Rut (The Change) by Reese Morrison

In the world researcher Elias Greton lives in it's not considered normal for a viratrix man to be attracted to another viratrix. So Elias hides his feelings for his friend and fellow researcher Jordie until they are thrown into a rut together and decide to help each other out. However, maybe the Rut uncovers feelings from both Elias and Jordie and they have to decide if they can fight social norms to stay together.

From the blurb:

Elias is a viratrix. Which means he's supposed to be big, strong, and in control. He's two of those
things... but being in control is the last thing he wants.

Especially when his colleague goes into heat, sending him and his best friend, Jordie--another viratrix who just happens to be his research assistant--into rut.

But it'll be fine. He just won't look at Jordie's muscular arms and alluring green tentacles. And he definitely won't let Jordie get close enough to find out his secret desires...

Welcome to the post-apocalyptic world of The Change. Alpha/omega dynamics... with tentacles.

SNik's Review:

First in series (The Change). Science fiction. Alpha/omega dynamics. Mentor/friends. Dual POV. 

Elias is a distinguished researcher, sought after for his teaching and mentorship. He is happy on a small remote island with his work and his close friend, fellow researcher Jordie. But Elias is a viratrix, and he’s not supposed to be attracted to another viratrix like Jordie. So he resigns himself to only being a supportive friend and mentor. When an unexpected rut affects both Elias and Jordie, they decide to ride it out together, and it’s Elias’s dream come true and a real eye opener for Jordie. 

Jordie’s confidence and commitment to his feelings for Elias was so beautiful to read. His support and encouragement towards Elias were beyond swoony. Elias and Jordie really strengthen each other, their friendship easily grows to love and in the face of possible adversity they are determined to be together, which made their romance so fun to read. 

Enjoyed every page of Rut. Every interaction, all the steam, and every bit of this unusual world build for this new series from Reese Morrison. 

P.S. I did read the original short and this expansion really hit all the highs and lows the short couldn’t.

Rating: 5 Stars

Rut is available to buy as an ebook or to read with Kindle Unlimited subscription.