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I don’t need a pack. I’m doing just fine on my own.

Until one tiny mistake has me perfuming enough to draw every enforcement officer in a ten block radius.

I know what awaits me if I go into custody as an unclaimed Omega, so when a blazing hot and surprisingly kind Alpha throws me a life raft, I grab hold with both hands.

Only problem? He didn’t exactly clear his claim on me with his pack. They don’t want an Omega. Especially Thane, who seems to be calling the shots.

At least they’re letting me stay until they find another pack to take me. I should be grateful, but being trapped in a mansion with four unbonded Alphas that smell like heaven is pure torture.

Fox, Miles, Levi, and Thane are everything an Omega could ever want, but there’s a reason I was in hiding.

I have to remember… I’m Knot Their Omega.

CAPTIVATE is a standalone Omegaverse romance told in multiple points of view. It includes MM and MMFMM and a happily ever after is guaranteed.

338 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 10, 2023

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E.J. Lawson

4 books151 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 444 reviews
Profile Image for Mikky.
812 reviews216 followers
January 17, 2023
* I won a free review/early copy of this book from the author's newsletter. All opinions in this review are my own.

I've found myself yet again in uncharted (for me) territory. This is reverse harem in the omegaverse. I don't think I've read something quite like this since I started dipping my toes into reverse harem for the last few months. This was great for what it was! I liked that there was a consistent and steady plot woven throughout everything though it does derail towards the end.

All the characters were very likable and sweet. No one was overly macho for no apparent reason. They all treated each other with respect and if they didn't agree on something they discussed it like healthy adults. There was some brief family drama but it did eventually get resolved in a great way.

The universe the author created is nicely fleshed out in comparison to a few reverse harems I've read. I liked that there was a set of rules that society and the people therein followed. I liked that the heroine tried to make her way through it all but eventually failed because society set her up to fail.

Looking back I'd like to know more about her not-so-friend the drug dealer (whose name escapes me now...oops). I'd also have liked a book about her friend but that one was wrapped up in the epilogue of this book unfortunately. I'd love to see the ways past heroine's in this series can eventually promote change in this society with every book released. That would be an interesting concept to weave throughout these books.

Now onto the not-so-good. It's spoilery! You've been warned.



Aside from the points that irked me, I really enjoyed this book! Though as I said before I'll be knocking a star off for what I mentioned above. I do plan on reading the next book in this series. Here's hoping it doesn't repeat the sins of its past.
Profile Image for lovelyj22.
295 reviews15 followers
January 12, 2023
2.5-3⭐️

This is hard to review.

I loved the premise of this! It was different, having a disease that only affects omegas I was excited to see how that would play out. But I felt like things weren’t flushed out in places.
In some places the story was moving right along and held my interest, then bam it started moving slow and lost me.

As far as the guys my favorite I would have to say was Miles then Fox,Thane and Levi. Levi being last because I didn’t get to know him.
Once I found out why Thane didn’t want an omega then specifically why he was against Riley. I understood. ALTHOUGH… there was a scene in chapter 17 that had me 🤔👀 I found it odd.
The ending was predictable but I liked it. I never felt like DNF’ing.

I do want to say I wouldn’t consider this a high heat book. But we know high heat is subjective.
I love omegaverse and it’s been awhile since I’ve found one that’s not forgettable. And sadly this one is for me.
Profile Image for Cat Hoffpauir.
1,566 reviews155 followers
January 25, 2023
3.4 stars.
So I liked it. There just wasn’t much to it.
The relationships all seemed very surface level. We didn’t get to know any of the character all that well.
The sex was hot but with the way the relationships felt so shallow, just didn’t hit the same way they should’ve to really satisfy my need for smut.

I don’t know.
It just felt rushed, and a bit insincere what with her being sick…
I don’t think that’s why they got together…but the author really didn’t give us much else besides her scent being appealing to them.

I was just hoping for more from it I guess.
It was missing that undefinable ’thing’ that makes a book really satisfyingly entertaining, for me.
Profile Image for b..
77 reviews24 followers
May 18, 2023
-2/5-

So, let’s begin;

First of all I’m giving this rating just because there were few parts i cried and smiled at the beginning and this seems like the best option cause this was a mediocre to under mediocre read. Also because, It felt like the first draft with no editing or beta reading whatsoever.
•Characters acted out of their character and personality, they didn’t feel fleshed out or developed enough. They felt two dimensional. Miles was a character that i loved at the beginning but then he changed drastically and we didn’t even see much of him at the later half.
•It had so many contradictions, and out of character moments. Their behavior changed constantly as if a flip has been switched.
•The first half of the book and later half of the book felt like two different books.
•I didn’t like Thane at all because he was a stubborn idiot who couldn’t make his mind and he always said ‘i shouldn’t have done this and I shouldn’t have done that’ and i was like Aaa just shut the fuck up and grow up you are literally the pack leader and the oldest, and second half pretty much only had him? why write this as a poly romance if we aren’t gonna see all the characters and their own lives?
•Steamy parts were poorly written and mediocre at best and the men felt like totally different people at those parts.
• It was too long for no reason at all. It could have been half it’s length.
•So many things were mentioned and then they were completely forgotten. They were pretty much there for no reason at all.
• I did not like this book, it left a bad taste in my mouth, it fell flat for me and i didn’t resonate with it at all.
• It felt like the first draft with no editing or beta reading whatsoever.
• Overall it felt like like an underdeveloped story.

* Possible spoilers ahead, *
- An incurable disease at a really bad level being cured? I know that this is a fictional story and all but that is just so unrealistic. We’re told many times that she didn’t take any medications or anything before and overall just lived her life like this and at the end she is just cured? I loove my hea and read romances for that reason but that is just incorrect and false hope. I don’t like when authors ‘fix’ any and every problem to make the story have a ‘proper’ happily ever after. I would have loved if we got a hfn because this story would make sense with that. Also her infertility is ‘cured’ is hinted to be possibly cured as well in the epilogue.. I’m not even gonna comment about that.. i just wanna say, people can be happy without kids you know, they can have happy lives with just their partners if they can’t have them or don’t want them. I looove my baby filled epilogues but this story with her background, health and disease literally can’t have that like I don’t see it being possible at all. But the epilogue gives false hope and that did not sit well with me at all.
- Also, Even if your disease is at first degree and cured you are still at risk your whole life.(personal experience.)
- Riley didn’t even told Fox that she wrote all those stories thinking of him as the mc, i was waiting to read that cause she mentioned in her inner monologue but we never got it.
- There was a part that said: “ I see the moment in his eyes when he can’t contain himself for even another second. He’s going to knot me.” ?? like what? this is miles btw, the supposedly golden retriever guy of the pack. where is self control? where is consent?
- Thane bursts into the room and then runs away in the middle of steamy times was the first hint that I should have dnf this book.
- They are on the way to the hospital after her cervus episode, she is in tremendous amount of pain and Thane yells at her for standing up for him to his parents??
- Riley is hospitalized and in fatal condition and the next day while she is at the hospital and they are at home they pretty much just cook, joke, run, laugh and chill?? like wtf…
- The MM parts of the book felt forced and it’s as if they were there to make this a poly romance instead of a why choose one cause many people like me prefer poly. It didn’t feel natural and they only pretty much had a physical relationship and used one another when needed.

I was gonna give 3 stars but after reading all my highlighted wtf parts and writing this review I decided give 2 cause I really didn’t like this book, it left a bad taste in my mouth, it fell flat for me and i didn’t resonate with it at all.

I’m sorry that this was too long, it’s just so much easier to talk about things I didn’t like when it comes to books.

••Check the triggers please. I have one or two triggers tops and this book almost made me stop reading it. ••
Profile Image for Alicia Hern.
113 reviews1 follower
January 19, 2023
Health triggers

This was a darker view of an omegavers series. The pack and omega in this book was so strong and inspirational. The illnesses rampant in this universe only affected omega and as someone who has seen a family member go through cancer this was super well written in the ups and downs of a family going through an illness treatment. I really like this a lot. 4 stars for me.
Profile Image for Andrea.
372 reviews63 followers
April 5, 2023
“In the end I’m running from myself”

You all know I love a good omegaverse with knotting, nesting and a broken little omega. Captivate has all of that and more. This is a fast paced emotional roller coaster. I loved Riley and the Woods Pack. The dynamics between everyone was exciting to unravel. I read this in less than a day and stayed up way too late. This book has some parts that I found super unique and haven't seen in other OV's I really enjoyed how it played out. I am such a sucker for a sad rejected omega and this 100% delivered.
Profile Image for Lilibet Bombshell.
733 reviews71 followers
January 10, 2023
The usual caveat when it comes to reviewing indie, spicy romance novels versus the vast majority of other books applies here: I do not apply the same set of criteria to reviewing these types of books like I do the others. When reviewing spicy romance novels written by independent authors I review almost solely on my enjoyment level of the book.

I kind of plow through my way through omegaverse novels. You could say I’m a fan. Often I read them as soon as they come out and then just give them a star rating on GoodReads and move onto devouring another book, especially if I’m on an omegaverse binge. But I was given an opportunity to review this book by an author who’s new to me, so I snapped up the chance as soon as I could.

Immediately, I like the introduction to our FMC, an omega trying her hardest to hide her true nature and pretend to be a beta for quite a few good reasons (in her opinion, which is the only opinion that matters), and even though this isn’t a new plot set-up, I was impressed with Lawson’s take on the set-up and on how she wrote Riley, the FMC. Riley isn’t in a good place physically, mentally, or emotionally, but she loves her job and her independence. She’s lonely, but she’s resigned.

All it takes is one absent minded mistake, though, and Riley gets herself in some hot water and a conscientious alpha gets her out of an altercation with the authorities that could’ve ended far worse than it did. Said interaction, due to the overly patriarchal rules that permeate omegaverse novels, leads to the alpha who saved her from the cops having to take legal custody of her.

The romantic story arc between Riley and the pack who takes legal responsibility for her unfolds much like most omegaverse novels, with a good amount of sword crossing for all us thirsty readers who are into that. But what actually elevates this omegaverse novel for me is Riley, her trauma, her insecurities, her vulnerabilities, and how she differs in a significant way from typical omegas. (Being more specific would result in ye olde spoilers). Lawson must have had to do a lot of research to create Riley, as well as the characters of Thane (the alpha of her pack), and Thane’s parents so the plot could fully come together. I admire when authors do their leg work like this, bringing something that sounds so close to what women in real life might experience so the target audience might identify more with the FMC and also bringing a FMC to the pages with such a strong vulnerability.

I do think the ending was rushed a bit. In the second act there seemed to be some material that could’ve been moved around, combined, or excised in order to allow more room to breathe in the third act, but it’s not such a glaring error that I think it will turn away readers. It’s really a great omegaverse book that should garner a lot of attention. I hope it does.

I received a complimentary copy of this title from Courtney Dunham PA Services and the author. All views and opinions expressed herein are my own.

File Under: Contemporary Romance/LGBTQ Friendly/Alphabet Soup Romances/Omegaverse/PNR/Paranormal Romance/Romance Series/RH Romance/Reverse Harem Romance/Smut Level 3
Profile Image for Nina.
207 reviews3 followers
March 5, 2024
It was ok, but… I don’t know… something was missing. The smut was meh, and for the amount of angst and drama this book contained, I didn’t feel what I should have felt for any of the characters. Also, I don’t think I really got to know them. Especially Levi. That guy was basically a non-element in most of the book. I know virtually nothing about him, and considering he’s one of her four alphas, I feel like I should know *something* more than just that about him. Everything felt very surface-level. I wanted more.
October 12, 2023
3.5
This was an OK omega-verse read for me. At times the attraction felt too awkward as did everyone tiptoeing around one another all because the main alpha couldn’t make up his mind. For me this is the issue with the book as they all (even the heroine) seemed to accept giving up on any relationship between them even by the end. Sure we get a HEA but it felt a bit rushed and forced to me. I also somehow didn’t realize there were four guys not three as Levi sort of blended into each of the other guys who were easier to remember.
A chance meeting lands an Omega, the hiding in plain sight & on the down low-Riley, in need of a big rescue. Luckily a chance meeting at a bookstore sets her on the path to love and healing. There are heavier topics touched on and some things (minor) I wish were explained more but otherwise it was a pretty quick and adorable read.
Profile Image for Chalice.
3,011 reviews91 followers
February 17, 2023
The couple: Fox/Miles/Levi/Thane and Riley

Romance trope: omegaverse; rh
Series: Knot Their Omega
Length: 338 pages

Plot: Riley is an omega living as a beta, trying to hide her true nature. She's doing okay, but one day she's caught, and the only way she escapes being taken in by the police is that Miles, an alpha she met in the bookstore, claims her as his. He takes her home, but his pack isn't completely on board. Fox and Levi think she could be their omega, but the head alpha, Thane, wants nothing to do with her. As their relationships progress, Riley realizes that her secrets could destroy them all. They all have decisions to make before they can call each other mates.

Commentary: The guys really annoyed me most of the time. They were all "let's have sex" but the whole time they were trying to find a pack that would take her in. I know they didn't put a lot of effort into it, but they still kept talking about how they would find her a pack and if one of them decided they didn't want her, then they would all give her up. To me, that goes against the idea of mates who would do anything for each other. Not only that, it didn't make me feel that they had real relationships. They guys were in a love fest with each other, but Riley seemed to be shoehorned in there.
And in the end, the thing that worried Thane the most was the thing that brought them all together.

Thane:
“But I need you to understand that I don’t think I can bond with her,” says Thane. He gives Miles an apologetic look. “I’m not saying no, but I’m not saying yes either. Not yet.
“But I need you to understand that I don’t think I can bond with her,” says Thane. He gives Miles an apologetic look. “I’m not saying no, but I’m not saying yes either. Not yet.
She’s saying she understands me. My worries. My position in the pack. And if I tell her to—if I think it’s what’s right—she’ll walk away.

Levi:
"I think we don't try not to get to know her, and in the meantime, we keep looking for the perfect pack to take her in if we ultimately decide it’s best for her to go.”
“Your parents have been pushing you to get an Omega in your life for a while now. And you know how rare they are these days. Maybe we don’t have the option to be picky. Maybe Riley is the only option we are ever going to get. Besides, I think deep down, you know she’s right for us.”

Fox:
“Thane, you need to make a decision about Riley. You’ve been stringing her—and us—along for too long. It’s bordering on cruel, and I know you’re not cruel. Or at least that you’re not trying to be.”


Next book in the series: Hypnotize
January 2, 2023
This was a surprise ARC mail for me today on Jan 2 & as a standalone, was the perfect way to start my new year!

This was an emotional, steamy omegaverse reverse-harem with MF & MM scenes! I loved Riley & her found pack - Miles, Fox, Levi, Thane. The side characters were great too. All personalities (plus, booklovers!) & the world were developed well. I loved the romance & smut is hottttt!🔥🔥, Devoured this in around 6hrs.

The story was overall fast-paced, while the 1st half felt more like slowburn, the 2nd half sped up. Like nail-biting, I wanna know what happens! It all kept me hooked 😉.

A lot of time was spent on her medical problem (which is great!), I do wish we spent even more time on them just bonding, I loved seeing them take care of her & eachother. Yes, I'm greedy & want more of this pack! They're so sweet & charming 🥰. I loved the resolution & HEA💕.

I'm excited for E.J's venture into omegaverse, this was my 1st book by this author & am looking forward to more!

These were my 1st thoughts & I will write a longer review soon.
Profile Image for Melinda Kratsch.
241 reviews11 followers
January 25, 2023
Still chasing the high of the Lola and the Millionaires duet and the Pack Darling duet. This was fine, and sweet, but I got bored towards the end. I loved the first half, and I love the whole vibe of a non traditional pack rescuing a non traditional omega, but it fell flat for me. They all kept saying how perfect Riley was for their pack, except I didn’t get that impression at all. She hid in her room 75% of the time, and somehow they all fell head over heals for her and it was so unrealistic that it took me out of the story. Other than instantly being attracted to her, I couldn’t understand why they felt she was perfect for their pack.

Overall it was sweet, and a good intro to ABO dynamics if it’s not something you’re familiar with.
Profile Image for Zen.
2,104 reviews
April 24, 2023
When I picked this up, I expected a fun read. A little conflict. Circumstances keeping them apart. I did not expect such a heavy subject and really wish I would have known going into it.
Profile Image for Megan.
239 reviews8 followers
April 10, 2023
4/5⭐️

If you’re looking for an omegaverse book with the sweetest Alphas, great plot with found family vibes and amazing spice, then this is definitely the book for you!

In this world, omegas are thought of as property for most Alphas but Riley is lucky enough to be taken in by a pack of four alphas who treat her like a queen.

Miles was the perfect cinnamon roll Alpha. Fox was cheeky & funny. Levi was caring & attentive. And Thane… Thane was grumpy as hell but he had such a tender side and I absolutely fell in love with him!!

The bonds between all the Alphas in this pack made my heart melt, I loved them all!
Profile Image for Esmeralda.
93 reviews
January 10, 2023
⭐️ Book Rating- 5
🌶 Spice Rating- 4

📚 Please Note:
I was given an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review by peachykeenas. My review will be 100% honest. There's also not spoilers in this review, just basic info.

🪴 - Mini Review:
If you are looking for a spicy, a bit angsty and overall bitter sweet omegaverse book then this one is for you. It's quite a ride and I highly recomend this book.

I fell in love with Riley and her men almost instantly. (Literally probably quicker than I should've but they were precious and I just couldn't NOT fall for them.

🏆 - Lengthy Review:
Okay, so as my review shows I rated this book a solid 5 star. (Which I don't really give that often.) My reasoning for this is because I absolutely loved Riley, Miles, Fox, Thane & Levi.

I hardly read Omegaverse books unless the book itself sounds extremely promising. Which this one did, judging by the blurb and book tropes provided by peachykeenas. Well, I was given absolutely everything I was promised AND more.

Riley is a strong and cute omega. Miles is a very kindhearted Alpha. Fox is a very secure and flirtatious Alpha. Thane is a very emotional and mentally guarded Alpha. Levi is a very intelligent and cute Alpha. The four Alpha's say they are complete but Riley truly completes them.

I ate this whole book up since I genuinely became immersed into the book. I will definitely be checking up with the Author's social's to check out the next book in this standalone series!

🍫 - Favorite Scene/Favorite Quotes:
“This was about you and me, okay? And you and me, we’re golden, baby.” - Miles
“There’s my girl. I love your laugh.” - Miles
“Really?” - Riley
“Really. I wish I could make you laugh all the time.” - Miles
Profile Image for Jess | jadecanread.
634 reviews110 followers
April 14, 2023
This was just okay but it did make me tear up every now and then!

The writing felt unpolished and the characters and their relationships were underdeveloped. It took me a couple of chapters to forgive and ignore the writing and just focus on the story at hand. I was immediately intrigued but also felt a bit thrown off at the speed everything happens. The characters were all one dimensional and their relationship felt remarkably shallow. Justice for Levi because I don't know anything about that guy lol. The smut was also ok. I didn't expect Riley to start getting fucked so quickly but kudos to her.

Outside of that, I thought Riley's hesitations (and Thane's) were completely understandable. I usually hate miscommunication/withholding information but I liked it here! This is my first time reading an omegaverse with chronic illness rep and while I wanted more angst, I'm happy for the HEA.

Rating 3.25/5
Profile Image for Aplis.
546 reviews40 followers
February 14, 2023
For a beginner, this one's really good. Not over the top like some omegaverses and not too excessively sweet like the others.
Profile Image for Mazzy.
153 reviews16 followers
January 24, 2023
ngl this might be my fave omegaverse book🫣 it was so wholesome and had a great plot as well as having some good ass smut and relationships between the group
Profile Image for Camilla.
170 reviews
January 13, 2023
2.75⭐️
2🌶

I feel slightly disappointed after finishing this book. This had such an interesting idea - the fmc Riley is an omega who is sick with an illness called Cervus that only attacks Omegas, and is the reason behind the omegas dwindling numbers. Riley is a sweetheart who has isolated herself from most everyone due to the sickness, and has decided to not bond with any pack since she will die.

I loved this idea, and it wasn't executed in a terrible manner at all, but I'm left wanting a bit more emotional depth. It felt quite surface level, and although there was some character growth for Riley and Thane (one of the alphas), the rest of the guys felt a bit one-dimensional. Especially Levi felt like a big questionmark, he had no personality or purpose in the story, in my opinion. If you removed him from the story, there would be no major difference or change.

As a whole, this story had great potential and was a refreshing new look at omegaverse as a genre. As is, it wasn't bad but it wasn't a book I know I'll want to reread. Sadly quite forgettable, although the idea was interesting.
Profile Image for Laura (lady_h_reads).
517 reviews145 followers
January 5, 2023
Captivate shook me – this was more than the heat-crazed fare we often get from omegaverse books. It was an emotional journey. I was invested throughout. It was so moving. So raw. So beautiful. So genuine. The HEA made me cry; I was that committed to the characters.

I really identified with the FMC, Riley, who was hiding as a beta so she could retain control of her destiny. Her motivation to keep the alphas at a distance made sense as she tried to protect them and herself. The heartache she felt was palpable. At the same time, experiencing the male POV gave us an understanding of the alphas who wanted her and the one who was reluctant to accept that he needed her too.

Don’t worry; there is plenty of steam. Lots of steam. Hot, sweaty, and sticky. Pre-heat s3x. Heat s3x. And s3x just because the pack loves one another. The Alphas in the pack all have existing MM relationships that continue when Riley joins, so expect a mixture of MM and MMFM scenes to enjoy. All of the essential OV elements are there – scenting, nesting (and hoarding of clothing), knotting, and mating bites.

I loved every minute of reading this book, all the moments – painful, sexy, romantic, and funny. I highly recommend it to OV lovers.
Profile Image for Mandyloves2read.
1,514 reviews165 followers
January 13, 2023
This was a fantastic omegaverse romance story told from this author it captivated me and gave me all the feels it’s suspenseful heartbreaking and angsty I loved the world the characters were amazing the spice was delicious and the writing was excellent definitely want more in this universe and can’t wait to see what this author does next!
Profile Image for BabybookWyvern ✨🐉✨.
324 reviews11 followers
March 31, 2023
Like, a little more than 50% was all I could take.

I gave it the benefit of the doubt a couple of times and then it just hit this point in the story where I realized, ohmygosh. This is actually horse manure. 💀

Forget about the first couple of bits where we meet our FL and she’s forgotten about her suppressors bc she’s so hyper-focused (that’s actually totally understandable and something I could forgive) where it starts to trigger “that’s stupid” in my head was when her dealer and friend was getting arrested.

She immediately becomes the most obvious Omega in the world when she decides it be a bang arse idea to RUN from the COPS who might have otherwise just raised an eyebrow in her direction but you know, the girl apparently can’t act for sht. Again, this (stupid) hiccup of hers isn’t SO bad in my head so of course I keep reading.

Cue being saved by an Alpha. Great. ✨👍🏼✨

The FL thanking said Alpha for getting her out of a jam while she struggles with her new reality where she’s essentially lost all of her previous autonomy and independence (from BC Cop chase) to her legally basically being someone else’s property now (AC Cop chase). Also very good stuff to read as a reader. ✨👍🏼✨

Her living with the Alpha and his pack that put their necks out for her. Cool. ✨👍🏼✨

Her meeting all the ML’s, and being hurt when the Head Alpha says at point blank, they’re not looking for an Omega and she’s sore about them not liking her like that despite being fully aware herself that this is also not something she’s after. Alright, that’s a bit not cool, hmmm, but continue. 🤨

And this is where things really start to go down hill.

The FL still occasionally remembers she can’t have a pack… but doesn’t do a whole hell of a lot to curb herself either. Eventually she sleeps with Miles (ML #1 that saved her from the Cops), then with Fox (ML #2) and then randomly in the midst of her first tryst with Fox, Thane the Head Alpha (and ML #3 (out of 4)), comes bursting through the door, tackles her, copulates for a couple of happy time thrusts where I don’t think either of them come before pushing off of her mid-go and then fleeing her room entirely.

That. That was where the Big Red Flag waved itself proudly in my face. Thane literally barges in while the FL is getting down with her bad self and wrestling the Tiger (idk people, I’m sprinkling euphemisms add naus), asks to join (growly), she caves faster than a wet tissue even tho he’s never once treated her nicely or interacted with her in a personable manner (is there a Bechtel test for healthy love interests?), she’s apparently sustaining her lust on his d*ckhead energy, he gets a couple of strokes in and then LEAVES. Like, mid thrust bc the dude has issues. And while I’m swallowing this pill down that she was basically just USED, the FL seems completely fine bc she just turns BACK TO THE ORIGINAL GUY she was messing with before Thane busted in and CONTINUES. Like nothing happened.

That was a pretty solid no for me. But funny enough, what really, finally did it for me, was when all of the Leads are gathered around the dinner table (after the Thane thing) and (ML #4) Levi just casually brings up over dinner a traumatic, deeply personal thing the FL told to ML #1, Miles in assumed confidence. I can’t express how much I loath when trust is broken like that in a book for no good reason. The ML’s think nothing of that action and betrayal to the FL except fulfilling their growly, possessive, beat their chests quotas Omega Universe books need to truly be considered an O.U. And a majority of the time the FL brushes that act off like it doesn’t matter and that just completely invalidates her privacy, her character, her spine and any trust I held for the ML’s.

All of this was just a long way of saying, “not for me”.
Profile Image for Bridget Blake.
Author 10 books50 followers
March 6, 2023
Omegaverse with all the feels

E.J. Lawson brings all the Omegaverse goodness that we love and adds a dash of reality. Reading about hard topics like illness can be difficult, but this book tackles it tastefully.
Profile Image for Christine Woo.
Author 4 books37 followers
February 24, 2023
WARNING: One. I will not be agreeing with the majority. Two. I will be including spoilers.

What exactly did I think of this book...?



That's right ladies and gents. I. Could. Not. Stop. Reading.

It was that good. I mean could it have been better? I mean it could. Everything has the potential to be better because there is no such thing as perfection. Yet, for an RH romance omega verse, it was pretty great. This author did a great job at telling the story in such a clear and yet fluid writing style. Some would say it was bland or boring, but I think that the author was great at actually keeping to the story and not making everything about the spice. She made sure that every voice was distinct and heard. Every character was recognizable through their words, thoughts, and actions. The world they lived in wasn't too hard to grasp and the drama was refreshing from the usual omegaverse stories. I put that down as a solid win.





Do you know how many Omegaverse stories kind of repeat themselves. (This book hinted at that lol) You get an oppressed, sad, broken, tragic, or badass girl who is most likely an omega (except the few that are betas), who meets the pack of her life and boom! Lots of spice and no real story.



I mean don't get me wrong. I still like them, but it becomes very depthless and shallow.

The one that I feel really balanced the two aspects of the omegaverse trope and that I really felt the oomf was:

Pack Darling by Lola Rock

This one came in at a really close second. Although, they were WORLDS of a difference, the same feeling was there. The feeling that I actually read a story and that there was something other than just girl falls in love. There was also something different than the other stories. Some element that set it apart.

For Captivate, it was the fact that in this Omegaverse world, Omegas get cervus. This was like a omega's only version of cancer. Incurable. Only a few trials have been successful to put it in remission. Our girl has been suffering from it, alone.

However, I think that the guys weren't overwhelming, and handled things very well. It was a big part of why I loved this book so much. In omegaverse stories or even RH's, there's almost this incessant need for writers to make the guys practically fall over themselves to please the FMC. Here, they did want to take care of her and do a lot for her, but it didn't feel so THIRSTY or DESPARATE. It was Sweet and inspirational.

"I can see his desire to take care of me warring with his desire to want to do whatever I say...


I mean you would think that the FMC has some sort of magical golden personality, we'll say..., Yet, there is nothing really that they have to do to really deserve that regard.

This girl didn't do that much either, but she's good to them. Accepting their faults. Just trying to do her best to actually be a nice person and not just some badass who thinks she knows everything. The guys take to her quickly (except for Thane of course), but they didn't just insta love her. Like when Levi (one of the guys says to Thane when they're discussing whether they like Riley (FMC) and if she should stay with them):

"No, not against it," I answer truthfully. "But like I said, I don't know her. None of us do, not really."


Do I think they really get to know her better by the end of the book? Nope. There's still a lot I think that could have been discovered or built to really feel the strength in the relationship/their connection. Still, for the book itself, it was enough. We got to see why the guys fell for her and that they were getting to know a lot of the "important" things about each other. In other words, their relationship didn't feel forced. It felt easy going, comfortable, natural, and more realistic.

"My intentions are Riley's intentions," he says with all the confidence in the world. "If she wants to part of our pack, we would love to have her. If not, we will giver her all the support to take the next steps in her life."


Honestly, the characters all suited each other, not just to the FMC. They all collectively made each other stronger by supporting their faults and quirks. Thane was serious, but they all helped him change his area of medicine when they saw the signs of serious depression & burnout. Fox has dyslexia and they even point out that he's "needier" than the other guys. They still support him and his issues, accommodating both problems when necessary. Same went with the other two guys.



I think the only issue I had was that I wish they added more scenes with Levi. Although he was a major addition to the group, I feel like he wasn't the author's favorite character to write. He was not as included as the rest of the guys, IMO. However, the moments he did speak were AMAZING, FUNNY, and he always just seemed to know just what to say.

Honestly, I loved it. I laughed and laughed some more. I cringed and swooned. It was just an all around good read. I had fun, which is the best part of reading. I give it 5 stars because at the end of the day, it was well-written, well-balanced, and more realistic than the other omegaverse stories I've read. It didn't get too cringey or overdramatic. It was like goldilocks, "Just Right."

Happy Reading guys, if you're into RH or Omegverse books, I highly recommend this one! Hope you like it as much as I did!

A Few More Favorite Lines :

"If that was Thane's messy doctor's scrawl, it wouldn't be legible."

"Maybe because you're trying to eat your pasta with a dinner knife."

"I am every main character in every book I've ever created, finding her bliss."

"And isn't true love something you'd see before aliens and UFOs?"

"Worse, one of us could die tomorrow? I could break my neck in a game, or you know, one of your soups could blow up in your face." (I really laughed at that one haaahaa).

Songs That Give Me the Feels For This Book :


Dear No One - Tori Kelly

Sit Still, Look Pretty - Daya

Kings & Queens - Ava Max

Crazy Little Thing Called Love - Queen

Girl Crush - Harry Styles (This one gave me more Thane vibes when he actually started to realize he likes Riley).






Profile Image for Amy.
226 reviews
July 12, 2023
Can't be bothered with a full review, here are my notes.

Like that Thane has nice moments with the guys even if he is "the grumpy one"

They're very casual about discussing Riley being assaulted and it's gross. Don't like the whole "we're not gossiping we just tell each other everything" thing, not their secret to tell

Time jumps make the book feel rushed. Felt like we missed out on a lot of the relationship building

Pacing of the whole book weird

Riley getting published was a bit cheesy

"Somehow, between taking care of me, twisting his ankle, missing practices, and all the other drama in his life, Fox was able to lead the Rogers City Ravens to the championship game against the Los Lagos Sharks." Lmao convenient

So many little things that are meant to be sweet but are so unrealistic it just takes me out of the book, like Fox being immediately promoted to assistant coach after being injured. Almost all of them are related to the careers
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Rachel.
1,842 reviews91 followers
January 27, 2023
Author Elena Lawson is trying her hand at omegaverse under the pen name EJ Lawson. Captivated is her first ever omegaverse and she knocked it out of the park. This multi-perspective rh had soulful characters, a great plot, and had me in my feelings. First time or not, EJ has done an outstanding job.


I love it when the main characters have unique or lesser-used careers. The mfc, Riley, is a ghostwriter who loves what she does and has a passion for books. She writes romances with happily ever afters, living through them because she doesn't believe she gonna get her own because of her illness. I admire her, even though she's sick Riley is determined to live life on her own terms. The omega is spunky, playful, independent, and caring. Riley has my heart, she deserves her own happily ever after.


Riley might just get that HEA if the Woods Pack has anything to say about it. These alphas were the sweetest and I loved them. Sure, Thane was a wound too tight and had a lot of issues to face he still wasn't a bad guy. Miles was the hot nerd, the boy next door type. Funnily enough, I feel like I didn't get to see that much of Levi but from what I did see he was the calm and collected type, rational. Then there is Fox. Fox may have a happy playful facade but he's been hurt by his past yet still has the biggest heart. He's an adorable puppy. A big, sexy, adorable puppy and my favorite. Don't tell the others.


I found the whole plot of this book to be refreshing. As I said Riley has a unique and interesting job, and while a few things were familiar like fake bonding troupe and forced proximity, there was a serious aspect of the medical issues, the science behind things, and more. This book was meant to pull at heartstrings, and it sure did. It amazed me how calm and accepting Riley was about everything usually the omega has the most emotional issues but in this book, it was the alpha of the pack that was struggling with a lot more than anyone knew.


Captivate was marvelous. I adored the characters and found that the story was unique and compelling. Captivate drew out so many different emotions while wishing for the best outcome and I got it. EJ knows how to write an omegaverse, I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Jess.
744 reviews309 followers
February 1, 2023
Such a good sweet rh omegaverse! I enjoyed Captivate so much. The premise was great—very fitting of the genre but also different enough that I was excited for something new. The pack was awesome. Miles and Fox in particular were lovely from the very start. Levi took a little time to really get fleshed out. And Thane…well, I ended up with such warm fuzzy feelings for Thane but he had to grow on me. In my opinion, the only real flaw with Captivate was that it seemed like the relationship growth wasn’t quite gradual. Not on the page, at least. The jumps forward in the relationships seemed almost sudden. I wish the building of all of that could have been on the page instead of mentioned in passing right before a new development. That said, none of that truly mattered to me by the end because they were all so sweet together and I loved it. The first half of the book was good, but the second half was near perfect.

Overall, I adored Captivate and am for sure planning on picking up Hypnotize as soon as it releases!
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