad this was on KU...
It was just boring, and I was only 10% through.... I didn't care for the writing, story, setting, or FMC so... since it was my goal to dnf more books this year... this will be on the list.
I like Werewolf stories so maybe I'll pick this back up when I'm in the mood, but I've read better ones tbh..
Dnf @ 10%
I saw a special edition that looked pretty, so I wanted to read it before buying, and boy am I glad this was on KU...
It was just boring, and I was only 10% through.... I didn't care for the writing, story, setting, or FMC so... since it was my goal to dnf more books this year... this will be on the list.
I like Werewolf stories so maybe I'll pick this back up when I'm in the mood, but I've read better ones tbh..
August 18, 2022
First and foremost: read the content warning and description on this one and take it seriously before proceeding to the story.
You were adequately warned.
So.
There is a lot to dig into with this first short novel about the Hemming wolves by C.M. Nascosta. This is part of her Cambric Creek universe—but not the sweet Hallmark-esque side of things. Grayson does not belong on that side, and frankly, neither does Vanessa. They're both too toxic and into fuckery to cross over there.
I found a lot to like in this book. Took my time and chewed on it a bit, since there's usually more going on than just the surface level story.
Story spoilers are under the tags. When I analyze it's what I do.
First, the MCs.
Both Grayson and Vanessa are too similar for their own good. Truly, they're both assholes—full of mind games, trying to get the upper hand, and asserting dominance over the other. Toxic AF as both individuals and in a relationship together. They had no qualms about cutting each other. And it was pretty delightful to read, since I wasn't focused on trying to actually like either of them. I knew I wouldn't, so I just enjoyed the ride as these two fucked each other over. Now, the interesting thing is that despite this book's being from Vanessa's POV, it was actually easier to dial in on Grayson and what his issues are and likely causes for them. Because even as a narrator, Vanessa does not let you anywhere near her. While Grayson comes from a prominent, wealthy family with a very toxic father who starts his sons on these toxic games early in life and Grayson aims to Win, we do not know much at all about Vanessa. Why is she as twisted and scarily ambitious as she is? How does someone with this temperament end up as a public defender? We're never given a clue. She doesn't trust us enough to tell, and she clearly doesn't dwell on things—a trait both she and Grayson share. They Move and Act; they do not Dwell and Reflect. Their relationship that starts as scratching an itch very quickly develops into something neither of them can process nor have the emotional intelligence to figure out.
Which leads me into the next thing I enjoyed—actually made Nascosta's story in the Wolves & Warriors anthology make more sense: subversion of the shifter/were mate and bond tropes. PNR readers are familiar with this staple of the genre. A were/shifter knows their mate by scent, they bond with a bite, they are a permanent unit that never strays—can not get sexually excited or interested in anyone else. Biologically enforced monogamy (or sometimes a group of more). None of that applies here. Weres definitely have scent mates and develop a strong preference and inclination toward that person, but mating bites serve no function but proof of a violent claim. A territorial claim that in their pack days warned off others. It doesn't bond the wolves together. It doesn't make them unable to be attracted to or have sex with others. Free will isn't stolen from the individuals in the bond like it is in most PNR/SFR/AR. The "safety" of loss of individual determination isn't here. There's no biological shackling.
And I'm really here for it.
If it isn't already obvious, RRR has romantic elements in play, but it's not a Romance. Look at the content warnings; it will tell you as much. At the end we're not sure exactly where Gray and Vanessa will end up in terms of each other. They're kind of together. For now. Depending on how badly Gray wants to outdo Jackson and impress his father. They're not looking for suburbia and children. They're not even sure they want to get married and be properly Together.
One of my most hated romance tropes is the Third Act Breakup—this story has one, and I think it is the best executed, most natural/organically evolved, and most believable usage of this I have seen.
And lastly, it struck me as I was reading this that it is also the story of how a Nice White Girl from the Suburbs—one who has more centrist humane political views—gets lured toward a right-wing xenophobic frame of mind: a "______ first" mindset. Vanessa starts this story being unimpressed with Father Hemming and some of his son's "werewolves first" rhetoric. She grew up among humans, and while she focused her career on providing legal representation to weres without means, she doesn't harbor any real ill-will towards them—even if they do unfairly skew everything in their favor. As the story progresses and Vanessa gets used to the exclusive treatment with Grayson, grows fond of the Hemming family, and is repeatedly exposed to the father's and Grayson's view point, she warms to it. By the end, Vanessa's views on humans are identical to both Grayson's and his father's; she's been radicalized. No traumatic events involving humans necessary. Just a family full of charismatic men with a poisonous father with a not-so-well hidden agenda and sequestering herself in a shifters/weres only company. Beginning of the story Vanessa could hardly be called sweet, but she definitely gets meaner and colder as it progresses.
All told, this is a pretty good read, and I look forward to seeing these two assholes in the sweeter stories that involve the other Hemming brothers.
You were adequately warned.
So.
There is a lot to dig into with this first short novel about the Hemming wolves by C.M. Nascosta. This is part of her Cambric Creek universe—but not the sweet Hallmark-esque side of things. Grayson does not belong on that side, and frankly, neither does Vanessa. They're both too toxic and into fuckery to cross over there.
I found a lot to like in this book. Took my time and chewed on it a bit, since there's usually more going on than just the surface level story.
Story spoilers are under the tags. When I analyze it's what I do.
First, the MCs.
Both Grayson and Vanessa are too similar for their own good. Truly, they're both assholes—full of mind games, trying to get the upper hand, and asserting dominance over the other. Toxic AF as both individuals and in a relationship together. They had no qualms about cutting each other. And it was pretty delightful to read, since I wasn't focused on trying to actually like either of them. I knew I wouldn't, so I just enjoyed the ride as these two fucked each other over. Now, the interesting thing is that despite this book's being from Vanessa's POV, it was actually easier to dial in on Grayson and what his issues are and likely causes for them. Because even as a narrator, Vanessa does not let you anywhere near her. While Grayson comes from a prominent, wealthy family with a very toxic father who starts his sons on these toxic games early in life and Grayson aims to Win, we do not know much at all about Vanessa. Why is she as twisted and scarily ambitious as she is? How does someone with this temperament end up as a public defender? We're never given a clue. She doesn't trust us enough to tell, and she clearly doesn't dwell on things—a trait both she and Grayson share. They Move and Act; they do not Dwell and Reflect. Their relationship that starts as scratching an itch very quickly develops into something neither of them can process nor have the emotional intelligence to figure out.
Which leads me into the next thing I enjoyed—actually made Nascosta's story in the Wolves & Warriors anthology make more sense: subversion of the shifter/were mate and bond tropes. PNR readers are familiar with this staple of the genre. A were/shifter knows their mate by scent, they bond with a bite, they are a permanent unit that never strays—can not get sexually excited or interested in anyone else. Biologically enforced monogamy (or sometimes a group of more). None of that applies here. Weres definitely have scent mates and develop a strong preference and inclination toward that person, but mating bites serve no function but proof of a violent claim. A territorial claim that in their pack days warned off others. It doesn't bond the wolves together. It doesn't make them unable to be attracted to or have sex with others. Free will isn't stolen from the individuals in the bond like it is in most PNR/SFR/AR. The "safety" of loss of individual determination isn't here. There's no biological shackling.
And I'm really here for it.
If it isn't already obvious, RRR has romantic elements in play, but it's not a Romance. Look at the content warnings; it will tell you as much. At the end we're not sure exactly where Gray and Vanessa will end up in terms of each other. They're kind of together. For now. Depending on how badly Gray wants to outdo Jackson and impress his father. They're not looking for suburbia and children. They're not even sure they want to get married and be properly Together.
One of my most hated romance tropes is the Third Act Breakup—this story has one, and I think it is the best executed, most natural/organically evolved, and most believable usage of this I have seen.
And lastly, it struck me as I was reading this that it is also the story of how a Nice White Girl from the Suburbs—one who has more centrist humane political views—gets lured toward a right-wing xenophobic frame of mind: a "______ first" mindset. Vanessa starts this story being unimpressed with Father Hemming and some of his son's "werewolves first" rhetoric. She grew up among humans, and while she focused her career on providing legal representation to weres without means, she doesn't harbor any real ill-will towards them—even if they do unfairly skew everything in their favor. As the story progresses and Vanessa gets used to the exclusive treatment with Grayson, grows fond of the Hemming family, and is repeatedly exposed to the father's and Grayson's view point, she warms to it. By the end, Vanessa's views on humans are identical to both Grayson's and his father's; she's been radicalized. No traumatic events involving humans necessary. Just a family full of charismatic men with a poisonous father with a not-so-well hidden agenda and sequestering herself in a shifters/weres only company. Beginning of the story Vanessa could hardly be called sweet, but she definitely gets meaner and colder as it progresses.
All told, this is a pretty good read, and I look forward to seeing these two assholes in the sweeter stories that involve the other Hemming brothers.
August 2, 2023
Welcome to the After Darkverse, am I right??!
I was a little nervous to read these toxic babies' book. I was fairly certain that Grayson and Vanessa hosted the smex party that Ainsley and Ris attend in Parties, and were the creepy, don't respect boundaries couple that followed my little orc/elf babies around. They were NOT the vibe in Parties, so I was genuinely curious how I was going to like this book.
Well, I should not have had an inkling of doubt. Of course, I'm obsessed with them now. Grayson is so so good. Like such a complete alphahole in the best way. And Vanessa. Poor Type A, bad bitch Vanessa. When she stuck her foot in it for the third act breakup, I was like. My DUDE! I cried. How could I cry for these absolute narcissists? And yet, that is the magic of C.M. Nascosta.
Then we also get a look at some of the inner workings of the Hemmings "pack" for lack of a better word. Though, please don't tell Jack I called them that. They gave me full Kennedy vibes, in the best way. Just absolutely the "Joneses" of Cambric Creek.
I love that we had a bonus abortion scene. It feels timely and important to show that sometimes abortions happen. And they don't have to be for medical reasons, though those are important too. Sometimes it's just because you're a bad bitch with bad bitch plans and ambitions that don't accommodate bring new life into the world that you're not ready for. And it's still crucial that those women can get valuable reproductive healthcare.
I could go on and on. But 5 stars for the writing. 7 peppers (out of 5) for the spice (holy wow the SPICE).
ETA: I listened to the audiobook and it's just as magical the second time around and on audio as it was when I read it last year. Vanessa is just as poor me, while also knowing that she is a freaking catch. And she's simultaneously so obsessed with not getting caught. It's a whole mood.
Grayson is down to chase her life. But refuses to tell her that. It's quite frustrating. Then you have the third act breakup where my heart broke for them all over again. You can see him opening up to her, and she assumes it's this weird game. Which is fair because their entire relationship is manipulation and games. But that was really tough. And the audio certainly did not make me feel it any less keenly!
I am so looking forward to our next trip to Cambric Creek. And doubly excited for Trapp's book!!!
I was a little nervous to read these toxic babies' book. I was fairly certain that Grayson and Vanessa hosted the smex party that Ainsley and Ris attend in Parties, and were the creepy, don't respect boundaries couple that followed my little orc/elf babies around. They were NOT the vibe in Parties, so I was genuinely curious how I was going to like this book.
Well, I should not have had an inkling of doubt. Of course, I'm obsessed with them now. Grayson is so so good. Like such a complete alphahole in the best way. And Vanessa. Poor Type A, bad bitch Vanessa. When she stuck her foot in it for the third act breakup, I was like. My DUDE! I cried. How could I cry for these absolute narcissists? And yet, that is the magic of C.M. Nascosta.
Then we also get a look at some of the inner workings of the Hemmings "pack" for lack of a better word. Though, please don't tell Jack I called them that. They gave me full Kennedy vibes, in the best way. Just absolutely the "Joneses" of Cambric Creek.
I love that we had a bonus abortion scene. It feels timely and important to show that sometimes abortions happen. And they don't have to be for medical reasons, though those are important too. Sometimes it's just because you're a bad bitch with bad bitch plans and ambitions that don't accommodate bring new life into the world that you're not ready for. And it's still crucial that those women can get valuable reproductive healthcare.
I could go on and on. But 5 stars for the writing. 7 peppers (out of 5) for the spice (holy wow the SPICE).
ETA: I listened to the audiobook and it's just as magical the second time around and on audio as it was when I read it last year. Vanessa is just as poor me, while also knowing that she is a freaking catch. And she's simultaneously so obsessed with not getting caught. It's a whole mood.
Grayson is down to chase her life. But refuses to tell her that. It's quite frustrating. Then you have the third act breakup where my heart broke for them all over again. You can see him opening up to her, and she assumes it's this weird game. Which is fair because their entire relationship is manipulation and games. But that was really tough. And the audio certainly did not make me feel it any less keenly!
I am so looking forward to our next trip to Cambric Creek. And doubly excited for Trapp's book!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 21, 2024
reread review: i'm definitely still in the incredibly slim minority that this is my favorite CMN book yet. cozy angst with high heat >>>>>>
_____________________________
Sign me up for an alphahole.
Oh, this was FUN, I devoured it in a day. It's marketed as a toxic relationship, but I actually wouldn't say that's true (or maybe I'm just really fucked up lmao). They certainly have some communication issues to iron out, and there's definitely that "I kind of hate you so much I need to fuck it out of me" in the beginning, but I think that comes from Grayson being so cocky and spoiled, with a touch of a superiority complex, while Vanessa is stubborn with the need to prove herself worthy of being in the same standing. This is not as fluffy as the Cambric Creek series with a bit of angst, but OOF is the smut good *chef's kiss*. I'm not a big werewolf/knot reader myself, but CMN's writing always has me down for anything. Her ability to write characters and their relationships so well ends up being the main focus anyways, the sex is the cherry on top. I really hope we get to see these characters later on again! Also, I definitely relate to Vanessa the most out of all the Cambric Creek ladies XD
_____________________________
Sign me up for an alphahole.
Oh, this was FUN, I devoured it in a day. It's marketed as a toxic relationship, but I actually wouldn't say that's true (or maybe I'm just really fucked up lmao). They certainly have some communication issues to iron out, and there's definitely that "I kind of hate you so much I need to fuck it out of me" in the beginning, but I think that comes from Grayson being so cocky and spoiled, with a touch of a superiority complex, while Vanessa is stubborn with the need to prove herself worthy of being in the same standing. This is not as fluffy as the Cambric Creek series with a bit of angst, but OOF is the smut good *chef's kiss*. I'm not a big werewolf/knot reader myself, but CMN's writing always has me down for anything. Her ability to write characters and their relationships so well ends up being the main focus anyways, the sex is the cherry on top. I really hope we get to see these characters later on again! Also, I definitely relate to Vanessa the most out of all the Cambric Creek ladies XD
October 4, 2024
★2.19 stars★
i'm just so tired... of werewolf romances novels that suck
i'm just so tired... of werewolf romances novels that suck
July 24, 2022
Absolutely loved this book. And both characters are perfect for each other. They are both jerks sometimes lol extremely hott book!!! I loved the ending
July 26, 2022
It was….confusing. The plot was hard to follow in places, and the time jumps were a bit unclear at times. The lack of communication between the FMC and MMC was annoying, but could have been overlooked had they made any attempt to actually talk to each other at the end of the book.
They also regularly have sex with other people throughout the book, which I wasn’t aware of going it, but that could have just been a warning I missed.
There was just an alarming lack of communication, and it was hard to find any real redeeming qualities about the MMC. I finished the book, but it was a struggle.
They also regularly have sex with other people throughout the book, which I wasn’t aware of going it, but that could have just been a warning I missed.
There was just an alarming lack of communication, and it was hard to find any real redeeming qualities about the MMC. I finished the book, but it was a struggle.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2023
i genuinely didn’t even know what the fuck was happening lmfao this shit was all over the place
not the audiobook to listen to if you can’t focus 100% but also the relationship sucked so it can’t even keep 5% of your focus
not the audiobook to listen to if you can’t focus 100% but also the relationship sucked so it can’t even keep 5% of your focus
July 25, 2022
“Run, Run Rabbit” by C.M. Nascosta
5⭐️/5⭐️
5🌶/5🌶
“Run, rabbit. Let’s see how fast you can move.”
Vanessa is granted an invitation to the exclusive Lupercalia celebration, by the famous Hemming family. She arrives itching for the festivities: the socializing, the drinks, the carnality, and most of all the chase. She’s attended these celebrations before, she knows what to expect and who she wants to chase her: Grayson Hemming. Vanessa and Grayson work at the same law firm, although Grayson is technically her boss; he’s also the biggest pain in her ass, he practically treats her like an intern with how he orders her around. But Vanessa isn’t a passive wolf, she gives as good as she gets, and she enjoys being chased by Grayson. Their relationship isn’t tied down by labels, and for years it worked for them. However, something strange is in the air. This Lupercalia feels different. How will the chase play out for Vanessa and Grayson?
-Oh, this book was deliciously spicy. Rating a book with five chili peppers is extremely rare for me, and this book nailed it; I highlighted so many quotes.
-It’s really important that the reader pays attention to the content warnings given by the author on Goodreads and Instagram. This is what the author lists: primal play, chase play, exhibitionism, knotting, non-monogamous relationship, shifted sex, inappropriate workplace romance, pregnancy termination, and a decently toxic relationship. The author has clarified that this book does not have a HEA, it’s more of a HFN (happily for now), and the FMC and MMC will be back in her next book. This story is the first in the ‘Darkverse’ version of Cambric Creek; the content is not so sweet and fuzzy. However, this is not what I would classify as a ‘dark romance’; so, please don’t be discouraged by the content warnings!
-C.M. Nascosta is known for writing sensual monster romances, most could be labeled as erotica; “Run, Run Rabbit” is definitely erotica. This is probably the best erotica I’ve ever read. The dialogue is so filthy and salacious; I couldn’t get enough of how foul Vanessa and Grayson were to each other.
-The storyline itself is extremely compelling, I had no idea where C.M. Nascosta was taking me, but I was gladly along for the ride. The Hemming family is so fascinating! Readers get a small glimpse of them in Nascosta’s short story in the “Wolves & Warriors Anthology”, and “Moon Blooded Breeding Clinic” will also focus on a Hemming brother. Honestly, I could read an entire series just about the Hemming family and be totally entertained; there are so many interesting personalities.
-If you’re looking for an extremely sexy book that can be devoured in a day, go to Kindle Unlimited and download this book!
5⭐️/5⭐️
5🌶/5🌶
“Run, rabbit. Let’s see how fast you can move.”
Vanessa is granted an invitation to the exclusive Lupercalia celebration, by the famous Hemming family. She arrives itching for the festivities: the socializing, the drinks, the carnality, and most of all the chase. She’s attended these celebrations before, she knows what to expect and who she wants to chase her: Grayson Hemming. Vanessa and Grayson work at the same law firm, although Grayson is technically her boss; he’s also the biggest pain in her ass, he practically treats her like an intern with how he orders her around. But Vanessa isn’t a passive wolf, she gives as good as she gets, and she enjoys being chased by Grayson. Their relationship isn’t tied down by labels, and for years it worked for them. However, something strange is in the air. This Lupercalia feels different. How will the chase play out for Vanessa and Grayson?
-Oh, this book was deliciously spicy. Rating a book with five chili peppers is extremely rare for me, and this book nailed it; I highlighted so many quotes.
-It’s really important that the reader pays attention to the content warnings given by the author on Goodreads and Instagram. This is what the author lists: primal play, chase play, exhibitionism, knotting, non-monogamous relationship, shifted sex, inappropriate workplace romance, pregnancy termination, and a decently toxic relationship. The author has clarified that this book does not have a HEA, it’s more of a HFN (happily for now), and the FMC and MMC will be back in her next book. This story is the first in the ‘Darkverse’ version of Cambric Creek; the content is not so sweet and fuzzy. However, this is not what I would classify as a ‘dark romance’; so, please don’t be discouraged by the content warnings!
-C.M. Nascosta is known for writing sensual monster romances, most could be labeled as erotica; “Run, Run Rabbit” is definitely erotica. This is probably the best erotica I’ve ever read. The dialogue is so filthy and salacious; I couldn’t get enough of how foul Vanessa and Grayson were to each other.
-The storyline itself is extremely compelling, I had no idea where C.M. Nascosta was taking me, but I was gladly along for the ride. The Hemming family is so fascinating! Readers get a small glimpse of them in Nascosta’s short story in the “Wolves & Warriors Anthology”, and “Moon Blooded Breeding Clinic” will also focus on a Hemming brother. Honestly, I could read an entire series just about the Hemming family and be totally entertained; there are so many interesting personalities.
-If you’re looking for an extremely sexy book that can be devoured in a day, go to Kindle Unlimited and download this book!
September 22, 2023
Vanessa & Grayson
One word: Frustrating.
The timelines are switched and flashbacks are interwoven in a way that you’re ultimately confused what is happening and when.
I liked that the Ritual & Hunt was used as a beginning and end. The way the book starts with a scene and we find out that this scene from the beginning is the same / same day as the one at the end. It was a nice full circle moment.
However; this could have been way more effective if these flashbacks weren’t so goddamn confusing.
All in all the book covers - I think - 6 or 7 years (I’m too annoyed to look it up) so time jumps are inevitable.
Which is fine. But when the time / scene changes several times during a single page, without a clear marker (it’s just normal text) it’s hard to know wtf is going on.
Grayson? Fuck. Him.
Her too, but I’m team Vanessa if we’re taking sides cus OH I wanted to smash his face with a frying pan multiple times.
He is downright mean & cruel to everyone at his job. he is condescending, arrogant, and cold. He does things just to spite people. He has no redeeming qualities besides from: he’s good in the sack. Which is just not enough.
He also sleeps with other people. They both do.
Frying 🍳 Pan 🍳!
These two have no communication skills whatsoever.
They clash regularly. They aren’t honest about what they’re doing and can’t even ask ppl what they mean before they make life altering decisions.
Vanessa doesn’t even tell Grayson that she got pregnant and then aborted the pregnancy — cus he has a migraine that day?
I mean to be fair it’s a debilitating migraine but FFS that’s not an excuse.
FRYING 🍳🍳 PAN 🍳🍳!
He keeps on talking about how her p*say is his and ‘this is mine / belongs to me’ and makes her say exactly that — but doesn’t act like it. Again, he sleeps with other people besides her. Carefree. Not a thought in sight.
She does too eventually, however once he smells the guys, with whom she slept, on her, he goes ballistic.
Like wtf is going on. YOU NEED TO TALK PEOPLE.
Vanessa wants a proper relationship with Grayson fairly soon into their affair … but after 3 years she still can’t express her wishes? And keeps on being insecure and confused about their situation / status.
Especially bc he sends her mixed signals ALL THE TIME.
FRYING 🍳🍳🍳 PAN 🍳🍳🍳!
Grayson’s wolf form also graphically f*cks Vanessa in her human form. Meaning he first licks her til she climaxes and then …. mounts her from behind.
She also describes his wolf penis and all.
I— Just— WHAT?!
FRYYYINGGGGG 🍳🍳🍳🍳 PAAANNNNN 🍳🍳🍳🍳!!!
The author said in their newsletter “Cambric Creek’s most toxic power couple” … yeah. that about sums it up. 🙄😒
Let’s circle back to the abortion for a second: Why is that in there?
It happens. It has no influence on the story. If you would cut that segment out it would not change the story in the slightest.
Usually when you set up a thing, you should have a decent pay off. Chekhov’s gun.
I don’t like using those significant tragedies as catalyst for a deeper conversation and ultimately a deeper understanding of each other.
But not even that happens.
I seriously thought, oh there’s a pregnancy. They probably talk about it. Knowing Grayson I’m sure he would go ballistic. Being afraid of true commitment and he also expressed not to want kids — this conversation could have been such a good callback to the time they video called and he mentioned that he likes his nephew but doesn’t want kids on his own.
Like … the foundation was there why wasn’t it explored?
This is the most blatant example … but I had several moments in which I was thoroughly confused why certain things were mentioned bc they had no impact on the story. The Author doesn’t reap what they sowed. And that’s a huge bummer.
The book also doesn’t come to a satisfying conclusion. Their story is very open ended and their volatile relationship is still - or again - on the rocks. It’s a HFN … if you wanna go that far bc they don’t seem very happy. This book has no HEA.
Also, it felt like Vanessa had a big idea what to do at the end … but we don’t get it.
At the end we get told that both characters will return in ‘moon blooded breeding clinic’ (gosh these names 🫣) so I thought maybe this was just book 1 of 2 and the conclusion comes in the next book.
Nope. The next book is about a new couple. They will most likely just be side characters.
I just— No. Just no.
One word: Frustrating.
The timelines are switched and flashbacks are interwoven in a way that you’re ultimately confused what is happening and when.
I liked that the Ritual & Hunt was used as a beginning and end. The way the book starts with a scene and we find out that this scene from the beginning is the same / same day as the one at the end. It was a nice full circle moment.
However; this could have been way more effective if these flashbacks weren’t so goddamn confusing.
All in all the book covers - I think - 6 or 7 years (I’m too annoyed to look it up) so time jumps are inevitable.
Which is fine. But when the time / scene changes several times during a single page, without a clear marker (it’s just normal text) it’s hard to know wtf is going on.
Grayson? Fuck. Him.
Her too, but I’m team Vanessa if we’re taking sides cus OH I wanted to smash his face with a frying pan multiple times.
He is downright mean & cruel to everyone at his job. he is condescending, arrogant, and cold. He does things just to spite people. He has no redeeming qualities besides from: he’s good in the sack. Which is just not enough.
He also sleeps with other people. They both do.
Frying 🍳 Pan 🍳!
These two have no communication skills whatsoever.
They clash regularly. They aren’t honest about what they’re doing and can’t even ask ppl what they mean before they make life altering decisions.
Vanessa doesn’t even tell Grayson that she got pregnant and then aborted the pregnancy — cus he has a migraine that day?
I mean to be fair it’s a debilitating migraine but FFS that’s not an excuse.
FRYING 🍳🍳 PAN 🍳🍳!
He keeps on talking about how her p*say is his and ‘this is mine / belongs to me’ and makes her say exactly that — but doesn’t act like it. Again, he sleeps with other people besides her. Carefree. Not a thought in sight.
She does too eventually, however once he smells the guys, with whom she slept, on her, he goes ballistic.
Like wtf is going on. YOU NEED TO TALK PEOPLE.
Vanessa wants a proper relationship with Grayson fairly soon into their affair … but after 3 years she still can’t express her wishes? And keeps on being insecure and confused about their situation / status.
Especially bc he sends her mixed signals ALL THE TIME.
FRYING 🍳🍳🍳 PAN 🍳🍳🍳!
Grayson’s wolf form also graphically f*cks Vanessa in her human form. Meaning he first licks her til she climaxes and then …. mounts her from behind.
She also describes his wolf penis and all.
I— Just— WHAT?!
FRYYYINGGGGG 🍳🍳🍳🍳 PAAANNNNN 🍳🍳🍳🍳!!!
The author said in their newsletter “Cambric Creek’s most toxic power couple” … yeah. that about sums it up. 🙄😒
Let’s circle back to the abortion for a second: Why is that in there?
It happens. It has no influence on the story. If you would cut that segment out it would not change the story in the slightest.
Usually when you set up a thing, you should have a decent pay off. Chekhov’s gun.
I don’t like using those significant tragedies as catalyst for a deeper conversation and ultimately a deeper understanding of each other.
But not even that happens.
I seriously thought, oh there’s a pregnancy. They probably talk about it. Knowing Grayson I’m sure he would go ballistic. Being afraid of true commitment and he also expressed not to want kids — this conversation could have been such a good callback to the time they video called and he mentioned that he likes his nephew but doesn’t want kids on his own.
Like … the foundation was there why wasn’t it explored?
This is the most blatant example … but I had several moments in which I was thoroughly confused why certain things were mentioned bc they had no impact on the story. The Author doesn’t reap what they sowed. And that’s a huge bummer.
The book also doesn’t come to a satisfying conclusion. Their story is very open ended and their volatile relationship is still - or again - on the rocks. It’s a HFN … if you wanna go that far bc they don’t seem very happy. This book has no HEA.
Also, it felt like Vanessa had a big idea what to do at the end … but we don’t get it.
At the end we get told that both characters will return in ‘moon blooded breeding clinic’ (gosh these names 🫣) so I thought maybe this was just book 1 of 2 and the conclusion comes in the next book.
Nope. The next book is about a new couple. They will most likely just be side characters.
I just— No. Just no.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2022
There is an ENDLESS amount of wonderful things I could say about RUN, RUN RABBIT.
As a super fan of C.M Nascosta I loved it.
As a fan of complex dynamics between love interests, I loved it.
As a fan of stories that lean in the direction of dark deliciousness, I loved it.
I love that C.M’s creative energy is pushing her in this direction. This Cambridge Creek After Darkverse is a GENIUS idea, something I didn’t know I needed and now that I’ve had a taste, I’m not sure how I went without it? (I humbly ask for more, more, more please and ty).
I loved that the tone of the story was darker, the stakes were higher, and the complexities were even more adult.
Vanessa is a heroine so far up my alley I can’t even begin to explain it. I am so glad that she exists out there in the world and as a baby in the legal industry myself, I appreciated every single little detail regarding her work. Fear thee not if you don’t care about the legal profession, think of it as the perfect backdrop for the sexiest sex scenes you’ll ever have the pleasure of reading.
“She had been trying to make Grayson Hemming chase her since the first day they met. He was arrogant, imperious, and a world-class prick, and she disliked what her attraction to him said about her.”
If you don’t pick this book up my arrogant and imperious self will think you’re an idiot xx
As a super fan of C.M Nascosta I loved it.
As a fan of complex dynamics between love interests, I loved it.
As a fan of stories that lean in the direction of dark deliciousness, I loved it.
I love that C.M’s creative energy is pushing her in this direction. This Cambridge Creek After Darkverse is a GENIUS idea, something I didn’t know I needed and now that I’ve had a taste, I’m not sure how I went without it? (I humbly ask for more, more, more please and ty).
I loved that the tone of the story was darker, the stakes were higher, and the complexities were even more adult.
Vanessa is a heroine so far up my alley I can’t even begin to explain it. I am so glad that she exists out there in the world and as a baby in the legal industry myself, I appreciated every single little detail regarding her work. Fear thee not if you don’t care about the legal profession, think of it as the perfect backdrop for the sexiest sex scenes you’ll ever have the pleasure of reading.
“She had been trying to make Grayson Hemming chase her since the first day they met. He was arrogant, imperious, and a world-class prick, and she disliked what her attraction to him said about her.”
If you don’t pick this book up my arrogant and imperious self will think you’re an idiot xx
September 28, 2023
*** Book Q & A***
* How did the book make you feel?: This book made me feel SO MANY feelings! The H was maddening, but I totally got his appeal. There was angst, slow burn, and spiciness and it was so good!
* How do you feel about how the story was told?: The plot was perfectly paced. The characters were complex and infuriating. I loved the setting of city lawyers who were also werewolves! This story was just so good.
* What did you think about the main characters?: Grayson was absolutely infuriating but so hot. He was self-absorbed, yet he had a capacity to care about people. Vanessa was driven and pragmatic. I loved that she went after what she wanted. They were so well-written
* Which parts of the book stood out to you?: The slow burn was agonizing, as was the MC’s refusal to admit their feelings to one another. I loved the Lupercalia festival.
* What themes/tropes did you detect in the story?: law office, coworkers, cranky mean boss, shifter romance, workplace romance, slow burn
* What did you think about the ending?: I would’ve loved more grovel from Grayson. It was a HFN. Would’ve loved to see their HEA, but it was still satisfying.
* What is your impression of the author?: I have thoroughly enjoyed everything I’ve read by this author! I enjoyed this darker story. I love the world-building and this author has such a unique voice.
Possible Triggers and Safety: office place harassment, MC’s have relations with other people, short separation, h and H pushing away, abortion, shifted sex, public sex, HFN
* How did the book make you feel?: This book made me feel SO MANY feelings! The H was maddening, but I totally got his appeal. There was angst, slow burn, and spiciness and it was so good!
* How do you feel about how the story was told?: The plot was perfectly paced. The characters were complex and infuriating. I loved the setting of city lawyers who were also werewolves! This story was just so good.
* What did you think about the main characters?: Grayson was absolutely infuriating but so hot. He was self-absorbed, yet he had a capacity to care about people. Vanessa was driven and pragmatic. I loved that she went after what she wanted. They were so well-written
* Which parts of the book stood out to you?: The slow burn was agonizing, as was the MC’s refusal to admit their feelings to one another. I loved the Lupercalia festival.
* What themes/tropes did you detect in the story?: law office, coworkers, cranky mean boss, shifter romance, workplace romance, slow burn
* What did you think about the ending?: I would’ve loved more grovel from Grayson. It was a HFN. Would’ve loved to see their HEA, but it was still satisfying.
* What is your impression of the author?: I have thoroughly enjoyed everything I’ve read by this author! I enjoyed this darker story. I love the world-building and this author has such a unique voice.
Possible Triggers and Safety: office place harassment, MC’s have relations with other people, short separation, h and H pushing away, abortion, shifted sex, public sex, HFN
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 26, 2023
This is the worst book I've read so far, there was no spacing between paragraphs, so everything was mashed up and it was difficult to read like that, and the story was awful.
The Male Main Character was an asshole and mean, he only look for the Female Male Character when he wanted sex during the Full Moon, the rest of the time he was mean and degrading towards her.
The Female Main Character was dumb, naive, she kept thinking she was in control and that she loved being chase and he was chasing after her, when in reality she was the one chasing after him, he couldn't care less about her, only wanted her for sex.
They both played games with each other, didn't communicate, lied, and on top of that, they both had sex with other people throughout the book, they were never in a exclusive, committed relationship. For all the "You belong to me", "I'm yours" talk that they had, they sure enjoyed being with other people and letting the other one know that they had been with someone else. Made no sense.
TW: She had an abortion and never told him about it, just ignored him for a week, and then carried on as they were. He never found out.
This was really awful, if I could give it a 0 I would. Not recommended at all.
The Male Main Character was an asshole and mean, he only look for the Female Male Character when he wanted sex during the Full Moon, the rest of the time he was mean and degrading towards her.
The Female Main Character was dumb, naive, she kept thinking she was in control and that she loved being chase and he was chasing after her, when in reality she was the one chasing after him, he couldn't care less about her, only wanted her for sex.
They both played games with each other, didn't communicate, lied, and on top of that, they both had sex with other people throughout the book, they were never in a exclusive, committed relationship. For all the "You belong to me", "I'm yours" talk that they had, they sure enjoyed being with other people and letting the other one know that they had been with someone else. Made no sense.
TW: She had an abortion and never told him about it, just ignored him for a week, and then carried on as they were. He never found out.
This was really awful, if I could give it a 0 I would. Not recommended at all.
July 26, 2023
I absolutely hated both these characters. And that ending, what a disappointment. These characters never once sit down and communicate they are always just playing games with each other, their relationship seems so toxic. Vanessa is probably the most pathetic female main character I've ever read about constantly needing to be chased. And the male main character, who I don't even fucking remember his name he's that boring, is your typical alpha asshole who has no personality besides that. Both of the characters sleep with others while they're in a relationship??? Even in the last chapter of the book the FMC thinks about being with others even his BROTHER, like whyyy??? I just don't get it. This is the fourth book I've read by this author now and I think I rated every single one of her books that I've read 2 stars with this book being a 1 star... I think this author is just not for me.
Only redeeming thing is maybe the smut?? Like it's decent. It's not too amazing. It's just decent.
Only redeeming thing is maybe the smut?? Like it's decent. It's not too amazing. It's just decent.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2022
Book was confusing. I had no idea the timeline of anything- multiple flashbacks (I think?) I felt my brain was being scrambled half the time when MCs are having a conversation and there are long tangents in between the answers. Did they even like each other? They were both so mean to each other! As convoluted as the story was it seemed to end abruptly-where they staying together? Was he taking her to bora bora? Excited for the next book though!
September 23, 2023
Too much sleeping around for me
The writing was good and Vanessa had potential, but they were terrible for each other. Grayson was a prick that never improved and turned her into a bit of a prick as well. Also, why did they have to keep sleeping with other people? Just whyyyyyyy
Spice: 5/5
Triggers: abortion
The writing was good and Vanessa had potential, but they were terrible for each other. Grayson was a prick that never improved and turned her into a bit of a prick as well. Also, why did they have to keep sleeping with other people? Just whyyyyyyy
Spice: 5/5
Triggers: abortion
July 22, 2023
read Sep 2, 2022 - Sep 2, 2022: 1 star
August 28, 2022
3,5 stars
I'm always perplexed while reading this author's books. While it's hot and interesting i feel like the story is chaos, it goes between now and then and not very clearly, the story feel all over the place and it was annoying. Still i felt the intensity between these two even if i don't understand their "couple".
I'm always perplexed while reading this author's books. While it's hot and interesting i feel like the story is chaos, it goes between now and then and not very clearly, the story feel all over the place and it was annoying. Still i felt the intensity between these two even if i don't understand their "couple".
August 18, 2024
Well. Social climbing lawyer werewolf bags the boss. Apparently werewolves are terrible at communicating but great at “filling a belly with seed until it sloshes around “. Brlpph…sorry threw up in my mouth there a bit. Not much plot to be found here. Keep looking.
Chinese zodiac reading challenge-rabbit
Chinese zodiac reading challenge-rabbit
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