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Bold Hearts #1
Ours to Keep
All Primrose King has ever wanted was to make her father proud. A daughter born to the pack alpha, she’s always known she would be mated to an alpha heir of her father’s choosing, but when he announces that she’s to be mated to Trent Walker, the heir to a pack rumored to hunt humans for sport, she’s devastated. When hidden truths are exposed, Primrose flees to the one place she knows they’ll never find her…enemy territory.
Humans are turning up dead on Brennan land, humans that’ve been brutally murdered by wolves. Jax, Finn, and Felix are in a race against time as they hunt for the wolves responsible. The council is demanding answers, and if they can’t deliver them soon, Jax Brennan could lose everything his father and grandfather have worked for. When they discover a lone wolf living on the run in Brennan territory, they’re convinced that she’s the one who’s been leaving the trail of human bodies, except there’s one small problem....she’s their star-kissed mate.
Ours to Keep is a slow-burn reverse harm novel, where the heroine doesn't have to choose just one mate. It also ends on a cliffhanger but will ultimately have a HEA.
Humans are turning up dead on Brennan land, humans that’ve been brutally murdered by wolves. Jax, Finn, and Felix are in a race against time as they hunt for the wolves responsible. The council is demanding answers, and if they can’t deliver them soon, Jax Brennan could lose everything his father and grandfather have worked for. When they discover a lone wolf living on the run in Brennan territory, they’re convinced that she’s the one who’s been leaving the trail of human bodies, except there’s one small problem....she’s their star-kissed mate.
Ours to Keep is a slow-burn reverse harm novel, where the heroine doesn't have to choose just one mate. It also ends on a cliffhanger but will ultimately have a HEA.
219 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 28, 2021
About the author
Willow Hayes
6 books86 followersI'm a Washington State native where I live in a tiny house with my kiddo, surrounded by all that is green.
On the rare occasion that I'm not writing...
I can be found working on my green thumb, which, considering I used to kill all the the green things, is an improvement.
Behind my camera capturing memories with my kiddo at the beach, on a trail, or just because.
Or holding my bow, pretending to be Katniss, which clearly I'm not.
Proud Hufflepuff
Self professed nerd (and proud of it)
Fiery Irish lass
And reverse harem author
On the rare occasion that I'm not writing...
I can be found working on my green thumb, which, considering I used to kill all the the green things, is an improvement.
Behind my camera capturing memories with my kiddo at the beach, on a trail, or just because.
Or holding my bow, pretending to be Katniss, which clearly I'm not.
Proud Hufflepuff
Self professed nerd (and proud of it)
Fiery Irish lass
And reverse harem author
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
November 30, 2021
Willow Hayes wrote an amazing series already and when I saw her name on this cover I knew I had to read it. Although I've always been more of a vampire girl, I'm discovering the allure of werewolves and the amazing stories they have to tell. So, when I saw that this book was gonna focus on the werewolves, I was even more excited to get started. I'm therefore very thankful that I've gotten an arc for this book.
The beginning of the book went quite fast. We didn't really get the time to connect with the characters, however, quite soon we discovered why. This relationship was not gonna be her happily ever after and it was for sure not gonna be the one we were gonna be rooting for. As soon as our werewolf was in the right part of the world to meet the ones she had to meet, Hayes did what she does best: Building her world and relationships and mixing it with politics.
What I loved about this book is that it works with fated mates, although it's very rare, but doesn't make that mean that instantly everything in a relationship works. Hayes still gives us time to get to know the characters, to form a connection with them and to see the blossoming relationship between the characters grow into what it can be. I like that, especially because the situation they're in is complicated.
That's where the politics gets involved. I think werewolf politics is the most interesting politics you can get in urban fantasy. There are so many unwritten and written rules, there are territories and there always are wolves who lose themselves to their instincts and forget the thinking part of their actions. In this book we get an idea of what is waiting for us in the next book. I'm both excited and terrified to see where it will all lead!
The beginning of the book went quite fast. We didn't really get the time to connect with the characters, however, quite soon we discovered why. This relationship was not gonna be her happily ever after and it was for sure not gonna be the one we were gonna be rooting for. As soon as our werewolf was in the right part of the world to meet the ones she had to meet, Hayes did what she does best: Building her world and relationships and mixing it with politics.
What I loved about this book is that it works with fated mates, although it's very rare, but doesn't make that mean that instantly everything in a relationship works. Hayes still gives us time to get to know the characters, to form a connection with them and to see the blossoming relationship between the characters grow into what it can be. I like that, especially because the situation they're in is complicated.
That's where the politics gets involved. I think werewolf politics is the most interesting politics you can get in urban fantasy. There are so many unwritten and written rules, there are territories and there always are wolves who lose themselves to their instincts and forget the thinking part of their actions. In this book we get an idea of what is waiting for us in the next book. I'm both excited and terrified to see where it will all lead!
November 24, 2021
Great start to a new series. Poppy is ever so sweet, loving and innocent which does make her slightly naive but that's why we adore her. Recently I figured out the definition for; cinnamon roll. A person perceived as good, gentle and kind. Often a fictional character who undergoes emotional suffering - That is our poppy 🥰 ... she runs away from home after witnessing something she shouldn't. Whilst on the run, she meets our hot, possessive amazing guys. I liked the little twists and turns, things I genuinely didn't see coming! Parts really made my heart full and I had a goofy grin on my face 🥰 there is a mystery on the Brennan pack land, young human girls being murdered. Does our sweet, naive little poppy have anything to do with this?! I guess you'll have to read it to find out 😉💖
If you are looking for a badass FMC then this isn't that story. Although her best friend Ava is certainly that 😅 love her! ... Poppy is a badass in her own little way, running away from home was scary and very badass for her which must have taken alot of courage! 🙌🏻💖
If you are looking for a badass FMC then this isn't that story. Although her best friend Ava is certainly that 😅 love her! ... Poppy is a badass in her own little way, running away from home was scary and very badass for her which must have taken alot of courage! 🙌🏻💖
April 5, 2022
Loved this. Can't wait for book 2
November 28, 2021
This was my first time reading Willow Hayes and I am beyond excited to have stumbled across her! Ours to Keep was utterly riveting and is a definite must read! Right from the start it pulls you right into the world of the Bold Hearts series and doesn’t hold back.
Hayes is absolutely amazing at building a new world to immerse yourself in and a master at developing characters so beautifully written you can’t help but fall in love with them. Even the side characters like Ava and Declan and his guys—heres hoping for a side story coming their way! The connections Hayes creates with her characters as the story unveils itself, slowly weaving a web so intricate you don’t even realize they’ve all wound themselves tightly around your heart, is astonishing. I love the idea of star kissed mates and can’t wait to find out more in the books to come!
Ours to Keep introduces us to Primrose, our beautiful heroine, who starts out shy and obedient under the tightly held reins of her father—her pack’s Alpha. Stuck in a very patriarchal pack, she’s raised to believe her only role is to be by the side of her soon to be mated Alpha’s side. Blinded to what’s really going on in her pack, she gladly gives her heart to the man her father chooses for her. However, discoveries are soon made that rock her world, forcing her to run and find refuge somewhere far away in hopes that she’s never found.
Over time we discover she has created a new place for herself, and transformed into a much stronger and confident Poppy—a character you can’t help but fall absolutely fall in love with as she’s so genuine and resilient, having not let her past break her. In this new life, hidden amidst another pack far away from her past ties, she has formed her own “pack” amongst her human friends and has finally found a place to call home. However secrets are hard to keep and the Brennan pack soon discover Poppy and needless to say sparks immediately fly.
The chemistry and connections that slowly start to form between Poppy and the three hot as hell shifters that discover her hiding out in a bar on their land, Felix, Fin and their alpha Jax, takes us on a journey of new discoveries and reveals treacheries you don’t want to miss. I love how they all fit together so perfectly and how each of her guys provides something different to Poppy and how devoted they all are to protecting her beyond all costs.
“You. Are. Mine. And I will die before I let anything happen to you…”
“He’ll have more than just Jax standing between that bastard and you; Felix and I will be right there beside him. No one is going to hurt you. No one.”
And yes, while this story does leave us on a bit of a cliffhanger, it’s totally worth it and only leaves you wanting more of Poppy and her guys. Overall, if you’re a fan of slow burn, RH, fated mate stories then I highly recommend this book!
Hayes is absolutely amazing at building a new world to immerse yourself in and a master at developing characters so beautifully written you can’t help but fall in love with them. Even the side characters like Ava and Declan and his guys—heres hoping for a side story coming their way! The connections Hayes creates with her characters as the story unveils itself, slowly weaving a web so intricate you don’t even realize they’ve all wound themselves tightly around your heart, is astonishing. I love the idea of star kissed mates and can’t wait to find out more in the books to come!
Ours to Keep introduces us to Primrose, our beautiful heroine, who starts out shy and obedient under the tightly held reins of her father—her pack’s Alpha. Stuck in a very patriarchal pack, she’s raised to believe her only role is to be by the side of her soon to be mated Alpha’s side. Blinded to what’s really going on in her pack, she gladly gives her heart to the man her father chooses for her. However, discoveries are soon made that rock her world, forcing her to run and find refuge somewhere far away in hopes that she’s never found.
Over time we discover she has created a new place for herself, and transformed into a much stronger and confident Poppy—a character you can’t help but fall absolutely fall in love with as she’s so genuine and resilient, having not let her past break her. In this new life, hidden amidst another pack far away from her past ties, she has formed her own “pack” amongst her human friends and has finally found a place to call home. However secrets are hard to keep and the Brennan pack soon discover Poppy and needless to say sparks immediately fly.
The chemistry and connections that slowly start to form between Poppy and the three hot as hell shifters that discover her hiding out in a bar on their land, Felix, Fin and their alpha Jax, takes us on a journey of new discoveries and reveals treacheries you don’t want to miss. I love how they all fit together so perfectly and how each of her guys provides something different to Poppy and how devoted they all are to protecting her beyond all costs.
“You. Are. Mine. And I will die before I let anything happen to you…”
“He’ll have more than just Jax standing between that bastard and you; Felix and I will be right there beside him. No one is going to hurt you. No one.”
And yes, while this story does leave us on a bit of a cliffhanger, it’s totally worth it and only leaves you wanting more of Poppy and her guys. Overall, if you’re a fan of slow burn, RH, fated mate stories then I highly recommend this book!
November 24, 2021
✨🐺What an EXCITING start to this new series!!!!
I absolutely couldn't put this book down from the moment I picked it up! Yowza, what a brilliant ride filled with A L L the feels. There's definitely a few dark and twisty moments, but tempered with resilience, strength, courage, heart, family....and how that can be defined in many different ways 😉. This read does a great job with slowly revealing character development to get our immediate interest and make us want to know more!! It did a wonderful job of laying the groundwork of this rich world filled with characters you'll cheer for, laugh with, and some you'll want to at the very least chuck eggs at. I for one can't wait for book two when I'm sure even more excitement will happen. I loved every moment of this story. I'm a huge fan of this author, and thrilled to discover a new gem among her work 💖. Take the journey and enjoy!
I absolutely couldn't put this book down from the moment I picked it up! Yowza, what a brilliant ride filled with A L L the feels. There's definitely a few dark and twisty moments, but tempered with resilience, strength, courage, heart, family....and how that can be defined in many different ways 😉. This read does a great job with slowly revealing character development to get our immediate interest and make us want to know more!! It did a wonderful job of laying the groundwork of this rich world filled with characters you'll cheer for, laugh with, and some you'll want to at the very least chuck eggs at. I for one can't wait for book two when I'm sure even more excitement will happen. I loved every moment of this story. I'm a huge fan of this author, and thrilled to discover a new gem among her work 💖. Take the journey and enjoy!
January 3, 2022
Enjoyed
Four years ago, Poppy (alias Primrose) fled her father and her future mate family. Raised to be submissive perfect housewife, Poppy witnessed something that made her understand how twisted her father and her future husband were. She seeked refuge in a friend of her grandmother and lived under the radar of the local pack keeping a big secret, until one night...
At the beginning of the book, Poppy was so naive and foolish that it was apalling🙄 but after fleeing she had to grown up and stood for herself, and she was a quite loveable and genuine person.
I loved particularly the character of Atticus, the grandfather of Jax. He was hilarious and so kind with Poppy😊
The cliffhanger at the end wasn't unbearable (good thing, so I don't have to throw my Kindle out the window😅) and I really look forward reading the next book!
Four years ago, Poppy (alias Primrose) fled her father and her future mate family. Raised to be submissive perfect housewife, Poppy witnessed something that made her understand how twisted her father and her future husband were. She seeked refuge in a friend of her grandmother and lived under the radar of the local pack keeping a big secret, until one night...
At the beginning of the book, Poppy was so naive and foolish that it was apalling🙄 but after fleeing she had to grown up and stood for herself, and she was a quite loveable and genuine person.
I loved particularly the character of Atticus, the grandfather of Jax. He was hilarious and so kind with Poppy😊
The cliffhanger at the end wasn't unbearable (good thing, so I don't have to throw my Kindle out the window😅) and I really look forward reading the next book!
November 24, 2021
Great start to the series. Kept me turning the pages to the point I finished it in one day.
Poppy is a wolf shifter with a secret. Trying to fly under the radar but runs into a speed bump - or three that go by Finn, Felix, and Jax. Hard to concentrate when these hotties are in the room. Even more so when they learn they’re star-kissed mates with her.
The last is lurking over her shoulder and you don’t get a peek til the end what horrible thing occurred but it will lead into the next book. Expect a cliffy.
* I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
Poppy is a wolf shifter with a secret. Trying to fly under the radar but runs into a speed bump - or three that go by Finn, Felix, and Jax. Hard to concentrate when these hotties are in the room. Even more so when they learn they’re star-kissed mates with her.
The last is lurking over her shoulder and you don’t get a peek til the end what horrible thing occurred but it will lead into the next book. Expect a cliffy.
* I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
November 24, 2021
This is a great start to the series. Primrose was always told that her duty in life was be an alphas mate but when her father mates her to an alphas son to a pack she has heard terrible things about she thinks it must be a mistake. She is attracted to him and when they mate she learns a terrible secret. Now on the run in Brennan pack territory where the Brennan alpha finds her she is afraid to go back. The think she may be the one killing people in their territory until they learn she is the star kissed mate. This book has things come to light and will definitely leave you wanting more.
December 13, 2021
I was excited to read this after reading half the book in the Princess and the Alphaholes anthology! It was a cute and quick read.
I think there were parts that ended a little too abruptly for me, and moved a little faster than i would’ve liked. I didn’t really feel like i got to know the characters, and i would’ve preferred a little more sexual tension at times.
No OW drama except for an ex FWB who gets jealous, but the H shuts her down. No MM.
I’ll tune into book 2 to see where this is going, I hope it’s just a bit more fleshed out at times!
I think there were parts that ended a little too abruptly for me, and moved a little faster than i would’ve liked. I didn’t really feel like i got to know the characters, and i would’ve preferred a little more sexual tension at times.
No OW drama except for an ex FWB who gets jealous, but the H shuts her down. No MM.
I’ll tune into book 2 to see where this is going, I hope it’s just a bit more fleshed out at times!
November 28, 2021
3,5 ish
Not bad not bad, i did not know what to expect but i liked it more than i thought i would. The heroin Primrose King aka Poppy is very shy and more reserved girl. Not the kicking ass girl but the kinder sweet one. And she also has a daughter which i loved, she was so cute.
Jax, Finn & Felix is the star kissed mates to Poppy, i liked the three of em, how protective they where for Poppy. I love me some overprotective guys. And fuck Trent
I am looking forward to the next book
Not bad not bad, i did not know what to expect but i liked it more than i thought i would. The heroin Primrose King aka Poppy is very shy and more reserved girl. Not the kicking ass girl but the kinder sweet one. And she also has a daughter which i loved, she was so cute.
Jax, Finn & Felix is the star kissed mates to Poppy, i liked the three of em, how protective they where for Poppy. I love me some overprotective guys. And fuck Trent
I am looking forward to the next book
November 21, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. Poppy is running from her mate after discovering a terrible secret. She ends up meeting three males while on the run. Her life is never simple and many enemies and more secrets come to life.
December 8, 2021
Poppy is sent to be mated with the alpha's son of a pack that doesn't have a good reputation. She learns something truly awful, and runs away only to be found by the Brennan pack.
I adored Poppy's character. She's not necessarily your strong female type, and she's a little naieve, but it adds to her character and makes her even more likable. There are so many twists and turns throughout the book that you can't really guess what will happen next, or where the story will take you. I love the authors writing and their ability to tell a story that grips you from start to finish.
The author provided a copy. This is my honest review.
I adored Poppy's character. She's not necessarily your strong female type, and she's a little naieve, but it adds to her character and makes her even more likable. There are so many twists and turns throughout the book that you can't really guess what will happen next, or where the story will take you. I love the authors writing and their ability to tell a story that grips you from start to finish.
The author provided a copy. This is my honest review.
November 29, 2021
A fantastic start to what promises to be a very exciting series!!
Poppy has been on the run for four years from her original pack after witnessing something terrible. Now she is living and working on another pack's territory without their knowledge, which was fine until one day the Alpha and his brothers walk into her bar and sniff her out. Finn, Felix, and Jax are cops that are investigating the bizarre cases of dead humans that seem to be piling up on their turf. All of a sudden, they come across this mysterious lone wolf and they start to wonder if she might be behind it or at least know who is. As they go to get answers they find that things aren't so black in white in this department, turns out they are star-kissed mates and they have no plans to let her leave. Now they have to deal with the repercussions and not only that but Poppy's past seems to be catching up to her. Can Poppy get this mess sorted out before she ends up as another body?
Willow Hayes has weaved a story together of pure magic. I absolutely got lost in this book and I didn't want to put it down even for a moment! The world-building and pack dynamics are all there laid out for you to read and picture all the details so you can follow along perfectly. The details make you see things so clearly and so you do get a full picture in your head of what is going on every minute. The characters all have their own personalities and individual traits. Your gut steers you to the good guys and you will never waver in your beliefs in this book.
A fantastic start to a new series that I can not wait to read more about! The perfect book for all PNR RH fans that deal with shifters, fated mates, and morally good vs bad characters.
Poppy has been on the run for four years from her original pack after witnessing something terrible. Now she is living and working on another pack's territory without their knowledge, which was fine until one day the Alpha and his brothers walk into her bar and sniff her out. Finn, Felix, and Jax are cops that are investigating the bizarre cases of dead humans that seem to be piling up on their turf. All of a sudden, they come across this mysterious lone wolf and they start to wonder if she might be behind it or at least know who is. As they go to get answers they find that things aren't so black in white in this department, turns out they are star-kissed mates and they have no plans to let her leave. Now they have to deal with the repercussions and not only that but Poppy's past seems to be catching up to her. Can Poppy get this mess sorted out before she ends up as another body?
Willow Hayes has weaved a story together of pure magic. I absolutely got lost in this book and I didn't want to put it down even for a moment! The world-building and pack dynamics are all there laid out for you to read and picture all the details so you can follow along perfectly. The details make you see things so clearly and so you do get a full picture in your head of what is going on every minute. The characters all have their own personalities and individual traits. Your gut steers you to the good guys and you will never waver in your beliefs in this book.
A fantastic start to a new series that I can not wait to read more about! The perfect book for all PNR RH fans that deal with shifters, fated mates, and morally good vs bad characters.
September 20, 2022
2.5/3 stars
I was really into this until around the 60% mark.
The starkissed mates thing was introduced so abruptly and with so little reaction from the MCs. Especially considering the fact that multiple mates aren't common in this AU, the easy way Poppy and the guys accepted this revelation was weird.
Secondly, I expected the FMC to think about her child and be more protective than she was. For me, one of the best things about reading romances with children, is that the FMC's tend to be more careful about letting the men into their hearts. I didn't get much of that here.
I was really into this until around the 60% mark.
The starkissed mates thing was introduced so abruptly and with so little reaction from the MCs. Especially considering the fact that multiple mates aren't common in this AU, the easy way Poppy and the guys accepted this revelation was weird.
Secondly, I expected the FMC to think about her child and be more protective than she was. For me, one of the best things about reading romances with children, is that the FMC's tend to be more careful about letting the men into their hearts. I didn't get much of that here.
November 26, 2021
Willow Hayes is a new to me author and after reading Ours to Keep, her first book in the Bold Hearts series I can say I'm a fan. This is a multiple perspective reverse harems that is filled with intrigue, sweet romance, and bonds that are stronger than family. I ate it up.
Primrose King was raised by her alpha father to be the perfect alpha mate, she accepts her role and the mate her father matches her with but when Prim makes a shocking discovery she flees. She whines up in the Brennan pack's territory but then alphas discover her just as bodies are turning things and things get really complicated when they discover she's their mate.
I love the characters, Prim is an artist who has an open heart and is the nicest person but she has gone through a lot. First, she was raised by a sexist father who brainwashed her into thinking a man can control her every move, him included, and he even matched her with a mate as a business deal. She's obviously mistreated emotionally but Prim was still the respectful daughter but after she flees Prim stands on her own and takes control of her life. She still has some learned thinking that she has to work on changing but she's strong and finally has a support system.
Her support system comes in the form of Ava, her best friend, and Millie, her Nonna's friend. Both women care, love, and support Prim. Ava is bubbly but tough, a smart-alec who is sassy, caring, and funny, I love her, she tries her best to get Prim to follow her dreams and takes her out of her comfort zone. Then there is Millie who is like a mother to Prim, she took her in, treated her like family, and loved her with her whole heart. These two people are something Prim didn't have at home, which is care and unconditional love.
The guys make me swoon, Jax his brother Felix, and their cousin Finn are good men who treat people fairly and are totally enamored with Prim. Jax is the Brennan pack's alpha so he's responsible and a little intense. Finn is a cop who is broody and a little serious, I can't wait to see him open up more. Then there is Felix who's a bar owner and he is the playful, light-hearted one of the bunch. The guys may have had some suspicions at first about Prim but they didn't let that blind them to who she is. Plus they have an adorable grandfather, Pops (Atticus) who is pure entertainment.
As for the plot, seriously it's one of my favorite storylines, Hayes knows how to write a plot that can keep me hooked. There were a few surprises but mostly it was the intrigue. Prim witnesses something and it isn't revealed until the end what it was. Things were hinted at, mentioned but never explained until the very end and at that point I was running through so many scenarios, trying to figure out what she saw, I loved it, it kept me invested in the story. Not to mention the whole mysterious council, who if we are being honest, is never the good guys, but that's just my opinion. Then add in the murder mystery, bodies have been popping up all over Brennan's territory and trying to figure out the who, why, and how, all of it kept me superglued to the story.
Some major stuff went down in Ours to Keep, not to mention that cliffhanger at the end has me looking forward to the next book, Ours to Protect, sooner rather than later.
Primrose King was raised by her alpha father to be the perfect alpha mate, she accepts her role and the mate her father matches her with but when Prim makes a shocking discovery she flees. She whines up in the Brennan pack's territory but then alphas discover her just as bodies are turning things and things get really complicated when they discover she's their mate.
I love the characters, Prim is an artist who has an open heart and is the nicest person but she has gone through a lot. First, she was raised by a sexist father who brainwashed her into thinking a man can control her every move, him included, and he even matched her with a mate as a business deal. She's obviously mistreated emotionally but Prim was still the respectful daughter but after she flees Prim stands on her own and takes control of her life. She still has some learned thinking that she has to work on changing but she's strong and finally has a support system.
Her support system comes in the form of Ava, her best friend, and Millie, her Nonna's friend. Both women care, love, and support Prim. Ava is bubbly but tough, a smart-alec who is sassy, caring, and funny, I love her, she tries her best to get Prim to follow her dreams and takes her out of her comfort zone. Then there is Millie who is like a mother to Prim, she took her in, treated her like family, and loved her with her whole heart. These two people are something Prim didn't have at home, which is care and unconditional love.
The guys make me swoon, Jax his brother Felix, and their cousin Finn are good men who treat people fairly and are totally enamored with Prim. Jax is the Brennan pack's alpha so he's responsible and a little intense. Finn is a cop who is broody and a little serious, I can't wait to see him open up more. Then there is Felix who's a bar owner and he is the playful, light-hearted one of the bunch. The guys may have had some suspicions at first about Prim but they didn't let that blind them to who she is. Plus they have an adorable grandfather, Pops (Atticus) who is pure entertainment.
As for the plot, seriously it's one of my favorite storylines, Hayes knows how to write a plot that can keep me hooked. There were a few surprises but mostly it was the intrigue. Prim witnesses something and it isn't revealed until the end what it was. Things were hinted at, mentioned but never explained until the very end and at that point I was running through so many scenarios, trying to figure out what she saw, I loved it, it kept me invested in the story. Not to mention the whole mysterious council, who if we are being honest, is never the good guys, but that's just my opinion. Then add in the murder mystery, bodies have been popping up all over Brennan's territory and trying to figure out the who, why, and how, all of it kept me superglued to the story.
Some major stuff went down in Ours to Keep, not to mention that cliffhanger at the end has me looking forward to the next book, Ours to Protect, sooner rather than later.
December 10, 2021
Ours to Keep is the first book in Willow Hayes’s new series – Bold Hearts. This book really takes readers down the rabbit hole with the question – what happened?
The way that this book starts, it sounds like a mixed bag for the main character, Primrose. She’s heard bad things about the Walker pack, but her father has determined that she will be mated to the Walker Alpha’s son. But something happens to make her go on the run, but for how long can she run before her past and the secret that she’s keeping locked inside catch up with her?
Ours to Keep is an engaging novel overall. The way that the story is written, with the shock moment for Primrose, and then the shift in time and character name really had me page-turning to find out what happens next. I was especially focused on the change in text so that I’d know that a shift in time was coming.
Part of me really wanted to get annoyed with Ava’s brashness and how the men just let it slide, but she grows on me so I can’t really complain too much. Primrose/Poppy comes off as a weak character, but it’s because of how she was raised by her father. Some of the pieces of the story come together pretty easily, but the reason why Primrose/Poppy is on the run takes longer to be revealed. But the reveal is pretty worth the wait.
The pace of this story is good, and while there really aren’t any heating up the pages steamy, there are sparks between the characters and not just Poppy and her men either! I love it. I’m rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
The way that this book starts, it sounds like a mixed bag for the main character, Primrose. She’s heard bad things about the Walker pack, but her father has determined that she will be mated to the Walker Alpha’s son. But something happens to make her go on the run, but for how long can she run before her past and the secret that she’s keeping locked inside catch up with her?
Ours to Keep is an engaging novel overall. The way that the story is written, with the shock moment for Primrose, and then the shift in time and character name really had me page-turning to find out what happens next. I was especially focused on the change in text so that I’d know that a shift in time was coming.
Part of me really wanted to get annoyed with Ava’s brashness and how the men just let it slide, but she grows on me so I can’t really complain too much. Primrose/Poppy comes off as a weak character, but it’s because of how she was raised by her father. Some of the pieces of the story come together pretty easily, but the reason why Primrose/Poppy is on the run takes longer to be revealed. But the reveal is pretty worth the wait.
The pace of this story is good, and while there really aren’t any heating up the pages steamy, there are sparks between the characters and not just Poppy and her men either! I love it. I’m rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
November 26, 2021
Willow has created a unique and intriguing plot for this beautiful world filled with darkness threating to tear the very fabric of it all to pieces. There are so many layers to this world that give it such a depth that it becomes more than just words on a page it has enough to become real.
Poppy is not your typical badass FMC who goes and kicks ass and leaves a trail of blood, instead she is a shining light who draws everyone in and inspires a sense of loyalty. She has been controlled and witnessed the darkness of her world and has done all she can to protect those she loves. Now she's faced with the impossible task of opening herself up to trust and even love.
Fin, Jax and Felix are the Alpha and leaders of the Brennan pack and heavy is the head that wears the crown. These guys are nothing but honourable if nothing a little over bearing at times and will do anything to protect Poppy.
I love the instant connection between Poppy and they guys when their eyes meet and how their relationships begin to develop however nothing good ever lasts. As they become closer layers of secrets about their world are torn to pieces. It becomes difficult to know who to trust when the people in that position of power may not be worthy of the loyalty they try and inspire.
When the past and present collid it leaves only way, forward, with hope and a prayer that everything will be OK
Poppy is not your typical badass FMC who goes and kicks ass and leaves a trail of blood, instead she is a shining light who draws everyone in and inspires a sense of loyalty. She has been controlled and witnessed the darkness of her world and has done all she can to protect those she loves. Now she's faced with the impossible task of opening herself up to trust and even love.
Fin, Jax and Felix are the Alpha and leaders of the Brennan pack and heavy is the head that wears the crown. These guys are nothing but honourable if nothing a little over bearing at times and will do anything to protect Poppy.
I love the instant connection between Poppy and they guys when their eyes meet and how their relationships begin to develop however nothing good ever lasts. As they become closer layers of secrets about their world are torn to pieces. It becomes difficult to know who to trust when the people in that position of power may not be worthy of the loyalty they try and inspire.
When the past and present collid it leaves only way, forward, with hope and a prayer that everything will be OK
November 30, 2021
Great start to a new shifter series!
Primrose is basically raised to be used as a pawn and married off by her father to another wolf pack. At the beginning you see her relationship with Trent and it seems like a good pairing even though she knows his pack and his dad, the alpha, are no good. One day, Prim stumbles upon something she shouldn’t have seen and the usually shy, obedient girl escapes to another pack’s lands.
She lives and works there unnoticed for four years, going by Poppy, and making her own pack with her human friends. That is until three hot wolf shifters show up at the bar she works at looking for her slimy boss. They are shocked she is a wolf they don’t know, living and working on their land. They think she is a lone wolf, and may be responsible for recent murders on their lands. They soon realize she is their star-kissed mate and vow to protect her from whatever she has been running from. The rest of the story is a wild ride of secrets, murder and mysteries. This is a slow burn for sure, so I’m looking forward to more steam and romance in the next book!
Primrose is basically raised to be used as a pawn and married off by her father to another wolf pack. At the beginning you see her relationship with Trent and it seems like a good pairing even though she knows his pack and his dad, the alpha, are no good. One day, Prim stumbles upon something she shouldn’t have seen and the usually shy, obedient girl escapes to another pack’s lands.
She lives and works there unnoticed for four years, going by Poppy, and making her own pack with her human friends. That is until three hot wolf shifters show up at the bar she works at looking for her slimy boss. They are shocked she is a wolf they don’t know, living and working on their land. They think she is a lone wolf, and may be responsible for recent murders on their lands. They soon realize she is their star-kissed mate and vow to protect her from whatever she has been running from. The rest of the story is a wild ride of secrets, murder and mysteries. This is a slow burn for sure, so I’m looking forward to more steam and romance in the next book!
November 23, 2021
I don’t even know where to begin!! Poppy did a everything she’s sweet, innocent, loving and she’s a fighter. Jax, Finn & Felix are three sexy AF alphas who the moment they lock eyes with Poppy know
Something is different. They four are drawn to one another like a moth to a flame. Their attraction and feelings for me another bleeds through the pages. I love how the author didn’t beat around the bush when it came to the guys sitting down with Poppy and letting her know what’s up. This was a fantastic start to a new series and with all the ups and down, the mystery and intrigue throw in the fact that danger lurks in the darkness and Poppy’s past catches up to her and you have one amazing story. I cannot wait to see where the next book takes us because I have a feeling we have barely scratched the surface. Also I think it deserves mentioning that I FLOVE Ava who is Poppy’s bff and she is straight goals and has absolutely no filter! A girl after my own heart.
Something is different. They four are drawn to one another like a moth to a flame. Their attraction and feelings for me another bleeds through the pages. I love how the author didn’t beat around the bush when it came to the guys sitting down with Poppy and letting her know what’s up. This was a fantastic start to a new series and with all the ups and down, the mystery and intrigue throw in the fact that danger lurks in the darkness and Poppy’s past catches up to her and you have one amazing story. I cannot wait to see where the next book takes us because I have a feeling we have barely scratched the surface. Also I think it deserves mentioning that I FLOVE Ava who is Poppy’s bff and she is straight goals and has absolutely no filter! A girl after my own heart.
November 25, 2021
Our To Keep is a Reverse Harem, fated mates romance and is a great start to the Bold Hearts series.
Poppy is a wolf Shifter with a secret and she has been on the run and in hiding for the last four years in another packs land without their knowledge. That is until the pack alpha turns up where she works and her past starts catching up with her.
I loved Poppy, she's so sweet and timid but also fiercely protective of those she loves.
Then there are the guys, Jax, Finn and Felix. They are the alpha family and as soon as they walk into the bar where Poppy works they know she doesn't belong and immediately believe that she's behind the terrible things that have been happening recently.
This book is slow burn and focuses mostly on getting to know the characters and their backstories, and finding out just what has Poppy so scared and what she's running from.
I can't wait for the next book to see what happens next with Poppy and her men.
Poppy is a wolf Shifter with a secret and she has been on the run and in hiding for the last four years in another packs land without their knowledge. That is until the pack alpha turns up where she works and her past starts catching up with her.
I loved Poppy, she's so sweet and timid but also fiercely protective of those she loves.
Then there are the guys, Jax, Finn and Felix. They are the alpha family and as soon as they walk into the bar where Poppy works they know she doesn't belong and immediately believe that she's behind the terrible things that have been happening recently.
This book is slow burn and focuses mostly on getting to know the characters and their backstories, and finding out just what has Poppy so scared and what she's running from.
I can't wait for the next book to see what happens next with Poppy and her men.
November 27, 2021
I started this short story as part of Princess and Her Alphaholes Anthology (I believe) and I'm so exited to finally get the full length version of Book 1! Poppy is a super sweet wolf raised by a sadistic father and running from a past mate who is no different from her Dad. She finds herself hiding out in Brennan wolf territory and is able to fly under the radar until she gets seen by the Alpha, his brother and cousin. All of them draw Poppy in but she's got a lot to lose and she's not willing to chance it. This book is focused on the three men attempting to get Poppy to stay under their protection and getting to know her. It's a slow burn but I think in the future we'll see payoff for that (with three men, there's gotta be!). I enjoyed Poppy's dynamic with the guys, I loved Ava and Millie and I thought Poppy was a great FMC but I am hoping she comes into her own a little more in the upcoming books. She's got a lot to fight for!
November 28, 2021
Shifters, star kissed mates and a murderer(s) on the prowl - this boom has it all. Poppy flees an impossible situation but also spends four years hiding on another pack’s land (without their knowledge). As more dead bodies turn up, she is discovered living on Brennan land. Jax, Felix and Finn keep her secret and offer her their protection. Poppy is hiding her own secrets and eventually they come to light.
Poppy is the sweetest! She doesn’t deserve the things that happened to her before she ran away. Poppy has spent four years living with a massive amount of guilt over something she did not stop. She’s a great mother to June and I adored her character.
Jax, Felix and Finn are your typical alpha males. They feel an immediate need to protect Poppy. After they figure out Poppy is their star kissed mate, the need intensifies. I am looking forward to getting more character development from each of them.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️, I am very invested in Poppy’s story. I really want to read her HEA. This book was super slow burn, but the chemistry between the characters is fire. I’m looking forward to the next book!
Poppy is the sweetest! She doesn’t deserve the things that happened to her before she ran away. Poppy has spent four years living with a massive amount of guilt over something she did not stop. She’s a great mother to June and I adored her character.
Jax, Felix and Finn are your typical alpha males. They feel an immediate need to protect Poppy. After they figure out Poppy is their star kissed mate, the need intensifies. I am looking forward to getting more character development from each of them.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️, I am very invested in Poppy’s story. I really want to read her HEA. This book was super slow burn, but the chemistry between the characters is fire. I’m looking forward to the next book!
November 28, 2021
I really enjoyed this book! I hadn't read anything from Willow before but the cover and description drew me in. We meet Primrose when she's the perfect daughter and a future alpha's mate. She knows what's expected of her and is happy to go forward with things. She does step one of the mating process before she finds out something that makes her run.
The story is a slow builder with a time jump in there. We get Prim/Poppy's backstory in before we meet any of the guys. Once we do though it's on and the buildup and tension are fab. There's a lot of angst in here as we as the reader don't find things out until later in the book, but it just makes you devour it.
The FMC!
Poppy has been through a radical shake-up in this book. She's gone from the perfect daughter to someone on the run and looking over her shoulder every day. I cannot even imagine that fear. I can't wait for her to learn to open up with the guys and for the mystery of her past to be solved.
The Guys!
Jax, his brother Felix, and their cousin Finn - three wolves in power in the pack. They are immediately drawn to Poppy and don't know why. It's just amazing to see them learn about their connection and start to build a relationship with her no matter what her past is.
The Smut!
The is a slow build series. We get some kissing action and build-up, but it'll come to ahead in later books.
The story is a slow builder with a time jump in there. We get Prim/Poppy's backstory in before we meet any of the guys. Once we do though it's on and the buildup and tension are fab. There's a lot of angst in here as we as the reader don't find things out until later in the book, but it just makes you devour it.
The FMC!
Poppy has been through a radical shake-up in this book. She's gone from the perfect daughter to someone on the run and looking over her shoulder every day. I cannot even imagine that fear. I can't wait for her to learn to open up with the guys and for the mystery of her past to be solved.
The Guys!
Jax, his brother Felix, and their cousin Finn - three wolves in power in the pack. They are immediately drawn to Poppy and don't know why. It's just amazing to see them learn about their connection and start to build a relationship with her no matter what her past is.
The Smut!
The is a slow build series. We get some kissing action and build-up, but it'll come to ahead in later books.
November 26, 2021
A great start to the series, I couldn't put this book down and read it in one sitting.
Primrose has been conditioned by her father to be a subservient wife to whoever he picks as her husband. She discovers a hidden secret and escapes.
Primrose was a refreshing character as she wasn't a kick@ss confident FMC, she is quite the opposite. Once she is discovered in another packs territory all her secrets start to unravel.
I enjoyed the pace of this book, we get to know the characters really well and can see their relationships growing. Primrose is reluctant to accept help and share her past, but the guys are so sweet and understanding.
I'm really looking forward to book 2, I think things are going to get really interesting now that the secrets and past has been revealed.
Primrose has been conditioned by her father to be a subservient wife to whoever he picks as her husband. She discovers a hidden secret and escapes.
Primrose was a refreshing character as she wasn't a kick@ss confident FMC, she is quite the opposite. Once she is discovered in another packs territory all her secrets start to unravel.
I enjoyed the pace of this book, we get to know the characters really well and can see their relationships growing. Primrose is reluctant to accept help and share her past, but the guys are so sweet and understanding.
I'm really looking forward to book 2, I think things are going to get really interesting now that the secrets and past has been revealed.
November 26, 2021
Loved this book, what a great start to a series. I love the fact the FMC has a daughter so it makes it a unique read.
Primrose is the daughter of an alpha, he agrees for her to be mated to another pack's alphas son. After mating him she learns a horrible secret.
So she runs, she changes her name to Poppy and hides in a different pack territory in which she should of informed them she was their but didn't she hid for 4 years until 3 wolves enter the bar she works at. Thinking she was behind the murders in their territory they keep an eye on her, but they learn that she isn't and she's their starkissed mate, her past soon catches up to her though and the guys are protecting her from them.
Overall a great read loved the guys & Poppy and also her friend Ava aswell as her daughter.
Primrose is the daughter of an alpha, he agrees for her to be mated to another pack's alphas son. After mating him she learns a horrible secret.
So she runs, she changes her name to Poppy and hides in a different pack territory in which she should of informed them she was their but didn't she hid for 4 years until 3 wolves enter the bar she works at. Thinking she was behind the murders in their territory they keep an eye on her, but they learn that she isn't and she's their starkissed mate, her past soon catches up to her though and the guys are protecting her from them.
Overall a great read loved the guys & Poppy and also her friend Ava aswell as her daughter.
November 30, 2021
This was an amazing quick read! Primrose is a wolf shifter of a pack that makes women do what women do best, become obedient wives and bear pups. Primrose believes this is all she is destined to do. She loves to paint but is matched with another packs future alpha Trent. Trent and her dad get along all too well and for terrifying reasons she can not tell a soul about. She runs away for 4 years before being found out by the local pack alpha and his brother and cousin...Jax, Felix, and Finn. They are fine specimens and Primrose now called Poppy has to decide whether to run or stay. She stays and her life may never be the same. Can she stay hidden in plain sight with 3 hot men that she is insanely attracted to? Cannot wait to read more!
November 22, 2021
I had never read anything by Willow Hayes before this book. And I'm hooked! I will be reading her other works.
Primrose is the daughter of an alpha & has been raised to be a good alpha's wife. After her mother's death, she is raised mostly by her grandmother due to her father's remarriage & a very young new step mother. She has lived her life trying her best to please her father, it hasn't always worked.
Jax is alpha of the Brennan pack. He has been trying for years to figure out why there have been dead humans turning up on his land. And why they all smell of unknown wolves.
This book was very good. I can't wait to see what happens next.
Primrose is the daughter of an alpha & has been raised to be a good alpha's wife. After her mother's death, she is raised mostly by her grandmother due to her father's remarriage & a very young new step mother. She has lived her life trying her best to please her father, it hasn't always worked.
Jax is alpha of the Brennan pack. He has been trying for years to figure out why there have been dead humans turning up on his land. And why they all smell of unknown wolves.
This book was very good. I can't wait to see what happens next.
November 28, 2021
This is the first book in a new series, Bold Hearts, and I have to say, I loved it! I was so engrossed in the story, I didn’t want it to end! The intrigue, the mystery, the emotion, the hotness, it is all sooo goood!
I absolutely loved Poppy! She is such a strong and incredible character. Of course, I also loved her men! I really loved the difference and uniqueness of each of the guys, yet how they fit perfectly together with each other and Poppy!
It’s not often I can say that I loved the side characters as much as I did the main characters, but this is definitely one of those times! Atticus, Ava, Millie, and I’m sure I’m forgetting some, but those were my favorites.
This story does leave us with a bit of a cliffhanger, which only makes me want to read book two even more! I highly recommend this book and am super excited to see what comes next!
I absolutely loved Poppy! She is such a strong and incredible character. Of course, I also loved her men! I really loved the difference and uniqueness of each of the guys, yet how they fit perfectly together with each other and Poppy!
It’s not often I can say that I loved the side characters as much as I did the main characters, but this is definitely one of those times! Atticus, Ava, Millie, and I’m sure I’m forgetting some, but those were my favorites.
This story does leave us with a bit of a cliffhanger, which only makes me want to read book two even more! I highly recommend this book and am super excited to see what comes next!
November 29, 2021
This is a slow burn, fated mates story that has you thinking one way then it shifts directions that has you on the edge of your seat. Primrose is a young lady who has been been prepared all her life to the be the wife of an Alpha, never did she believe that she would find love with that Alpha. Then lies and deceit get in the way of said love and hearts are shattered; all is not as it seems and the only thing that Primrose can do is run.
What happens beyond running? I can't say because I feel I would be giving away too much - BUT I can say that it's totally worth it and once things unravel you thank your lucky stars that you picked up this book; I did.
All of these characters bring out an emotion in you that will have you sucked in all the way.
What happens beyond running? I can't say because I feel I would be giving away too much - BUT I can say that it's totally worth it and once things unravel you thank your lucky stars that you picked up this book; I did.
All of these characters bring out an emotion in you that will have you sucked in all the way.
December 7, 2021
** 4 1/2 stars **
I literally inhaled this book in one day it completely drew me into it. Wolf Primrose/Poppy is such a sweet character. Traumatized by past events in her life as well as her Alpha father. She ends up hiding out in a different pack territory. Only to come face to face with 3 hot wolves - Jax, Finn & Felix. I loved their dynamic. It was endearing, flirtatious but also fiercely protective. Which in this book was perfect for Poppy with the life that shes had up until then. I really loved Ava too. She added much needed laughs and she was an absolute riot.
A brilliant start to this series and i really enjoyed reading it. I cant wait for the next book
I literally inhaled this book in one day it completely drew me into it. Wolf Primrose/Poppy is such a sweet character. Traumatized by past events in her life as well as her Alpha father. She ends up hiding out in a different pack territory. Only to come face to face with 3 hot wolves - Jax, Finn & Felix. I loved their dynamic. It was endearing, flirtatious but also fiercely protective. Which in this book was perfect for Poppy with the life that shes had up until then. I really loved Ava too. She added much needed laughs and she was an absolute riot.
A brilliant start to this series and i really enjoyed reading it. I cant wait for the next book
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