Review of Pack Reject (The Splintered Bond, #1) by Merri Bright
When I first caught wind of Merri Bright’s latest venture back into the paranormal romance realm, my book-loving heart skipped a beat. After adoring her The Forgotten Angel series, I had high hopes for Pack Reject, and I’m thrilled to say it exceeded every expectation I had. This first installment in the Splintered Bond series drew me in immediately, and I found myself unable to tear away until I reached that tantalizing cliffhanger. If you, like me, gravitate toward stories that amplify strength in the face of trauma, you’re in for a treat.
Pack Reject follows Flor, a wolf-shifter navigating her way through a world that has dealt her some tough cards. Right from the outset, her fierce resilience captivated me. It’s impossible not to root for her as she faces adversities and seeks vengeance for the wrongs inflicted upon her. One moment that stands out is when she declares her willingness to exact retribution for her enemies—so powerful and visceral! Bright’s writing imbues Flor with a strength that’s both admirable and relatable, making her journey truly compelling.
As I dove deeper into the narrative, the romantic stakes rose with each new character introduced, and I found myself thinking, "Oh, he’s my favorite!" almost every time a potential mate appeared. But by the end, it was Joaquin who stole the show—an alpha with a bit of an unhinged edge. His willingness to deliver the hearts of Flor’s enemies on a silver platter? Chef’s kiss! I have a soft spot for those intense MMCs. While the golden retriever types have their charm (I still love you, sweet boys), give me the stabby ones every time.
Notably, this book is a slow-burn, why-choose romance that promises a slow-building harem. The pacing felt just right, allowing me to savor every moment and every connection. Bright skillfully weaves tension throughout the narrative, culminating in an ending that hit like a punch to the gut—an absolute cliffhanger that left me desperate for more.
And I cannot finish this review without mentioning the audiobook experience! The dual narration by Allie Piper and Ryan Stone was exceptional. Their performances brought the characters to life, especially Flor’s southern drawl and Brand’s deep growl, pulling me deeper into the story. There were moments during the narration—particularly in Chapter 35 and that heartbreaking epilogue—where I found myself in tears. Hearing those lines infused with emotion made Flor’s journey feel even more impactful, and I can’t wait to listen to the subsequent volumes in audio.
For those who enjoy immersive worlds filled with magic, romance, and a touch of danger, Pack Reject is a must-read. It’s perfect for fans of slow-burn romances and strong female protagonists who refuse to be defined by their pasts. Merri Bright has delivered a spellbinding read that touched my heart and left me breathless—and isn’t that what we all crave from a good book? So grab your copy, and prepare for a wild ride; trust me, you won’t want to miss it!
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