Reviewed by: Sue Eaton
TITLE: Booker’s Bliss
SERIES: Divergent Omegaverse #3
AUTHOR: JP Sayle
PUBLISHER: Self Published
LENGTH: 338 pages
RELEASE DATE: January 24, 2025
BLURB:
One decision was all it took to open a hideous can of worms—and give alpha bear Booker Starling a new perspective on his PA, Frey Abbott. Now all he has to do is get Frey to entrust him with something of vital importance—his heart. But first, Frey has to know Booker is the only alpha who will keep it safe.
Booker has suffered the cruelty of rejection, so for protection, he keeps his big heart hidden under a gruff exterior. He will do anything to protect what he holds dear, even if that includes honoring the code of not poaching someone his brother has slept with. Despite his feelings, Booker keeps his distance—until his father’s sudden retirement renders that option redundant.
Coming home was bad enough. Now his hands are full 24/7 dealing with a flirty fox. He sets himself three rules, but can he stick to them?
An overheard conversation gives Booker the opportunity to see the real Frey, and resisting him proves futile.
The only option is to throw his cautious nature to the wind. Booker wants everything—including a mate. As for his rules?
All bets are off.
REVIEW:
I really enjoyed this book in the series, it was interesting to find out more about Booker and how he came to be adopted by Lane and Derick. This book is about redemption and being good enough despite your past experiences. It is filled with grappling with conflicting emotions, head versus heart and having the courage to act.
Booker is a rugged, alpha bear with a tough exterior, shaped by past rejections and a need to protect his heart. He’s known for his strong sense of responsibility, particularly towards his family and business. Despite his gruff demeanour, Booker has a big heart and a deep capacity for love, which he initially struggles to show due to his personal insecurities and fears. He hides his big heart behind his gruff and growly nature and is unwilling to let anyone except his immediate family see beyond his armour.
Frey is diligent, intelligent, and dedicated to his job. Frey is more open and expressive with his emotions compared to Booker. He has a caring and understanding nature, which makes him a perfect counterbalance to Booker’s roughness. Frey also harbours his own insecurities, but his willingness to communicate and his empathetic approach help him navigate the complexities of their budding relationship. He hides behind his persona as a flirty fox, always willing to engage in a bit of flirting but never letting anyone see that this is just a front and the reality is very different.
Both Booker and Frey fear intimacy and relationships, both thinking they aren’t good enough and that their past has shaped them to think that they could never find a relationship that would accept them for who they are.
Booker and Frey overcome their initial fears through a combination of open communication, mutual support, and gradual trust-building. They start by sharing their feelings and fears with each other. These honest conversations allow them to understand each other’s past and the reasons behind their insecurities. By opening up, they create a foundation of trust. Booker begins to let down his guard and allows Frey to see his vulnerable side. Frey, in turn, supports Booker through his emotional struggles and demonstrates unwavering loyalty. As they spend more time together, they work through misunderstandings and conflicts with patience and empathy. They learn to appreciate each other’s perspectives and find common ground. They create a supportive environment where they can be themselves without fear of judgment. This safe space allows their relationship to flourish and grow.
I really love how JP inter-twines the story arc within the different books, as they take place on the same timeline, you get a totally different perspective on events, it is not repetitive or boring and it gives a fresh spin on something you think you already know which is fantastic.
Booker and Frey are complex and interesting characters and I enjoyed their trials and tribulations to get to their happy ever after.
RATING: 
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