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The Downing Cycle #1
The Country Omega
What if desire really did have the power to sweep you away?
Omega Ethan Downing doesn’t want a mate. He wants to play his piano and travel the world. But with his acceptance to a prestigious musical conservatory hanging in the balance – and an ex who won’t take “no” for a hint – Ethan’s father arranges a bonding with an alpha neither of them have ever met.
Alpha Antonio Valdez’s life is perfect. He has the career, the money, the looks. In fact, he’d be perfectly happy never to bond at all. When his overbearing father arranges a bonding for him, he’s ready to find every excuse in the world not to go through with it.
One meeting changes both Ethan’s and Antonio's minds.
Too bad their fathers have also changed theirs.
Now Ethan and Antonio have to fight for something they never even dreamed they wanted: each other.
The Country Omega is the first book in a three-part series set in the Omegaverse. It is a non-shifter, paranormal world in which mpreg is a possibility (but does not occur in this story).
*
5-Heart rating from MMGoodBookReviews.com!
Omega Ethan Downing doesn’t want a mate. He wants to play his piano and travel the world. But with his acceptance to a prestigious musical conservatory hanging in the balance – and an ex who won’t take “no” for a hint – Ethan’s father arranges a bonding with an alpha neither of them have ever met.
Alpha Antonio Valdez’s life is perfect. He has the career, the money, the looks. In fact, he’d be perfectly happy never to bond at all. When his overbearing father arranges a bonding for him, he’s ready to find every excuse in the world not to go through with it.
One meeting changes both Ethan’s and Antonio's minds.
Too bad their fathers have also changed theirs.
Now Ethan and Antonio have to fight for something they never even dreamed they wanted: each other.
The Country Omega is the first book in a three-part series set in the Omegaverse. It is a non-shifter, paranormal world in which mpreg is a possibility (but does not occur in this story).
*
5-Heart rating from MMGoodBookReviews.com!
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 26, 2016
About the author
Penelope Peters
16 books51 followersPenelope Peters wrote her first story at the age of nine, based on a dream she couldn’t shake. This is probably why most of her romances usually include the weird and whimsical. Penelope has been happily married to her college sweetheart for two decades, which is probably why her romances are practically guaranteed happy endings. Armed with her two kids, her husband, and her somewhat-trusty laptop, Pen’s traveled to more countries than you can count on two hands. (She’s very close to filling up that third.) Currently Penelope has returned to the land of her birth (somewhat reluctantly), where she is surrounded by trees, taco trucks, and her collection of counted cross stitch kits.
You can find Penelope on Facebook (www.facebook.com/PenelopePetersAuthor), Twitter (@penelope_writes), Tumblr (azriona – it’s her personal account, you are hereby warned), and her website (www.penelope-peters.com), where you can learn about how to receive updates and ARCs.
Icon by anotherwellkeptsecret.tumblr.com
You can find Penelope on Facebook (www.facebook.com/PenelopePetersAuthor), Twitter (@penelope_writes), Tumblr (azriona – it’s her personal account, you are hereby warned), and her website (www.penelope-peters.com), where you can learn about how to receive updates and ARCs.
Icon by anotherwellkeptsecret.tumblr.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
February 27, 2016
So I get what Peters was trying to do with this story, but for me, it just fell flat. The outdated social conventions of marriage were a twist, but I don't think they were an entirely successful one. Antonio's father's reluctance to change the contract made very little sense, all things considered, and Antonio and Ethan's romance seemed more contrivance than actual affection. Ethan was a manipulative little shit, kind of a dumb one, at that, and the situation with Robert was confusing and unnecessary. If you're going to create an obstacle in the form of a former lover, have that obstacle make sense in some way. This was just manners, and I'm sorry, no amount of manners should make it okay to agree to let your child marry a sexual predator.
And that ending was profoundly unsatisfying.
And that ending was profoundly unsatisfying.
May 10, 2016
Hmmm. Alphas, betas and omegas? I thought I was getting a shifters book, but no.
Instead, all the instincts are there (the search for a mate, the stimuli of scents, bonding with bites and knotting, coming into heat or 'estrus'). Particularly clever, is the gender aspects, titles are non gender specific although traditional pronouns are maintained. Mothers can be male or female and mpreg is a viable option.
Ethan is an omega with ambition and independent ideas, however his status means that his options are limited. In many ways, it reminded me of the Stepford Wives. If he wants to finish his education at a musical conservatory he must be bonded and seek his mate's permission first.
Ethan meets Antonio a potential suitor but much stands in their way and time is running out.
Because the story is set in an omegaverse where everyone has two genders, the male/female gender and the Alpha,Beta,Omega gender (with the latter determining fairly strict social roles) in a world that is otherwise very like our own, there's plenty of food for thought...
Full guest here Boy Meets Boy Reviews
A complimentary copy of the book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Instead, all the instincts are there (the search for a mate, the stimuli of scents, bonding with bites and knotting, coming into heat or 'estrus'). Particularly clever, is the gender aspects, titles are non gender specific although traditional pronouns are maintained. Mothers can be male or female and mpreg is a viable option.
Ethan is an omega with ambition and independent ideas, however his status means that his options are limited. In many ways, it reminded me of the Stepford Wives. If he wants to finish his education at a musical conservatory he must be bonded and seek his mate's permission first.
Ethan meets Antonio a potential suitor but much stands in their way and time is running out.
Because the story is set in an omegaverse where everyone has two genders, the male/female gender and the Alpha,Beta,Omega gender (with the latter determining fairly strict social roles) in a world that is otherwise very like our own, there's plenty of food for thought...
Full guest here Boy Meets Boy Reviews
A complimentary copy of the book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 2, 2017
1.5* rounded up to 2
One of the things I liked about this book was that the gender roles were somewhat non traditional. I can't be sure but it seems to be set in this current decade in some sort of AU Earth. It is not as I thought, a typical werewolf/shifter story. However, the characters are setup as such, i.e. Alphas, Betas, Omegas, etc. So, here is what I liked...
1. Titles were not gender specific. All Omegas that bore children were mothers, (though traditional pronouns were maintained).
2. All alphas appeared to be at the very least bisexual - though not specifically expressed, no one cared one way or the other if an omega was male or female because their biology allowed them to bare children no matter the gender.
The AU description is some strange mesh that my mind could not seem to reconcile. In the beginning there was talk of traveling on a train and reference to it being a steam engine; so steampunk, right? Then it went underground to pull into what sounded like a modern day Grand Central Station. I guess the first talk of the steam engine stuck in my mind and I just felt confused by the world that world that Peters was trying to build. Most everything else seemed like a modern 21st century world, including reference to power ballads and Adele, EXCEPT for..duh duh duh duh... archaic marital contracts. This aspect just turned this book into a historical romance, with a confusing backdrop, where omegas are chattel (women), or at least treated as such. It must SUCK royally to be a female omega in this world.
All of this would have been just ok except for this! I removed a whole star because
Really? No decent mother would say something like that, and no decent person would sit by and watch it happen to another CHILD That seriously made me look at his mother like, WTF IS WRONG WITH YOU? Just one more example of this confusing and frustrating landscape. I mean, are we in 2016 or pre-1950s? This blasé approach to such a sensitive subject, was disturbing. There were other things I had a problem with, that I could mention but they all circle back to the same spot.
Not as problematic but definitely just as annoying, were the strange smell combinations that were supposed to describe some sort of heady, arousing pheromones, e.g. sour taffy (huh?), yeasty (gross).
And then this particular analogy left me needing a Benadryl, or Calamine lotion...
"...it was exactly like that moment of exquisite relief when Ethan scratched at a bug bite on his leg, pleasure and relief and ache all mixed together, and the intense desire to just keep scratching, even knowing he’d draw blood eventually." Uh uh, not sexy to constantly equate arousal with itching. I think there is medication for that.
I have my reasons why I avoid these kinds of stories. I should listen to myself more often.
One of the things I liked about this book was that the gender roles were somewhat non traditional. I can't be sure but it seems to be set in this current decade in some sort of AU Earth. It is not as I thought, a typical werewolf/shifter story. However, the characters are setup as such, i.e. Alphas, Betas, Omegas, etc. So, here is what I liked...
1. Titles were not gender specific. All Omegas that bore children were mothers, (though traditional pronouns were maintained).
2. All alphas appeared to be at the very least bisexual - though not specifically expressed, no one cared one way or the other if an omega was male or female because their biology allowed them to bare children no matter the gender.
That's kinda where it ended for me...
The AU description is some strange mesh that my mind could not seem to reconcile. In the beginning there was talk of traveling on a train and reference to it being a steam engine; so steampunk, right? Then it went underground to pull into what sounded like a modern day Grand Central Station. I guess the first talk of the steam engine stuck in my mind and I just felt confused by the world that world that Peters was trying to build. Most everything else seemed like a modern 21st century world, including reference to power ballads and Adele, EXCEPT for..duh duh duh duh... archaic marital contracts. This aspect just turned this book into a historical romance, with a confusing backdrop, where omegas are chattel (women), or at least treated as such. It must SUCK royally to be a female omega in this world.
All of this would have been just ok except for this! I removed a whole star because
Really? No decent mother would say something like that, and no decent person would sit by and watch it happen to another CHILD That seriously made me look at his mother like, WTF IS WRONG WITH YOU? Just one more example of this confusing and frustrating landscape. I mean, are we in 2016 or pre-1950s? This blasé approach to such a sensitive subject, was disturbing. There were other things I had a problem with, that I could mention but they all circle back to the same spot.
Not as problematic but definitely just as annoying, were the strange smell combinations that were supposed to describe some sort of heady, arousing pheromones, e.g. sour taffy (huh?), yeasty (gross).
And then this particular analogy left me needing a Benadryl, or Calamine lotion...
"...it was exactly like that moment of exquisite relief when Ethan scratched at a bug bite on his leg, pleasure and relief and ache all mixed together, and the intense desire to just keep scratching, even knowing he’d draw blood eventually." Uh uh, not sexy to constantly equate arousal with itching. I think there is medication for that.
I have my reasons why I avoid these kinds of stories. I should listen to myself more often.
January 31, 2016
4.5* stars
So, this came up on my recommendations page, I'm always on the lookout for shifter stories, so new author, liked the blurb and Peter pointered.......
To set the scene before I review, I have been reading paranormal since my mid teens, so why in 30 years have I never come across "Omegaverse" before? As with all genres, you have a baseline and then it can go from one extreme to other.....and in Omegaverse, there is a baseline and extremes (Google is your friend....) and this one seems to land in the fair to middling.
I certainly don't want to be telling anyone to suck eggs, but the basics of this 'verse are based around the Alpha, Beta, Omega of a shifter world, all the instincts but none of the shifting. There is still the stimulus of scents, bonding (bite and knotting) and the need of a mate, but it's not the gender that is critical, its your status - Alpha's still being dominant and omega's usually pliant and submissive. Parents can be either or both sexes - you still have a mother and father, but they can be male or female, thus mpreg is just par for the course, as is coming into season or estrus......with all the consequences!! The world is an everyday modern that makes the illogical plausible and left me ridiculously satisfied!!
Ethan is an omega, the eldest of 3, mother and father are Ben and Robert and he's had a fairly modest liberal upbringing in a small town suburb. A bonding contract has been set up for Ethan to mate with Antonio, an Alpha of some standing from a wealthy family in the City. Ethan is a gifted pianist and wants to study at the music conservatory, but as an omega, he has to be bonded to do this. Both men are sceptical of the mating, but on meeting, pheromones kick in, they scent and should be end of story.....but the Father's can't agree on the bonding contract due to a couple of clauses......so begins a journey against time to become bonded, but its not just the clause and school in the way, there is Mr Clarke....a predator of young Omega's.....
I became very invested in Ethan, he was bucking the trend of a typical omega. He was independent and wanted a future but with the support of his Alpha, as a true partnership, not as a submissive. Ethan's mother Ben, was all things - strong, supportive, loving, understanding and you can see where Ethan gets his strength. Antonio quickly comes to realise there is more to this bonding lark than first thought. I loved his musings and questioning himself. The scene with "Ned" made me smirk, even though I should've probably been more sympathetic!! Larissa, Antonio's friend, is also worth a mention for her no nonsense attitude!
There were a couple of things that did niggle.....Antonio' father signing the second contract a little too easily. Also Mr Clarke.....where is he?? His stalkerish arse just dropped off the page.....*shudder* And the ending, seriously?? although it was a strong HFN, I felt it was an abrupt fade to black...... after that monumental struggle to be together??? Why???? Next to cliffhangers, this is my most disliked ending......not even a sniff of an epilogue to help!!!
Overall, the first dip of the big toe in this new pool has been entertaining, enlightening and thoroughly enjoyable. I have just found out from the author's webpage that a second book is due out in the summer ( Jake, Ethan's alpha brother), so hopefully there will be a catch up then.
So, this came up on my recommendations page, I'm always on the lookout for shifter stories, so new author, liked the blurb and Peter pointered.......
To set the scene before I review, I have been reading paranormal since my mid teens, so why in 30 years have I never come across "Omegaverse" before? As with all genres, you have a baseline and then it can go from one extreme to other.....and in Omegaverse, there is a baseline and extremes (Google is your friend....) and this one seems to land in the fair to middling.
I certainly don't want to be telling anyone to suck eggs, but the basics of this 'verse are based around the Alpha, Beta, Omega of a shifter world, all the instincts but none of the shifting. There is still the stimulus of scents, bonding (bite and knotting) and the need of a mate, but it's not the gender that is critical, its your status - Alpha's still being dominant and omega's usually pliant and submissive. Parents can be either or both sexes - you still have a mother and father, but they can be male or female, thus mpreg is just par for the course, as is coming into season or estrus......with all the consequences!! The world is an everyday modern that makes the illogical plausible and left me ridiculously satisfied!!
Ethan is an omega, the eldest of 3, mother and father are Ben and Robert and he's had a fairly modest liberal upbringing in a small town suburb. A bonding contract has been set up for Ethan to mate with Antonio, an Alpha of some standing from a wealthy family in the City. Ethan is a gifted pianist and wants to study at the music conservatory, but as an omega, he has to be bonded to do this. Both men are sceptical of the mating, but on meeting, pheromones kick in, they scent and should be end of story.....but the Father's can't agree on the bonding contract due to a couple of clauses......so begins a journey against time to become bonded, but its not just the clause and school in the way, there is Mr Clarke....a predator of young Omega's.....
I became very invested in Ethan, he was bucking the trend of a typical omega. He was independent and wanted a future but with the support of his Alpha, as a true partnership, not as a submissive. Ethan's mother Ben, was all things - strong, supportive, loving, understanding and you can see where Ethan gets his strength. Antonio quickly comes to realise there is more to this bonding lark than first thought. I loved his musings and questioning himself. The scene with "Ned" made me smirk, even though I should've probably been more sympathetic!! Larissa, Antonio's friend, is also worth a mention for her no nonsense attitude!
There were a couple of things that did niggle.....Antonio' father signing the second contract a little too easily. Also Mr Clarke.....where is he?? His stalkerish arse just dropped off the page.....*shudder* And the ending, seriously?? although it was a strong HFN, I felt it was an abrupt fade to black...... after that monumental struggle to be together??? Why???? Next to cliffhangers, this is my most disliked ending......not even a sniff of an epilogue to help!!!
Overall, the first dip of the big toe in this new pool has been entertaining, enlightening and thoroughly enjoyable. I have just found out from the author's webpage that a second book is due out in the summer ( Jake, Ethan's alpha brother), so hopefully there will be a catch up then.
March 21, 2017
Arranged bonding of a sophisticated, Latino Alpha and a Jewish, country Omega runs into snags from a demanding patriarch and a rejected suitor
A quick read for a novel, this story has a nice range of sweet but intriguing, surprising, and entertaining scenes. The story centers on an arranged match between a city Alpha with a demanding, sophisticated, high-powered business family and a country omega with a loving, domestic family and a shadowy secret. The author starts with an intriguing and eventually dramatic introduction and then weaves scenes of past secrets and yearning dreams into the story of two separated would-be mates. I especially appreciated the depth of the supporting characters, from competitively friendly lawyers, demanding and over-protective fathers, wise and doting mothers, to conflicted music teachers.
I don't think I've read any other omegaverse piece with such nuance and depth. The Alpha-Beta-Omega dynamics are central to the story and potential relationships, but they are not overstated or overly used as explicit sizzle. (Outside of dreams, an Alpha knotting with a potential impregnation of the male omega is saved for the end. This is more a "will they or won't they" end up together and "which Alpha is right for the omega" story rather than a book of repeated, hard-core knotting. It's nice piece for those readers who like focus on plot and character as much or more than the heated Alpha/omega mpreg breeding scenes.)
Omegaverse (aka where everyone is an Alpha, Beta, or Omega, often non-shifter): setting where dominant Alphas can mate with usually more submissive omegas (of either gender), often focused on male pregnancy (mpreg) and/or heat/knotting
A quick read for a novel, this story has a nice range of sweet but intriguing, surprising, and entertaining scenes. The story centers on an arranged match between a city Alpha with a demanding, sophisticated, high-powered business family and a country omega with a loving, domestic family and a shadowy secret. The author starts with an intriguing and eventually dramatic introduction and then weaves scenes of past secrets and yearning dreams into the story of two separated would-be mates. I especially appreciated the depth of the supporting characters, from competitively friendly lawyers, demanding and over-protective fathers, wise and doting mothers, to conflicted music teachers.
I don't think I've read any other omegaverse piece with such nuance and depth. The Alpha-Beta-Omega dynamics are central to the story and potential relationships, but they are not overstated or overly used as explicit sizzle. (Outside of dreams, an Alpha knotting with a potential impregnation of the male omega is saved for the end. This is more a "will they or won't they" end up together and "which Alpha is right for the omega" story rather than a book of repeated, hard-core knotting. It's nice piece for those readers who like focus on plot and character as much or more than the heated Alpha/omega mpreg breeding scenes.)
Omegaverse (aka where everyone is an Alpha, Beta, or Omega, often non-shifter): setting where dominant Alphas can mate with usually more submissive omegas (of either gender), often focused on male pregnancy (mpreg) and/or heat/knotting
February 6, 2017
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Country Omega is set in an alternate earth universe where humans are separated by status, omega, beta, alpha. Ethan is an omega who goes to the city with the hopes of starting at the conservatory, and also to find a bonding mate. He meets Antonio, a saucy and sexy alpha, and they’re swept up into each other immediately. However, the contract Antonio’s father has drawn up is refused, and Ethan and his father head back to the small town Ethan is from. Except Ethan and Antonio can’t stop thinking about each other. And eventually they both decide that it’s all or nothing. Now Antonio and Ethan have to figure out a way to make sure they find their way back to one another.
This book started out extremely slow. I have to admit, part one DRAGGED, and it shouldn’t have, since that was supposed to be the part where we saw the blossoming attraction and hunger. But Ethan’s journey to the city was written in painstaking detail, and I just found myself asking why and who cares? A lot. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate that the author wanted to show us this world. But this wasn’t fantasy. It was supernatural at best. There were trains, and cellphones, and cars, and nothing that I haven’t seen before. So I don’t need Ethan to go on and on about the concrete, and the leather seats on the train, and on and on and on. Sometimes a little goes a long way, especially when I’m trying to be immersed in this world. Despite that, I stuck with it and finally Ethan and Antonio met. I don’t know why, but their chemistry, other than physically, just never really worked for me. I felt like they were both playing the part, rather than actually interested in each other. At least for Ethan that’s how I felt. (Later it’s revealed that there is a reason for this.) Anyway, there IS an undeniable physical attraction, and it became my quest to see it manifest as quickly as possible. Unfortunately that didn’t happen. There is a lot of kissing. A lot of touching, but not a whole lot of fucking. This book was 344 pages and about 20 of that is fucking. This wouldn’t have been an issue if this was a slow burn, but it wasn’t. The whole story takes place in like a week.
Part one and part two really dragged. Omg it was so long winded. There was like 10 pages of Antonio running. FFS. The author has a really long winded way of writing. So much repetition. So many italics. At least three on every page. Like she was trying to convince us that Ethan and Antonio really-really-really felt this way. It was as if she wanted the words themselves to give more feeling than what the story was actually portraying. If that makes any sense.
Part three is where the story picks up. This is where we go in a flash back kind of deal and we meet Mr. Clark. All I can say about this relationship is: CREEPY.
I'll admit, at first I liked it. There was an age difference, which I love, and Ethan’s innocence about the whole thing was endearing. But fucking fuck, it got creepy really fast. The whole relationship was based around them “scenting” each other, an intimate act that revolved around rubbing each other’s necks and noses etc. Except there’s more to it, and I won’t spoil it, but Mr. Clark was a creep. But at least something interesting happened, which is more than I can say for the Antonio/Ethan situation, so I wasn’t complaining. So moving right along. Ethan decides he doesn’t want Mr. Clark, but oh, will Antonio be able to get his dad to sign the contract? This is basically a really dull will he won’t he plot. And since we knew it would all work out in the end it became hard to sit and focus for 344 pages of nothing else but these two guys kissing and rubbing each other, with some overcharged pheromones and public displays of aggression. There was no climax. They never faced off with Mr. Clark. No one’s feathers were more than ruffled.
Overall, this was just “meh” for me. I didn’t hate it. The writing wasn’t bad, but at no point was I invested in the characters or the plot. Therefore, this gets 2.5 stars from me, rounded to a 2.
The Country Omega is set in an alternate earth universe where humans are separated by status, omega, beta, alpha. Ethan is an omega who goes to the city with the hopes of starting at the conservatory, and also to find a bonding mate. He meets Antonio, a saucy and sexy alpha, and they’re swept up into each other immediately. However, the contract Antonio’s father has drawn up is refused, and Ethan and his father head back to the small town Ethan is from. Except Ethan and Antonio can’t stop thinking about each other. And eventually they both decide that it’s all or nothing. Now Antonio and Ethan have to figure out a way to make sure they find their way back to one another.
This book started out extremely slow. I have to admit, part one DRAGGED, and it shouldn’t have, since that was supposed to be the part where we saw the blossoming attraction and hunger. But Ethan’s journey to the city was written in painstaking detail, and I just found myself asking why and who cares? A lot. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate that the author wanted to show us this world. But this wasn’t fantasy. It was supernatural at best. There were trains, and cellphones, and cars, and nothing that I haven’t seen before. So I don’t need Ethan to go on and on about the concrete, and the leather seats on the train, and on and on and on. Sometimes a little goes a long way, especially when I’m trying to be immersed in this world. Despite that, I stuck with it and finally Ethan and Antonio met. I don’t know why, but their chemistry, other than physically, just never really worked for me. I felt like they were both playing the part, rather than actually interested in each other. At least for Ethan that’s how I felt. (Later it’s revealed that there is a reason for this.) Anyway, there IS an undeniable physical attraction, and it became my quest to see it manifest as quickly as possible. Unfortunately that didn’t happen. There is a lot of kissing. A lot of touching, but not a whole lot of fucking. This book was 344 pages and about 20 of that is fucking. This wouldn’t have been an issue if this was a slow burn, but it wasn’t. The whole story takes place in like a week.
Part one and part two really dragged. Omg it was so long winded. There was like 10 pages of Antonio running. FFS. The author has a really long winded way of writing. So much repetition. So many italics. At least three on every page. Like she was trying to convince us that Ethan and Antonio really-really-really felt this way. It was as if she wanted the words themselves to give more feeling than what the story was actually portraying. If that makes any sense.
Part three is where the story picks up. This is where we go in a flash back kind of deal and we meet Mr. Clark. All I can say about this relationship is: CREEPY.
I'll admit, at first I liked it. There was an age difference, which I love, and Ethan’s innocence about the whole thing was endearing. But fucking fuck, it got creepy really fast. The whole relationship was based around them “scenting” each other, an intimate act that revolved around rubbing each other’s necks and noses etc. Except there’s more to it, and I won’t spoil it, but Mr. Clark was a creep. But at least something interesting happened, which is more than I can say for the Antonio/Ethan situation, so I wasn’t complaining. So moving right along. Ethan decides he doesn’t want Mr. Clark, but oh, will Antonio be able to get his dad to sign the contract? This is basically a really dull will he won’t he plot. And since we knew it would all work out in the end it became hard to sit and focus for 344 pages of nothing else but these two guys kissing and rubbing each other, with some overcharged pheromones and public displays of aggression. There was no climax. They never faced off with Mr. Clark. No one’s feathers were more than ruffled.
Overall, this was just “meh” for me. I didn’t hate it. The writing wasn’t bad, but at no point was I invested in the characters or the plot. Therefore, this gets 2.5 stars from me, rounded to a 2.
December 2, 2021
Plans for an arranged marriage between an alpha and omega fall apart after their parents disagree on the terms of the contract. Omegaverse almost always means you have to suspend disbelief around worldbuilding, but this was a bridge too far for me. The world is simultaneously exactly like our own (see the references to Adele, McDonald's, and Mike Tyson, among others) and not (lack of most modern technology), making it very hard to immerse yourself in any of the settings because it's never clear what type of world you should be imagining.
Neither MC has much of a personality, plus there's some weird "not like other girls" commentary by the alpha who falls for the omega because he has goals for his life, unlike every other empty-headed omega. But by far the worst part was that the omega MC is (CW: ) It's genuinely unclear whether the author realizes just how disturbing this scenario is.
Neither MC has much of a personality, plus there's some weird "not like other girls" commentary by the alpha who falls for the omega because he has goals for his life, unlike every other empty-headed omega. But by far the worst part was that the omega MC is (CW: ) It's genuinely unclear whether the author realizes just how disturbing this scenario is.
January 31, 2016
I really enjoyed this. I'm really wanting to know Ben and Robert's story, as well as Dimitrov's.
February 23, 2016
What a melodrama, which circled around a mating contract.
This romance had a really silly plot.
This romance had a really silly plot.
October 14, 2016
3.5 to 4 stars
Neither Omega Ethan Downing nor Alpha Antonio Valdez wanted a mate. But one look at each other and they agree to the bond. Too bad their parents who seemed so eager on the union fall out about the contract. Can the infatuated men find a way to stay together?
The Country Omega depicts a society where omegas are protected and subdued to the Alphas. Their main goal is to be at home and look after their children. But Ethan is a very talented pianist and wants to continue studying, and become a soloist. In order to do so, he needs to be bonded to an alpha, otherwise he won't be allowed into the conservatory. Besides, there is Alan, his sort of ex, who is decided to claim him as his own, regardless the fact that Ethan is not interested in him any more. When Ethan meets Antonio, he feels immediately attracted, and finds a similar response in the Alpha. But Ethan's overprotective father is decided to have his son treated fairly, and he disagrees with Antonio's father on the contract. From that moment, Antonio begins a race against time to convince both their parents to sign the contract, but that's not the only danger for the lovers, because Ethan's ex is wiling to do whatever to claim him.
Told from a bouncing point of view, we move from Ethan's to Antonio's minds, which gives us a great insight of both characters and how they view their love story. The narrative is smooth and the story engaging, as it steadily unfolds the mystery surrounding Alan and Ethan's relationship, thus keeping the reader intrigued. Both Antonio and Ethan are likeable, but so are the secondary characters which provide a really endearing background for the love story, both Ethan's loving parents and siblings in their chaotic home, and Antonio's moody family with their explosive Latino blood. It was really easy to get emotionally invested with both characters, and feel sad the story ends. I would love to find out about Ethan and Antonio's live together. I hope to get a glimpse at them in the next book of this series.
Entertaining.
Neither Omega Ethan Downing nor Alpha Antonio Valdez wanted a mate. But one look at each other and they agree to the bond. Too bad their parents who seemed so eager on the union fall out about the contract. Can the infatuated men find a way to stay together?
The Country Omega depicts a society where omegas are protected and subdued to the Alphas. Their main goal is to be at home and look after their children. But Ethan is a very talented pianist and wants to continue studying, and become a soloist. In order to do so, he needs to be bonded to an alpha, otherwise he won't be allowed into the conservatory. Besides, there is Alan, his sort of ex, who is decided to claim him as his own, regardless the fact that Ethan is not interested in him any more. When Ethan meets Antonio, he feels immediately attracted, and finds a similar response in the Alpha. But Ethan's overprotective father is decided to have his son treated fairly, and he disagrees with Antonio's father on the contract. From that moment, Antonio begins a race against time to convince both their parents to sign the contract, but that's not the only danger for the lovers, because Ethan's ex is wiling to do whatever to claim him.
Told from a bouncing point of view, we move from Ethan's to Antonio's minds, which gives us a great insight of both characters and how they view their love story. The narrative is smooth and the story engaging, as it steadily unfolds the mystery surrounding Alan and Ethan's relationship, thus keeping the reader intrigued. Both Antonio and Ethan are likeable, but so are the secondary characters which provide a really endearing background for the love story, both Ethan's loving parents and siblings in their chaotic home, and Antonio's moody family with their explosive Latino blood. It was really easy to get emotionally invested with both characters, and feel sad the story ends. I would love to find out about Ethan and Antonio's live together. I hope to get a glimpse at them in the next book of this series.
Entertaining.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2021
Enjoyed this!
This review comes on the heels of my reread. I can appreciate the language better on the second read, when I'm not galloping through the plot.
Love the description of music throughout, love the world building, with details of how society would be different with 6+ Gender/orientations!
Ethan and Antonio's home cultures are distinct, I enjoyed the little details of each. I really appreciated the "there are many ways to be a man" that came out with all the different characters, the show me don't tell me is strong with this one.
Any book I give 5⭐ is going to have high rereadability. Do recommend.
This review comes on the heels of my reread. I can appreciate the language better on the second read, when I'm not galloping through the plot.
Love the description of music throughout, love the world building, with details of how society would be different with 6+ Gender/orientations!
Ethan and Antonio's home cultures are distinct, I enjoyed the little details of each. I really appreciated the "there are many ways to be a man" that came out with all the different characters, the show me don't tell me is strong with this one.
Any book I give 5⭐ is going to have high rereadability. Do recommend.
July 21, 2017
This was a fascinating look at alpha/omega dynamics and the bonding experience. Ethan is strong and personable while Antonio is caught in a situation he has been avoiding his entire life. Throw in some parents who have their own agendas and you run into some enjoyable and tension filled encounters. Of course there has to be other potential mates and dishonest alphas to make the story even more enjoyable. You'll love the scenes with the lawyer and the 'dates' Antonio endures. Chuckles, smiles and a HEA you'll totally enjoy!
March 21, 2021
Subtle, but complex
This book was, in many ways, subtle, but also surprisingly, unexpectedly complex. It is the story of the mating of an omega from the country, Ethan, and an alpha from the city, Antonio, but it is far more than that. The author has created a world very different from ours, with manners and customs that you pick up as you read. Well written, unusual and captivating. And I won’t say more than that, because anything further would be spoilers. This is the first time I have read this author, but it won’t be the last.
This book was, in many ways, subtle, but also surprisingly, unexpectedly complex. It is the story of the mating of an omega from the country, Ethan, and an alpha from the city, Antonio, but it is far more than that. The author has created a world very different from ours, with manners and customs that you pick up as you read. Well written, unusual and captivating. And I won’t say more than that, because anything further would be spoilers. This is the first time I have read this author, but it won’t be the last.
November 1, 2020
Enjoyable read of an omegaverse storyline with a difference. Adjusting to an alternative universe gifted ethan is assisted by his parents to escape a workd where he and his talents woukd be buried in what the workd expects of him. That is before he meets Antonio and man it is love, lust, fated mates at first sight but they have to fight to be together. Worth the read. 3.5 from me
March 23, 2023
I loved this book and couldn't put it down, which was bad for sleeping! It was actually suspenseful and had me on the edge of my seat. The main character had accidently scented his teacher which was a no no and unfortunately his teacher took advantage of it (so trigger warning here). His parents were trying really hard to get him out of this situation.
January 11, 2018
I really loved the first half of this book, by I slowly lost interested towards the second half, only to have it regained again by the end. Overall it was very enjoyable. I will write a more coherent review later when I review the book. I forgot to add a review after reading it!
November 18, 2022
Good but...
I very much enjoyed the story and the characters, however the abrupt sudden ending was disappointing. It left up in the air possibilities unexplored and unresolved which very much needed to be wrapped up.
I very much enjoyed the story and the characters, however the abrupt sudden ending was disappointing. It left up in the air possibilities unexplored and unresolved which very much needed to be wrapped up.
August 10, 2016
This is a very lengthy book was quite a surprise. I put it on and returned it from my Kindle Unlimited ten book limit collection several times. Finally I just meant to read a few pages for the future before I returned it again in exchange for another book I thought I wanted to read more. But I couldn't stop reading this book. Luckily it was the weekend and as I ran errands and did household chores I listened to this fascinating story.
I didn't even realize that it was by a favourite author of mine. Penelope Rivers did an amazing job of world building. The world is full of Alphas, Omegas, and Betas - just not Shifters - though their behaviors bear some similarities such as the need to bond. The Omegas once again are treated like second class citizens. With their fathers being in charge of of their lives. But even in the the richer families the Patriarch is in control of everything, including their Alpha sons and who they marry.
This is also a tale of Country/Small town life versus City life. In the City, Omegas are never allowed to go out unescorted by an Alpha or Beta or it must be a group of adult Omegas. While in the Country/Small towns, more rural locations where there was a great sense of community - the Omegas had a great deal more freedom, especially up until the beginning of their first estrus or first heat.
At a certain age all young men and women go into the Bonding Pool, unless two Bond partners find each other (Still they need their parents' consent). Some people put off going into the Pool in order to work or in the case of thirty year old Alpha Antonio Valdez because he didn't want a simpering, needy, baby factory Omega who expected Antonio to entertain him or her, to be their everything. Just the thought of accepting such an Omega kept him in the Bonding Pool for several years. His father is furious. He wants his son Bonded and soon with grandchildren. But that was not Antonio's plan. He kept finding something wrong with each Omega, when his father invited their family to discuss Bonding. Since Bonding officially meant the signing of a Contract by the Fathers.
Ethan Downing is a twenty year old Pianist and an Omega. He has the chance to be a Concert Pianist. He's been practicing since he could sit on his piano playing parent's lap. Ethan won't be allowed to attend the Music Conservatory for another year unless he's Bonded to an Alpha. Which is how this book opens with Ethan and his father, Robert Downing on a train on their way to visit the very hospitable Valdez parents. He is extremely nervous, but pushes through to speak with the tall handsome Hispanic man. The moody darkish atmosphere of the beautiful large Valdez apartment is so oppressive that the newly introduced couple is escorted out to the balcony while their fathers get down to business of reviewing the Bonding Contracts. Their chaperone leaves them alone leading to some activity that would not have been allowed if they had been properly supervised. So when Ethan's father abruptly ends the meeting with Antonio's father, taking Ethan back home, Antonio is deeply upset. Ethan is the first Omega that he believes he could marry / Bond with.
He is angry that his father told the Downing parents somethings quite different from what was in fact in the Bonding Contract.
But as far as Ethan is concerned Antonio is no better than his father, if he can't do anything about the the terrible Contract that he's so glad his father refused to sign. What kind of Bond mate would he have made? But down deep Ethan is already missing Antonio. And Antonio's getting drunk to finally pass out, only to experience sleep with dreams filled with his "almost" gorgeous talented Omega. Returning home unBonded is not what Ethan or his parents had envisioned. His unBonded status opens up a Pandora's Box full of unwanted memories, better forgotten activities, secrets, an unrequited possessive angry Alpha, broken trust, creeper behaviors, unmonitored Omegas, and loss innocence.
Ethan has to learn to trust his parents. To stop keeping them in the dark about very important matters. To believe that they have his best interests at heart, especially when he doubts them the most. There are some very important characters introduced in this first book of the Downing trilogy: the Downing siblings, Valdez parents, a very strict Russian piano teacher, band & high school instructor, the Downing parents, visiting Omegas, and a stubborn brooding younger Valdez Alpha.
This was a very well written book. Full of action, suspense, love, longing, loneliness, recalcitrance, arrogance, ignorance, determination, creeper, scenting, narcissism, estrus, piano playing, second class citizens, protection, and loopholes. The only thing I did not like was that the Omega parent was called Mom regardless of his or her gender. I've never liked it when a man is called Mom or referred to as the Mother. I prefer Carrier or Bearer and the parent then referred to as Dad or Papa or Pops or Father. Also I am not happy that the second book in the series will be a MF romance. Otherwise this has become one of my favourite books.
I didn't even realize that it was by a favourite author of mine. Penelope Rivers did an amazing job of world building. The world is full of Alphas, Omegas, and Betas - just not Shifters - though their behaviors bear some similarities such as the need to bond. The Omegas once again are treated like second class citizens. With their fathers being in charge of of their lives. But even in the the richer families the Patriarch is in control of everything, including their Alpha sons and who they marry.
This is also a tale of Country/Small town life versus City life. In the City, Omegas are never allowed to go out unescorted by an Alpha or Beta or it must be a group of adult Omegas. While in the Country/Small towns, more rural locations where there was a great sense of community - the Omegas had a great deal more freedom, especially up until the beginning of their first estrus or first heat.
At a certain age all young men and women go into the Bonding Pool, unless two Bond partners find each other (Still they need their parents' consent). Some people put off going into the Pool in order to work or in the case of thirty year old Alpha Antonio Valdez because he didn't want a simpering, needy, baby factory Omega who expected Antonio to entertain him or her, to be their everything. Just the thought of accepting such an Omega kept him in the Bonding Pool for several years. His father is furious. He wants his son Bonded and soon with grandchildren. But that was not Antonio's plan. He kept finding something wrong with each Omega, when his father invited their family to discuss Bonding. Since Bonding officially meant the signing of a Contract by the Fathers.
Ethan Downing is a twenty year old Pianist and an Omega. He has the chance to be a Concert Pianist. He's been practicing since he could sit on his piano playing parent's lap. Ethan won't be allowed to attend the Music Conservatory for another year unless he's Bonded to an Alpha. Which is how this book opens with Ethan and his father, Robert Downing on a train on their way to visit the very hospitable Valdez parents. He is extremely nervous, but pushes through to speak with the tall handsome Hispanic man. The moody darkish atmosphere of the beautiful large Valdez apartment is so oppressive that the newly introduced couple is escorted out to the balcony while their fathers get down to business of reviewing the Bonding Contracts. Their chaperone leaves them alone leading to some activity that would not have been allowed if they had been properly supervised. So when Ethan's father abruptly ends the meeting with Antonio's father, taking Ethan back home, Antonio is deeply upset. Ethan is the first Omega that he believes he could marry / Bond with.
He is angry that his father told the Downing parents somethings quite different from what was in fact in the Bonding Contract.
But as far as Ethan is concerned Antonio is no better than his father, if he can't do anything about the the terrible Contract that he's so glad his father refused to sign. What kind of Bond mate would he have made? But down deep Ethan is already missing Antonio. And Antonio's getting drunk to finally pass out, only to experience sleep with dreams filled with his "almost" gorgeous talented Omega. Returning home unBonded is not what Ethan or his parents had envisioned. His unBonded status opens up a Pandora's Box full of unwanted memories, better forgotten activities, secrets, an unrequited possessive angry Alpha, broken trust, creeper behaviors, unmonitored Omegas, and loss innocence.
Ethan has to learn to trust his parents. To stop keeping them in the dark about very important matters. To believe that they have his best interests at heart, especially when he doubts them the most. There are some very important characters introduced in this first book of the Downing trilogy: the Downing siblings, Valdez parents, a very strict Russian piano teacher, band & high school instructor, the Downing parents, visiting Omegas, and a stubborn brooding younger Valdez Alpha.
This was a very well written book. Full of action, suspense, love, longing, loneliness, recalcitrance, arrogance, ignorance, determination, creeper, scenting, narcissism, estrus, piano playing, second class citizens, protection, and loopholes. The only thing I did not like was that the Omega parent was called Mom regardless of his or her gender. I've never liked it when a man is called Mom or referred to as the Mother. I prefer Carrier or Bearer and the parent then referred to as Dad or Papa or Pops or Father. Also I am not happy that the second book in the series will be a MF romance. Otherwise this has become one of my favourite books.
August 20, 2020
I liked every part of this book
Thanks so much
😁😁😁
Thanks so much
😁😁😁
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2022
I liked this story.
February 29, 2024
I really enjoyed reading The Country Omega, and I'd highly recommend checking it out!
December 3, 2016
**I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review for the MMRG Don’t Buy My Love Program**
3 stars
The Country Omega is the story of Ethan Downing, an omega looking for an alpha mate, for undisclosed reasons that have nothing to do with love, and Antonio Valdez, an alpha being threatened with being disowned if he does not settle down and produce an heir. When the two meet for the first time, there is an instant attraction that neither had been anticipating, but is curtailed by their fathers who come to disagree upon some particulars of the match. To be together, they must overcome their bullheaded parents and the alpha threatening to take Ethan as his own.
Overall, the book was entertaining and kept my attention, but it wasn’t anything special. I am familiar with alpha/omega books and this one was slightly too archaic in its views for my taste. Omega’s need to be accompanied by beta’s or alphas at all times when in public for fear of getting attacked. It felt like victim blaming and the last thing that I want to do when losing myself in a book is having the sexism that is present in real life also manifest itself in the story’s world. It was nice to see that Ethan was fighting against that mold, but it wasn’t present enough;
Even with these frustrations, I loved Ethan and Antonio. They had stereotypical omega and alpha personalities and traits, which I love. Also, from the beginning, the story felt a lot like some Sterek fanfictions that I have read so for anyone who is into that particular fandom, The Country Omega is a book they should check out.
By the end I found myself rooting for them to get together and appreciated that when they finally do have sex, it makes sense to the story and isn’t just gratuitous for the reader. There aren’t pages upon pages of overdone sex, something I have started to get annoyed by in books.
Overall, I did like this book. It wasn’t spectacular, but in a pinch, it’s cute and quick and different enough to keep the reader satisfied.
Final notes:
- It is in third person, with alternating perspectives
- There is a moment towards the end were Ethan is attacked (in terms of this book, he is sexually assaulted)
3 stars
The Country Omega is the story of Ethan Downing, an omega looking for an alpha mate, for undisclosed reasons that have nothing to do with love, and Antonio Valdez, an alpha being threatened with being disowned if he does not settle down and produce an heir. When the two meet for the first time, there is an instant attraction that neither had been anticipating, but is curtailed by their fathers who come to disagree upon some particulars of the match. To be together, they must overcome their bullheaded parents and the alpha threatening to take Ethan as his own.
Overall, the book was entertaining and kept my attention, but it wasn’t anything special. I am familiar with alpha/omega books and this one was slightly too archaic in its views for my taste. Omega’s need to be accompanied by beta’s or alphas at all times when in public for fear of getting attacked. It felt like victim blaming and the last thing that I want to do when losing myself in a book is having the sexism that is present in real life also manifest itself in the story’s world. It was nice to see that Ethan was fighting against that mold, but it wasn’t present enough;
Even with these frustrations, I loved Ethan and Antonio. They had stereotypical omega and alpha personalities and traits, which I love. Also, from the beginning, the story felt a lot like some Sterek fanfictions that I have read so for anyone who is into that particular fandom, The Country Omega is a book they should check out.
By the end I found myself rooting for them to get together and appreciated that when they finally do have sex, it makes sense to the story and isn’t just gratuitous for the reader. There aren’t pages upon pages of overdone sex, something I have started to get annoyed by in books.
Overall, I did like this book. It wasn’t spectacular, but in a pinch, it’s cute and quick and different enough to keep the reader satisfied.
Final notes:
- It is in third person, with alternating perspectives
- There is a moment towards the end were Ethan is attacked (in terms of this book, he is sexually assaulted)
November 27, 2016
The Country Omega is the first book in a three-part series set in the “Omegaverse”. It is a non-shifter, paranormal world in which mpreg is a possibility. A free copy of this book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I opted to read and review this book because I was intrigued by the concept of a non-shifter world with the hierarchy and rules of shifters. I finished reading the book because I found myself in a constant flux as to whether the ending would be what I was hoping for the main characters.
Ethan is an Omega who lives in a suburban town where Omegas are free to go from place to place unescorted and without fear. Antoine, an Alpha, lives in the city and no Omega goes anywhere unescorted unless he or she is traveling in a group. Neither of these young men desire bonding as they each have career and life aspirations which are priority. Both have social obligations to conform to the social rules governing their stations in life. They are brought together as the perfect bond by their negotiating fathers. Then everyone changes their mind. Ethan and Antoine cannot wait to start their new life as a couple. The fathers, unable to reach a contractual agreement, refuse to compromise and terminate the decision to bond.
This is a well written story with a fully developed plot which gives you the detailed personal and social makeup of each main character. There is a lot of detail but nothing is extraneous. The supporting back stories enhance and provide support so there are no lost moments for the reader as Antoine and Ethan’s story unfolds and races to it’s dramatic ending.
There is a negative side to the way this book is written, however. In the instance where the Omega is male, he is called mother when he becomes a parent. I found it distasteful to feminize a male character and thought perhaps the author could take some cues from the shifter world where mpreg is possible. I was halfway through the book before I realized the “mothers” in this story were men. By contrast, there were female Alpha characters in this story and no one addressed them with masculine titles. Further, the abusive behavior of one of the Alphas in this universe had no consequence and that is so contrary to the paranormal (shifter) hierarchy of things.
Overall however, I did enjoy the book and I must admit, I was pleasantly surprised to the extent I fully intend to read the remainder of the series.
I opted to read and review this book because I was intrigued by the concept of a non-shifter world with the hierarchy and rules of shifters. I finished reading the book because I found myself in a constant flux as to whether the ending would be what I was hoping for the main characters.
Ethan is an Omega who lives in a suburban town where Omegas are free to go from place to place unescorted and without fear. Antoine, an Alpha, lives in the city and no Omega goes anywhere unescorted unless he or she is traveling in a group. Neither of these young men desire bonding as they each have career and life aspirations which are priority. Both have social obligations to conform to the social rules governing their stations in life. They are brought together as the perfect bond by their negotiating fathers. Then everyone changes their mind. Ethan and Antoine cannot wait to start their new life as a couple. The fathers, unable to reach a contractual agreement, refuse to compromise and terminate the decision to bond.
This is a well written story with a fully developed plot which gives you the detailed personal and social makeup of each main character. There is a lot of detail but nothing is extraneous. The supporting back stories enhance and provide support so there are no lost moments for the reader as Antoine and Ethan’s story unfolds and races to it’s dramatic ending.
There is a negative side to the way this book is written, however. In the instance where the Omega is male, he is called mother when he becomes a parent. I found it distasteful to feminize a male character and thought perhaps the author could take some cues from the shifter world where mpreg is possible. I was halfway through the book before I realized the “mothers” in this story were men. By contrast, there were female Alpha characters in this story and no one addressed them with masculine titles. Further, the abusive behavior of one of the Alphas in this universe had no consequence and that is so contrary to the paranormal (shifter) hierarchy of things.
Overall however, I did enjoy the book and I must admit, I was pleasantly surprised to the extent I fully intend to read the remainder of the series.
April 29, 2016
I read an advance copy of The Country Omega, by Penelope Peters and found it to be a comfortable, very enjoyable romance.
Set in an alternative universe where the genders are not just male and female, but also separated into dominant alphas, neutral betas, and submissive omegas, the main character, Ethan Downing, is a talented pianist who is not planning on giving up his dreams of attending the music conservatory, or of performing in public. Unfortunately for Ethan, he is an omega. This means that he is legally and culturally unable to continue school unless he is bonded to an alpha. In the city omegas are not able to go out in public at all unless they are accompanied by a beta or alpha to protect them.
Antonio Valdez is an alpha, only child to a wealthy family, whose father wants an heir. Antonio is reluctanct to tie himself down to an uninteresting family life. When he meets Ethan, he discovers perhaps the only (to him) interesting omega, and certainly the only one with whom he wishes to bond.
Ethan, of course, has a secret, and the conservatory is not the only reason why he needs to bond. But is Antonio right for him? Or is Ethan using Antonio to escape to the life he has always dreamed of? Is Antonio falling for Ethan as a person? Or is it biology taking center stage?
The characters are interesting and believable, if a touch standard for a romance. You will not find the "forced against their will into a rape fantasy" trope in this story, although there are explicit sex scenes. This is not a book for teen or young readers.
Because it is set in an Omegaverse AU, some items - males bearing children, for example, might be confusing at times, although I think the author does add those very well, giving explanations where necessary. Both leads are thoughtful characters, and well planned out, flaws and all. Supporting characters are also interesting, and leave the reader wanting to know their stories. The world building and description draw the reader further into the story. They create a wonderful, engaging texture, encouraging the reader to root for the young lovers to not only bond, but also for them to work toward everything they want in life.
I encourage anyone who enjoys a good romance to read The Country Omega.
Set in an alternative universe where the genders are not just male and female, but also separated into dominant alphas, neutral betas, and submissive omegas, the main character, Ethan Downing, is a talented pianist who is not planning on giving up his dreams of attending the music conservatory, or of performing in public. Unfortunately for Ethan, he is an omega. This means that he is legally and culturally unable to continue school unless he is bonded to an alpha. In the city omegas are not able to go out in public at all unless they are accompanied by a beta or alpha to protect them.
Antonio Valdez is an alpha, only child to a wealthy family, whose father wants an heir. Antonio is reluctanct to tie himself down to an uninteresting family life. When he meets Ethan, he discovers perhaps the only (to him) interesting omega, and certainly the only one with whom he wishes to bond.
Ethan, of course, has a secret, and the conservatory is not the only reason why he needs to bond. But is Antonio right for him? Or is Ethan using Antonio to escape to the life he has always dreamed of? Is Antonio falling for Ethan as a person? Or is it biology taking center stage?
The characters are interesting and believable, if a touch standard for a romance. You will not find the "forced against their will into a rape fantasy" trope in this story, although there are explicit sex scenes. This is not a book for teen or young readers.
Because it is set in an Omegaverse AU, some items - males bearing children, for example, might be confusing at times, although I think the author does add those very well, giving explanations where necessary. Both leads are thoughtful characters, and well planned out, flaws and all. Supporting characters are also interesting, and leave the reader wanting to know their stories. The world building and description draw the reader further into the story. They create a wonderful, engaging texture, encouraging the reader to root for the young lovers to not only bond, but also for them to work toward everything they want in life.
I encourage anyone who enjoys a good romance to read The Country Omega.
February 27, 2016
I simultaneously love and hate when I read a book like this - love it because it's a true jam (and debut at that) and hate it because it sets a bar too high for those that come after it...
This book revolves around Ethan and Antonio and is set in an alternative world where everyone are werewolves, but as is my understanding they don't shift - they just have heightened senses and of course there are alphas, betas and omegas. Now,that alternative world is exactly like ours in terms of well,everything...someone might say that this is quite unimaginative of author,but I think this is quite ingenious - why bother with world-building when we have one perfectly fine surrounding us. And I, for one, loved reading modern (and not so modern) references,like Adele, because I'm familiar with them, and thus, without bothering to understand how everything works, I could let myself simply enjoy.
I must say that this book is not for everyone. If your thing are angsty, fast-paced, dramatic books with multiple sex scenes (which is not to say that there is no sex here,it's just that they had an actual purpose as opposed to sheer eroticism), I truly don't know if you're going to enjoy this one. If I am to describe the atmosphere here,I'd say it's like a peaceful sea with occasional waves,and more often than not those are the books I find myself most engrossed in.
The main protagonists were extremely well developed, three-dimensional characters,especially Ethan, and supporting characters,as well. And the writing...I don't know,I'm certainly not an expert, but this is probably what talent looks like. I smelled, I heard, I felt while reading and there's only one author in this genre that can put me in a, I'll say trance (but of a different kind), like Ms. Peters put me here. She has a such a way with words, that somewhere along the road I found myself reading not only because of Ethan and Antonio, but because of the words itself.
Not to drag anymore, I highly recommend this one...
This book revolves around Ethan and Antonio and is set in an alternative world where everyone are werewolves, but as is my understanding they don't shift - they just have heightened senses and of course there are alphas, betas and omegas. Now,that alternative world is exactly like ours in terms of well,everything...someone might say that this is quite unimaginative of author,but I think this is quite ingenious - why bother with world-building when we have one perfectly fine surrounding us. And I, for one, loved reading modern (and not so modern) references,like Adele, because I'm familiar with them, and thus, without bothering to understand how everything works, I could let myself simply enjoy.
I must say that this book is not for everyone. If your thing are angsty, fast-paced, dramatic books with multiple sex scenes (which is not to say that there is no sex here,it's just that they had an actual purpose as opposed to sheer eroticism), I truly don't know if you're going to enjoy this one. If I am to describe the atmosphere here,I'd say it's like a peaceful sea with occasional waves,and more often than not those are the books I find myself most engrossed in.
The main protagonists were extremely well developed, three-dimensional characters,especially Ethan, and supporting characters,as well. And the writing...I don't know,I'm certainly not an expert, but this is probably what talent looks like. I smelled, I heard, I felt while reading and there's only one author in this genre that can put me in a, I'll say trance (but of a different kind), like Ms. Peters put me here. She has a such a way with words, that somewhere along the road I found myself reading not only because of Ethan and Antonio, but because of the words itself.
Not to drag anymore, I highly recommend this one...
December 11, 2016
As a disclaimer, I received this book for free as part of the Don't Buy My Love program in exchange for an honest review.
The book starts out with an omega named Ethan mentally preparing himself for a marriage interview with an alpha Antonio. Their parents have an argument and the alpha-omega pair work together hoping to eventually marry before conflict threatens to split them apart and ruin Ethan.
The structure was fine; it doesn't take much to figure out the rules in this omega universe. There was a conflict filled with love and strife. The protagonists act like they really care for each other. The ending ties up enough loose ends. The book takes care of all the basic things I would expect from a romance novel. It doesn't do the best job in going a layer deeper.
If you're hoping for a book where there is a nice slow buildup to the relationship (like I was), go elsewhere. There is no slowly falling in love. It's very much like Romeo and Juliet when the two protagonists have one conversation and suddenly they feel like they are ready for marriage and everyone either throws their support or is opposed to it (for all the wrong reasons might I add).
Then there were a couple other issues I found but this automatic chemistry worth marriage is the big one.
Overall, the book's Romeo and Juliet makes it feel like just another romance novel. The book checks all the basic boxes but...if you're looking for something new this probably isn't the book for you. The plot is somewhat dramatic and the omega' s family seem just as innocent to how their own omegaverse works. It's something I would advise to read if you were an airplane but not if you were looking for something memorable.
To sum up, it's not bad but it's not great.
The book starts out with an omega named Ethan mentally preparing himself for a marriage interview with an alpha Antonio. Their parents have an argument and the alpha-omega pair work together hoping to eventually marry before conflict threatens to split them apart and ruin Ethan.
The structure was fine; it doesn't take much to figure out the rules in this omega universe. There was a conflict filled with love and strife. The protagonists act like they really care for each other. The ending ties up enough loose ends. The book takes care of all the basic things I would expect from a romance novel. It doesn't do the best job in going a layer deeper.
If you're hoping for a book where there is a nice slow buildup to the relationship (like I was), go elsewhere. There is no slowly falling in love. It's very much like Romeo and Juliet when the two protagonists have one conversation and suddenly they feel like they are ready for marriage and everyone either throws their support or is opposed to it (for all the wrong reasons might I add).
Then there were a couple other issues I found but this automatic chemistry worth marriage is the big one.
Overall, the book's Romeo and Juliet makes it feel like just another romance novel. The book checks all the basic boxes but...if you're looking for something new this probably isn't the book for you. The plot is somewhat dramatic and the omega' s family seem just as innocent to how their own omegaverse works. It's something I would advise to read if you were an airplane but not if you were looking for something memorable.
To sum up, it's not bad but it's not great.
January 23, 2016
I read an advanced copy of this book, and I simply devoured it.
This is set in the Omegaverse, a world in which people has a secondary gender; alpha, omega or beta. This secondary gender has a deep effect in what you are allowed or not allowed to do because omegas are generally seen as weak and in need of the protection of an alpha.
This story begins when omega Ethan Downing is travelling with his father to meet his future mate, alpha Antonio Valdez, but he's not doing this for the usual reasons: he has been accepted into a Music Conservatory, and to be able to assist, he needs to be bonded. Ethan only wish is to become a pianist, and travel the world offering his music, and this is the reason why he has finally accepted the need to bond.
But there are more in this that what we thought, and soon problems arise when their fathers can't arrive to an understanding regarding the contract. Ethan's hopes are about to be crushed, and to make matters worst, he and his intended really fall for each other at that first meeting.
Will they manage to overcome the obstacles their fathers find to their match? And which are the others reasons that force Ethan to get out of town, why the secrecy? Who really is Alan?
I don't want to spoil this story for you, so I keep the rest of the plot to myself, but I can't recommend this book more. It's a wonderful romance, with full constructed, lovely characters. Not only Ethan and Antonio but the secondary ones, too. You'll find yourself wanting to know more about them; in my case, I'm dying to know Ethan's parents story and how Dimitrov is mixed into it.
So, if you enjoy romance, this is, without a doubt, a book for you.
This is set in the Omegaverse, a world in which people has a secondary gender; alpha, omega or beta. This secondary gender has a deep effect in what you are allowed or not allowed to do because omegas are generally seen as weak and in need of the protection of an alpha.
This story begins when omega Ethan Downing is travelling with his father to meet his future mate, alpha Antonio Valdez, but he's not doing this for the usual reasons: he has been accepted into a Music Conservatory, and to be able to assist, he needs to be bonded. Ethan only wish is to become a pianist, and travel the world offering his music, and this is the reason why he has finally accepted the need to bond.
But there are more in this that what we thought, and soon problems arise when their fathers can't arrive to an understanding regarding the contract. Ethan's hopes are about to be crushed, and to make matters worst, he and his intended really fall for each other at that first meeting.
Will they manage to overcome the obstacles their fathers find to their match? And which are the others reasons that force Ethan to get out of town, why the secrecy? Who really is Alan?
I don't want to spoil this story for you, so I keep the rest of the plot to myself, but I can't recommend this book more. It's a wonderful romance, with full constructed, lovely characters. Not only Ethan and Antonio but the secondary ones, too. You'll find yourself wanting to know more about them; in my case, I'm dying to know Ethan's parents story and how Dimitrov is mixed into it.
So, if you enjoy romance, this is, without a doubt, a book for you.
June 24, 2016
I liked this book. I find stories about alternative worlds to be exciting. They’re not necessarily the future or the past, just…different. I was already somewhat aware of what I would be getting when I signed on for The Country Omega because I’d previously read Penelope Peters’ other book, The
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Omega Nanny. In this world, the people are divided up three ways…Alphas, Betas, and Omegas. Alphas are exactly what they always are. They’re powerful, and they protect their Omegas with everything they have. Betas are neutral, and Omegas are to be protected. They tend to be meeker, and they’re the ones who bear children. Some may think this all sounds sexist, but it really isn’t. It works. Penelope Peters has created the Omegaverse so well, you don’t even really have that thought (at least I didn’t).
I fell for Ethan and Antonio right away. Ethan’s determination coupled with Antonio’s reluctance to bond gave them a chemistry that felt real. I also love a good love at first sight story. The way they looked at each other when they first met, and the way they were able to laugh a little at each other’s clumsiness made me smile. When Antonio takes and begins to caress Ethan’s hand I got a chill up my spine, and when they moved to the edge of the balcony out of sight of their fathers and had their first kiss? I swooned. It was all so romantic!
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Omega Nanny. In this world, the people are divided up three ways…Alphas, Betas, and Omegas. Alphas are exactly what they always are. They’re powerful, and they protect their Omegas with everything they have. Betas are neutral, and Omegas are to be protected. They tend to be meeker, and they’re the ones who bear children. Some may think this all sounds sexist, but it really isn’t. It works. Penelope Peters has created the Omegaverse so well, you don’t even really have that thought (at least I didn’t).
I fell for Ethan and Antonio right away. Ethan’s determination coupled with Antonio’s reluctance to bond gave them a chemistry that felt real. I also love a good love at first sight story. The way they looked at each other when they first met, and the way they were able to laugh a little at each other’s clumsiness made me smile. When Antonio takes and begins to caress Ethan’s hand I got a chill up my spine, and when they moved to the edge of the balcony out of sight of their fathers and had their first kiss? I swooned. It was all so romantic!
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
June 29, 2016
Okay, others have mentioned why they didn't like this book. But let me tell you why I like the book.
The characters have depth, and a backstory. Omega Ethan's is shown in extended backflashes. There is something in the past that borders on child abuse, but is mostly manipulation and harassment. Also it took place when Ethan was 16, the age of consent in this world for omegas.
I don't get enough of Alpha Antonio's history, which is too bad since he seems atypical for his world. Or his parents' story. But I like the bits of Ethan's parents past that are revealed at the end. And I REALLY love Ethan's Mom.
Things are shown through action or dialogue in this book. Not fed piece by piece to you, so you need to pay attention. Another plus.
One thing you must to keep in mind when reading this book, is that IS an alternate universe. There are some biological imperatives that factor heavily into why the characters act as they do. It can make for frustrating reading, but is part of the story.
The world is a bit of a mystery. You're not told outright where, or when the story takes place. It has the feel of early 20th century England (trains and small towns) , but is seems to be contemporary US (cellphones and former Soviets). And there are contracts and bondings rather than marriages. Another interesting thing about the book that the reader must decipher.
So all in all, I give it a healthy 4 stars. I'd give it more, but the ending was a bit abrupt. Maybe to lead into the next book?
The characters have depth, and a backstory. Omega Ethan's is shown in extended backflashes. There is something in the past that borders on child abuse, but is mostly manipulation and harassment. Also it took place when Ethan was 16, the age of consent in this world for omegas.
I don't get enough of Alpha Antonio's history, which is too bad since he seems atypical for his world. Or his parents' story. But I like the bits of Ethan's parents past that are revealed at the end. And I REALLY love Ethan's Mom.
Things are shown through action or dialogue in this book. Not fed piece by piece to you, so you need to pay attention. Another plus.
One thing you must to keep in mind when reading this book, is that IS an alternate universe. There are some biological imperatives that factor heavily into why the characters act as they do. It can make for frustrating reading, but is part of the story.
The world is a bit of a mystery. You're not told outright where, or when the story takes place. It has the feel of early 20th century England (trains and small towns) , but is seems to be contemporary US (cellphones and former Soviets). And there are contracts and bondings rather than marriages. Another interesting thing about the book that the reader must decipher.
So all in all, I give it a healthy 4 stars. I'd give it more, but the ending was a bit abrupt. Maybe to lead into the next book?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2016
Ethan's time is almost up and soon he'll be mated to a horrible person. Someone whom he thought was the one. But he learned that he wasn't the person he pretended to be. He was a manipulative predator. Someone who doesn't take No for answer.
Ethan is an Omega and lives in a small town. A town where is his ex-lover announced their engagement without permission of his parents. Now they are on a strict time table. Ethan has to find a new Alpha, be claimed before his heat strikes. An Alpha who won't make Ethan become a home husband. A baby maker. Ethan may be a Omega, but he as dreams and aspirations! He has to be claimed. Omegas don't have rights, not like Alphas. They become their property.
Ethan doesn't want an Alpha, but he has no other choice. His father thinks he found a good one for him. Reluctantly, Ethan goes to met this Alpha.
Antonio doesn't want an Omega. All they want is to roll over and turn their brains off. He wants a partner who is intelligent. Who can hold a conversation.
Then they meet one another and the sparks fly. Their assumptions of one another were completely off. But now they have to fight to keep one another. Deadlines are coming quickly.
I really liked the chemistry between them. I appreciated that Ethan was a headstrong Omega. He knew what he wanted and was determined to get there. I loved that his parents were so accepting and supporting. Even his mentor had his back.
Ethan is an Omega and lives in a small town. A town where is his ex-lover announced their engagement without permission of his parents. Now they are on a strict time table. Ethan has to find a new Alpha, be claimed before his heat strikes. An Alpha who won't make Ethan become a home husband. A baby maker. Ethan may be a Omega, but he as dreams and aspirations! He has to be claimed. Omegas don't have rights, not like Alphas. They become their property.
Ethan doesn't want an Alpha, but he has no other choice. His father thinks he found a good one for him. Reluctantly, Ethan goes to met this Alpha.
Antonio doesn't want an Omega. All they want is to roll over and turn their brains off. He wants a partner who is intelligent. Who can hold a conversation.
Then they meet one another and the sparks fly. Their assumptions of one another were completely off. But now they have to fight to keep one another. Deadlines are coming quickly.
I really liked the chemistry between them. I appreciated that Ethan was a headstrong Omega. He knew what he wanted and was determined to get there. I loved that his parents were so accepting and supporting. Even his mentor had his back.
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