Iada is the strongest warrior among the Yaguara, jaguar shape shifters that live in the Amazon jungle. The Yaguara king has died and a tournament is bIada is the strongest warrior among the Yaguara, jaguar shape shifters that live in the Amazon jungle. The Yaguara king has died and a tournament is being held. Iada is poised to be the next queen. All she needs to do is beat the half blood outcast Gabriel and the crown is hers but to every one's surprise, Gabriel bests Iada and by sparing her life he makes her his queen.
It isn't long before Iada and Gabriel consummate their mating but their distrust of one another is ever present. With each encounter, some progress is made in their relationship but what Gabriel has in store as king will make Iada choose between her family and her mate.
Iada has been under the control of her uncles since her parents died. They wish to see her as queen so they have a puppet to make sure their agendas are taken care of. Iada knows what her uncles have in store for her but she has known nothing else. That is until Gabriel comes into the picture. Half breeds, half human half jaguar shape shifter, are seen abominations by the Yaguara and are casted out with no support what so ever. Gabriel has fought for the crown so he could change that but not many are happy about him being king. Iada's uncles have already began planning how to remove Gabriel from the crown permanently and Iada will be forced to pick a side.
I did not think of Iada as being weak because he uncles controlled and molded her to be what they wanted. She has known nothing else and has no other family besides her sister who was casted out for becoming pregnant by a human. I knew when it came down to making the decision between right and wrong, she would choose the right side. Iada and Gabriel have a difficult time when it comes to trusting each other because how they were raised. Iada thinks Gabriel has an ulterior motive because no one is that noble and caring. Gabriel thinks that Iada is nothing more than a heartless warrior who happily does what her uncles tell her to. Their physical relationship takes off right away but the trust takes a lot longer. I liked the relationship between these two because it doesn't come easy. Whenever they take one step forward to trusting each other, something pops into their head and they end up taking two steps back. Both have expect the other to be a certain way because of what they were taught be their people. Barriers are broken down between the two and I thought they made a really strong couple.
The Yaguara act as if the half breeds do not exists or don't even acknowledge them. The way these half breeds are treated is horrible and what Iada's uncles do to them made me wish that their own deaths would be drawn out and painful. The story switches off from being told by Iada and Gabriel but I wished we would have been able to seen through the eyes of the Yaguara and half breeds instead of just being told how they felt. I also would have liked to see what happened to Iada's uncles. They are just taken away and that is it. I wanted to know justice was served and not be left hanging.
Mercy is the debut work by author Eleri Stone and I thought it was a very enjoyable paranormal romance. It didn't take me long to get into and the story has a quick, steady pace to it. The relationship between Gabriel and Iada is both hot and emotional. Eleri has peeked my interest and I look forward to seeing what else she has to offer in the future. *fingers crossed for another shifter book*
~Stephanie
Merged review:
Iada is the strongest warrior among the Yaguara, jaguar shape shifters that live in the Amazon jungle. The Yaguara king has died and a tournament is being held. Iada is poised to be the next queen. All she needs to do is beat the half blood outcast Gabriel and the crown is hers but to every one's surprise, Gabriel bests Iada and by sparing her life he makes her his queen.
It isn't long before Iada and Gabriel consummate their mating but their distrust of one another is ever present. With each encounter, some progress is made in their relationship but what Gabriel has in store as king will make Iada choose between her family and her mate.
Iada has been under the control of her uncles since her parents died. They wish to see her as queen so they have a puppet to make sure their agendas are taken care of. Iada knows what her uncles have in store for her but she has known nothing else. That is until Gabriel comes into the picture. Half breeds, half human half jaguar shape shifter, are seen abominations by the Yaguara and are casted out with no support what so ever. Gabriel has fought for the crown so he could change that but not many are happy about him being king. Iada's uncles have already began planning how to remove Gabriel from the crown permanently and Iada will be forced to pick a side.
I did not think of Iada as being weak because he uncles controlled and molded her to be what they wanted. She has known nothing else and has no other family besides her sister who was casted out for becoming pregnant by a human. I knew when it came down to making the decision between right and wrong, she would choose the right side. Iada and Gabriel have a difficult time when it comes to trusting each other because how they were raised. Iada thinks Gabriel has an ulterior motive because no one is that noble and caring. Gabriel thinks that Iada is nothing more than a heartless warrior who happily does what her uncles tell her to. Their physical relationship takes off right away but the trust takes a lot longer. I liked the relationship between these two because it doesn't come easy. Whenever they take one step forward to trusting each other, something pops into their head and they end up taking two steps back. Both have expect the other to be a certain way because of what they were taught be their people. Barriers are broken down between the two and I thought they made a really strong couple.
The Yaguara act as if the half breeds do not exists or don't even acknowledge them. The way these half breeds are treated is horrible and what Iada's uncles do to them made me wish that their own deaths would be drawn out and painful. The story switches off from being told by Iada and Gabriel but I wished we would have been able to seen through the eyes of the Yaguara and half breeds instead of just being told how they felt. I also would have liked to see what happened to Iada's uncles. They are just taken away and that is it. I wanted to know justice was served and not be left hanging.
Mercy is the debut work by author Eleri Stone and I thought it was a very enjoyable paranormal romance. It didn't take me long to get into and the story has a quick, steady pace to it. The relationship between Gabriel and Iada is both hot and emotional. Eleri has peeked my interest and I look forward to seeing what else she has to offer in the future. *fingers crossed for another shifter book*
It's fifty years after the demon apocalypse and most people now live in underground cities where they spend a lot of time in a virtual world.3.5 stars
It's fifty years after the demon apocalypse and most people now live in underground cities where they spend a lot of time in a virtual world. Marci is a network technician who lives in fear of being randomly selected for genetic-testing. She's part summoner and if anyone finds out, there will be terrible consequences. No one is aware of her secret except for the sexy and dangerous Gabe.
Gabe is part incubus from an outcast settlement and it's his job to do what he can to find trade for his people. He's sent to Marci's colony and is surprised to find a summoner living among humans. After a lockdown is issued, Marci and Gabe find themselves alone together and Marci can't help be both scared and attracted to him. Gabe wants to prove he is not ruled by the lust but the longer they're together, the more difficult it is to resist her. With a promise from Gabe to see her safely back to his colony where she'll live without fear of punishment, Marci hopes she is making the right decision to trust him with her heart and her life.
Before the fall of cities and the rise of demons that have people taking shelter underground, summoners could call and control a demon. Now the tables have turned and the humans blame summoners. Marci has to hide who she is from everyone or take a chance topside in one of the outcast settlements. In the beginning I thought that Marci was weak for choosing to stay among people who could exile her. But as I read on I realized that Marci was born into a bad situation where her mother instilled the importance of keeping silent and she just thought it was the safer option. It didn't make her weak, it made her a survivor and I admired her for that.
Gabe's arrival throws a wrench into Marci's carefully lived existence. He'd like her to come to his outcast settlement of Rochester where she wouldn't have to hide what she is. Her summoner blood calls to him but it's something more that makes him want to explore things further. Gabe is part incubus and was born after his human mother was held prisoner by demons. He would never force himself on a woman like his father did and when Marci unknowingly uses her powers to draw him in, he sends her away even though it causes him pain. He isn't a perfect hero, which are my favorite kind, but he is loyal and will do anything to give Marci the life she deserves. My only real issue with Gabe and Marci was their relationship. I've come to expect a certain quality in a Moira Rogers' couple and I thought these two kind of fell flat. The sexual chemistry was there but I just wasn't wow'd with the emotional connection. I don't think they made a bad couple it's just they aren't the best that I've come across while reading other books from these authors.
Demon Bait takes place in a post apocalyptic world where half breeds like Marci and Gabe not only have demons to fear but also humans. It's rare places like Rochester they can call home. The settlement's leader, Dominic Wetzel, is strict and punishes those who break the rules or hurt someone. Zel is only in a couple scenes but he has a commanding presence that lingers even after he's left. I'm very interested in learning more about this character and I was very excited to learn that his book, Hammer Down, will be the next release in the series.
I wasn't a big fan of the technology or the virtual world. It just isn't my thing but I see why it would be a necessary escape for those who live in a world like that in Demon Bait. I still ended up enjoying the book and its unique and often scary world that these interesting characters are from. I'd recommend this to someone who likes sci-fi mixed with paranormal romance. -Stephanie G
Merged review:
3.5 stars
It's fifty years after the demon apocalypse and most people now live in underground cities where they spend a lot of time in a virtual world. Marci is a network technician who lives in fear of being randomly selected for genetic-testing. She's part summoner and if anyone finds out, there will be terrible consequences. No one is aware of her secret except for the sexy and dangerous Gabe.
Gabe is part incubus from an outcast settlement and it's his job to do what he can to find trade for his people. He's sent to Marci's colony and is surprised to find a summoner living among humans. After a lockdown is issued, Marci and Gabe find themselves alone together and Marci can't help be both scared and attracted to him. Gabe wants to prove he is not ruled by the lust but the longer they're together, the more difficult it is to resist her. With a promise from Gabe to see her safely back to his colony where she'll live without fear of punishment, Marci hopes she is making the right decision to trust him with her heart and her life.
Before the fall of cities and the rise of demons that have people taking shelter underground, summoners could call and control a demon. Now the tables have turned and the humans blame summoners. Marci has to hide who she is from everyone or take a chance topside in one of the outcast settlements. In the beginning I thought that Marci was weak for choosing to stay among people who could exile her. But as I read on I realized that Marci was born into a bad situation where her mother instilled the importance of keeping silent and she just thought it was the safer option. It didn't make her weak, it made her a survivor and I admired her for that.
Gabe's arrival throws a wrench into Marci's carefully lived existence. He'd like her to come to his outcast settlement of Rochester where she wouldn't have to hide what she is. Her summoner blood calls to him but it's something more that makes him want to explore things further. Gabe is part incubus and was born after his human mother was held prisoner by demons. He would never force himself on a woman like his father did and when Marci unknowingly uses her powers to draw him in, he sends her away even though it causes him pain. He isn't a perfect hero, which are my favorite kind, but he is loyal and will do anything to give Marci the life she deserves. My only real issue with Gabe and Marci was their relationship. I've come to expect a certain quality in a Moira Rogers' couple and I thought these two kind of fell flat. The sexual chemistry was there but I just wasn't wow'd with the emotional connection. I don't think they made a bad couple it's just they aren't the best that I've come across while reading other books from these authors.
Demon Bait takes place in a post apocalyptic world where half breeds like Marci and Gabe not only have demons to fear but also humans. It's rare places like Rochester they can call home. The settlement's leader, Dominic Wetzel, is strict and punishes those who break the rules or hurt someone. Zel is only in a couple scenes but he has a commanding presence that lingers even after he's left. I'm very interested in learning more about this character and I was very excited to learn that his book, Hammer Down, will be the next release in the series.
I wasn't a big fan of the technology or the virtual world. It just isn't my thing but I see why it would be a necessary escape for those who live in a world like that in Demon Bait. I still ended up enjoying the book and its unique and often scary world that these interesting characters are from. I'd recommend this to someone who likes sci-fi mixed with paranormal romance. -Stephanie G...more
Carrie Benton is a reporter for the Weekly News Journal. The types of stories she covers involve headlines with the words aliens, ghosts and chupacabrCarrie Benton is a reporter for the Weekly News Journal. The types of stories she covers involve headlines with the words aliens, ghosts and chupacabra in them. Her latest assignment lands her in the middle of a snow storm and after a car accident, in the arms of a very handsome and very big man. Tim Sattizahn can't get enough of the tall redhead he just saved. She is everything he wants in a woman except for the fact her boss sent her out looking for bigfoot. A topic Tim knows all about since he just so happens to be the very creature.
Carrie is smart, witty and very straight to the point. I liked everything about her character almost as much as I loved Tim's. He is 7 feet tall (the height alone had me), well built, gorgeous and has a kind caring heart. He helps Carrie after she gets in a accident and brings her back to his home where they quickly become acquainted. They open up to each other and their new found relationship is put to the test when Carrie finds out Tim's little secret.
Size Matters is a novella so things move along at a quicker pace but it all worked out well. Carrie and Tim instantly click and each sultry encounter leaves you wanting more. As amazing as the sex between them is you could feel that there was more to their relationship. Tim's cousin Andy and his friend Fry rounded out a fun bunch of characters making this a very sexy and entertaining novella. Size Matters is the first book in Stephanie Julian's Fringe series and I hope it won't be the last.
~Stephanie
Merged review:
Carrie Benton is a reporter for the Weekly News Journal. The types of stories she covers involve headlines with the words aliens, ghosts and chupacabra in them. Her latest assignment lands her in the middle of a snow storm and after a car accident, in the arms of a very handsome and very big man. Tim Sattizahn can't get enough of the tall redhead he just saved. She is everything he wants in a woman except for the fact her boss sent her out looking for bigfoot. A topic Tim knows all about since he just so happens to be the very creature.
Carrie is smart, witty and very straight to the point. I liked everything about her character almost as much as I loved Tim's. He is 7 feet tall (the height alone had me), well built, gorgeous and has a kind caring heart. He helps Carrie after she gets in a accident and brings her back to his home where they quickly become acquainted. They open up to each other and their new found relationship is put to the test when Carrie finds out Tim's little secret.
Size Matters is a novella so things move along at a quicker pace but it all worked out well. Carrie and Tim instantly click and each sultry encounter leaves you wanting more. As amazing as the sex between them is you could feel that there was more to their relationship. Tim's cousin Andy and his friend Fry rounded out a fun bunch of characters making this a very sexy and entertaining novella. Size Matters is the first book in Stephanie Julian's Fringe series and I hope it won't be the last.
Carmen Mendoza is part human, empath and werewolf. Though she is unable to shift, her father's werewolf family has repeatedly tried to mate her for poCarmen Mendoza is part human, empath and werewolf. Though she is unable to shift, her father's werewolf family has repeatedly tried to mate her for political gain. Things are taken too far when a witch is hired to cast a spell to bring out her dormant werewolf. Now under the spell that is tearing her apart, Carmen turns to the only man able to calm her wolf. New Orleans unofficially belongs to Alec Jacobson. After seeking revenge against those who killed his human wife, Alec separated himself from his important shape shifting family and now takes care of those in need. Carmen doesn't just stir his protective instincts but ignites a desire in him that drives him to want to shake up the ruling class and make a permanent change in the system.
Alec and Carmen are one of my favorite PNR couples. They work together great without it seeming forced. Alec is an alpha plain and simple. It's in him to protect and dominate. Carmen is a doctor that puts everything she has into her work. Her submission to Alec is something she gives willingly and even craves it. Their relationship moves a bit quickly but the chemistry and primal heat between the two makes it feel as if they have been a couple for years. The arrival of Carmen in Alec's life not only helps heal the wounds left by the murder of his wife but also gives him motivation needed to challenge those who are in the seats of power to make life better for shifters who were not born into a family of privilege. Carmen is with Alec every step of the way even when things become extremely personal and Carmen will have to pick between her own family and Alec.
Aside from the relationship between Alec and Carmen, what I also really liked about Deadlock was the amount of progress that is made in the continuing story line. In werewolf society, changed wolves are looked down upon and are not considered equals to purebloods. Old families have all the important positions and people are easily corrupted by wealth and power. Alec and Carmen know first hand about this because both of their families have tried to use them as pawns in their own movements to obtain a higher status. Alec has been content with just being the alpha of New Orleans but once Carmen's family attempts a potentially deadly spell on her, Alec starts to put plans in action to end the rule of unjust leaders and try and make life better for all.
I enjoyed everything about Deadlock. Carmen is a wonderful heroine that has her own mind and isn't afraid to express her feelings and Alec is the troubled alpha hero that had me wrapped around his strong, masculine fingers. There are moments of laughter and heartache mixed in with right amount of action and touching moments. You know Carmen and Alec have difficult times ahead in order to make significant changes in the political structure but you have confidence they will accomplish what they set out do and give every bit of themselves trying. I know when I start a Moira Rogers book that I'm in for a good read and I think they outdid themselves with Deadlock.
Stephanie
Merged review:
Carmen Mendoza is part human, empath and werewolf. Though she is unable to shift, her father's werewolf family has repeatedly tried to mate her for political gain. Things are taken too far when a witch is hired to cast a spell to bring out her dormant werewolf. Now under the spell that is tearing her apart, Carmen turns to the only man able to calm her wolf. New Orleans unofficially belongs to Alec Jacobson. After seeking revenge against those who killed his human wife, Alec separated himself from his important shape shifting family and now takes care of those in need. Carmen doesn't just stir his protective instincts but ignites a desire in him that drives him to want to shake up the ruling class and make a permanent change in the system.
Alec and Carmen are one of my favorite PNR couples. They work together great without it seeming forced. Alec is an alpha plain and simple. It's in him to protect and dominate. Carmen is a doctor that puts everything she has into her work. Her submission to Alec is something she gives willingly and even craves it. Their relationship moves a bit quickly but the chemistry and primal heat between the two makes it feel as if they have been a couple for years. The arrival of Carmen in Alec's life not only helps heal the wounds left by the murder of his wife but also gives him motivation needed to challenge those who are in the seats of power to make life better for shifters who were not born into a family of privilege. Carmen is with Alec every step of the way even when things become extremely personal and Carmen will have to pick between her own family and Alec.
Aside from the relationship between Alec and Carmen, what I also really liked about Deadlock was the amount of progress that is made in the continuing story line. In werewolf society, changed wolves are looked down upon and are not considered equals to purebloods. Old families have all the important positions and people are easily corrupted by wealth and power. Alec and Carmen know first hand about this because both of their families have tried to use them as pawns in their own movements to obtain a higher status. Alec has been content with just being the alpha of New Orleans but once Carmen's family attempts a potentially deadly spell on her, Alec starts to put plans in action to end the rule of unjust leaders and try and make life better for all.
I enjoyed everything about Deadlock. Carmen is a wonderful heroine that has her own mind and isn't afraid to express her feelings and Alec is the troubled alpha hero that had me wrapped around his strong, masculine fingers. There are moments of laughter and heartache mixed in with right amount of action and touching moments. You know Carmen and Alec have difficult times ahead in order to make significant changes in the political structure but you have confidence they will accomplish what they set out do and give every bit of themselves trying. I know when I start a Moira Rogers book that I'm in for a good read and I think they outdid themselves with Deadlock.
Feral Warrior Hawke has recently been freed from a trap designed to painfully separate him and his animal spirit. Though he made it out alive, he now Feral Warrior Hawke has recently been freed from a trap designed to painfully separate him and his animal spirit. Though he made it out alive, he now faces a constant battle for control and can feel the life giving bond slipping away. When there appears to be no hope, Hawke meets the beautiful and full of life Faith. Both the man and the animal want Faith but unfortunately she's the future mate of the newest Feral. Faith hasn't known either man for long but it's Hawke that she's drawn to from the start but Maxim has no intention of letting her go and when his devious plans are revealed, Hawke and Faith will have to fight for their love and their lives.
When we last seen Hawke, he'd just been pulled from the daemon spirit trap. In Ecstasy Untamed, he has awaken but is struggling to stay in control of his body and mind. The animal spirit that allows him to change into a hawk and marks him as one of the 9 Feral Warriors is fighting to take over. It's a bit surprising to see Hawke not in control because he's the calmer, more together Feral. It's not until Faith arrives that he's finally able to have clear thoughts. Faith is Therian, an immortal race in which the Feral Warriors are chosen from. Unlike most of her kind, Faith actually likes being around humans and has devoted her time to help as many get off the street as she can. She's a very caring and thoughtful person and just what Hawke needs. Their feelings for one another are strong and their physical relationship makes you a bit envious of Faith. What I liked most about this pairing is that it isn't about one person saving the other. It's more about them making the other person strong enough so that they can save themselves.
When a Feral dies, the animal spirit living within them finds a new host and it's believed that Maxim is to be the new Fox shifter. Faith and Maxim crossed paths one night and she decides rather quickly to join him on his trip to the Feral House. From the beginning, Faith's relationship with Maxim isn't normal and it becomes obvious that he has a real darkness to him. Soon the others notice it too and discover that their enemies, the Mages, are trying once again to raise Satanan. As much as I disliked Maxim, the man was just pure evil, his character is well developed for the amount of page time he received and I always give kudos to an author that's able to make me hate a fictional person. What I liked about the story in this book and this series is that the Feral Warriors are still fighting the same enemies but in each book there is a new twist added that keeps the story from getting dull and there were a few thrown into this book that kept me guessing till the end.
Ecstasy Untamed is the latest in Pamela Palmer's dark and addicting paranormal romance series. I think these books are for those who can handle a more intense drama and are ok with not having everything wrapped neatly in a bow by the end of each book. I thought this book had less action in it compared to the books before it but thanks to suspense and Hawke's personal struggle, this book kept a good pace and was hard to put down. -Stephanie
Merged review:
Feral Warrior Hawke has recently been freed from a trap designed to painfully separate him and his animal spirit. Though he made it out alive, he now faces a constant battle for control and can feel the life giving bond slipping away. When there appears to be no hope, Hawke meets the beautiful and full of life Faith. Both the man and the animal want Faith but unfortunately she's the future mate of the newest Feral. Faith hasn't known either man for long but it's Hawke that she's drawn to from the start but Maxim has no intention of letting her go and when his devious plans are revealed, Hawke and Faith will have to fight for their love and their lives.
When we last seen Hawke, he'd just been pulled from the daemon spirit trap. In Ecstasy Untamed, he has awaken but is struggling to stay in control of his body and mind. The animal spirit that allows him to change into a hawk and marks him as one of the 9 Feral Warriors is fighting to take over. It's a bit surprising to see Hawke not in control because he's the calmer, more together Feral. It's not until Faith arrives that he's finally able to have clear thoughts. Faith is Therian, an immortal race in which the Feral Warriors are chosen from. Unlike most of her kind, Faith actually likes being around humans and has devoted her time to help as many get off the street as she can. She's a very caring and thoughtful person and just what Hawke needs. Their feelings for one another are strong and their physical relationship makes you a bit envious of Faith. What I liked most about this pairing is that it isn't about one person saving the other. It's more about them making the other person strong enough so that they can save themselves.
When a Feral dies, the animal spirit living within them finds a new host and it's believed that Maxim is to be the new Fox shifter. Faith and Maxim crossed paths one night and she decides rather quickly to join him on his trip to the Feral House. From the beginning, Faith's relationship with Maxim isn't normal and it becomes obvious that he has a real darkness to him. Soon the others notice it too and discover that their enemies, the Mages, are trying once again to raise Satanan. As much as I disliked Maxim, the man was just pure evil, his character is well developed for the amount of page time he received and I always give kudos to an author that's able to make me hate a fictional person. What I liked about the story in this book and this series is that the Feral Warriors are still fighting the same enemies but in each book there is a new twist added that keeps the story from getting dull and there were a few thrown into this book that kept me guessing till the end.
Ecstasy Untamed is the latest in Pamela Palmer's dark and addicting paranormal romance series. I think these books are for those who can handle a more intense drama and are ok with not having everything wrapped neatly in a bow by the end of each book. I thought this book had less action in it compared to the books before it but thanks to suspense and Hawke's personal struggle, this book kept a good pace and was hard to put down. -Stephanie...more
Lucifer was great but it was Sophia who really impressed me. I wasn't a huge fan of hers but she really stepped up her game here and proved why she's Lucifer was great but it was Sophia who really impressed me. I wasn't a huge fan of hers but she really stepped up her game here and proved why she's a vampire lord....more
Not the best or my favorite from the series but it's still entertaining. Not the best or my favorite from the series but it's still entertaining. ...more
Magic Stars is more than just a novella to ease your craving between Kate Daniels releases. It takes you into the mind of Derek Gaunt, a wolf shifter Magic Stars is more than just a novella to ease your craving between Kate Daniels releases. It takes you into the mind of Derek Gaunt, a wolf shifter and fan favorite, as he investigates the murder of a family. It's a case he takes personally and no one is safe in Derek's search to find the motive and mastermind behind it all.
I love getting a look into Derek's mind. It's not a pretty place since his attack that left him scarred and feeling like an outsider, even when among family. Despite the bleak outlook on his own future, Derek loves fierce and is loyal to the end and you see that by how the murder he is investigating gets to him. It's a privilege as a reader to get to see a character so personally and it makes me want more. So much more.
Julie joins Derek and lends a magical hand in finding the killers and mystery object they're after. Julie has come a long way from the kid we first meet. She's maturing and taking on a larger role in the series. I'm impressed by her growth and how she's handling...well I won't say exactly what because she is hiding secrets that will land her in hot water with Kate but at the moment, she's got it handled and she has my full attention.
This is a short read but each page packs a punch and delivers a satisfy trip into Atlanta and its magical insanity. If you're looking for a dose of Kate and Curran, you're not going to find it here BUT that doesn't mean you should skip it. Derek and Julie own Magic Stars and are deserving of a dozen more novellas, if not eventually a full length novel of their own. - Stephanie...more
I loved getting to see everyone and getting a sort of wrap up of their stories but I missed getting a new romance. Also, the book felt a big longer thI loved getting to see everyone and getting a sort of wrap up of their stories but I missed getting a new romance. Also, the book felt a big longer than necessary because there’s lot of recapping. Some of it was useful because there were so many characters mentioned but there was a bit too much and it slowed the pace. It wasn't perfect but I found many enjoyable, sweet, heart tugging moments and one I wouldn’t suggest skipping if you’ve kept up with the series. ...more
This book didn't have quite the same umph as book one. Ildiko's confidence takes a hit and I missed that fire that had herLeaning towards a 3.5 rating
This book didn't have quite the same umph as book one. Ildiko's confidence takes a hit and I missed that fire that had her standing up to Secmis in book one. I also thought so much time was spent on showing the strain put on Brishen and Ildiko's relationship that I didn't get to enjoy it like I did before and it doesn't really move forward and strengthen.
I still really liked the book but when compared to Radiance, which I LOVED, it didn't quite hold up.
In the year 4668, human Amanda Sumner is sent to explore the planet of Harp and discovers she can hear the trees sing. Unwilling to leave the first plIn the year 4668, human Amanda Sumner is sent to explore the planet of Harp and discovers she can hear the trees sing. Unwilling to leave the first place that has felt like home, Amanda sets out to join the Guild. The members of the mysterious Guild don't want her anywhere near their secrets and none more so than Rhodry de Mendoza. Rhodry feels the spark between him and Amanda but the human could mean disaster to his planet so he wants her gone. After a betrayal leaves them injured and away from help, Amanda and Rhodry must work together to survive Harp's most dangerous environment.
Amanda is a fabulous heroine. She's intelligent, resourceful, and incredibly brave. She jumps at the chance to visit Harp, a planet 500 years prior was colonized by humans that were forced to get...resourceful in order to survive. The big, beautiful trees in what is called the Green sing to Amanda and she knows this is her home. In order to fully explore the Green, she must become a Guild member. The book is called Shifter Planet and even though it's treated as a secret, I feel it's obvious from the start that the Guild is made of shifters that can handle the dangers within the Green. Amanda wants to be free among the trees so if that means joining the Guild, then so be it. Living on a new planet alone? Going toe to toe with big, grumpy shifters? Amanda is pretty badass without really trying to be.
Rhodry de Mendoza radiates dominance and loves his home and family more than anything. Sweet qualities and at times I like him and other times I want to strangle him. Amanda and the other earthlings are a threat and wants them gone. His body and heart desires her but he denies himself (because that always works out) and tries to dissuade her from joining the Guild out of fear for her safety. He wants to help and not help for her own good. So frustrating! For me, this is Amanda's book and Rhodry plays a supporting, yet important, part and it works for his character.
The romance is one of the weaker aspects of the book but that may be more because I'm use to bigger sparks between D.B. Reynolds' characters and this book is different from her Vampires in America series. Here, Rhodry and Amanda spend a lot of time apart yet what moments they share are filled with emotion. It's not until well into the book that things get serious. What I get is hot and full of passion but it wasn't quite enough to satisfy my romance sweet tooth.
There are so many details in Shifter Planet that as you read you feel like you're transported to Harp and really get to know its City and people. The writing is excellent and paints a great picture of the creatures and dangers lurking in the Green. There are moments where it feels like information overload and it slows the pace of the book but I can definitely say there's no lack of detail.
Aside from Amanda's bid to enter the Guild, there's a bit of family drama both within Rhodry's clan and on the outside between him and what I'll call the ruling party of Harp. This plays a part in his teaming up with Amanda in the wild during her Guild admission test and adds interesting conflict to the book. Not to mention a few characters I would love to know more about. I sure hope this is the start of a series because there is so much more I want to explore on Harp....more
It’s the last hurrah for Criminy and Tish. In the final trip back to the deliciously dark and twisted world of Sang, Tish’s beloved grandmother is jusIt’s the last hurrah for Criminy and Tish. In the final trip back to the deliciously dark and twisted world of Sang, Tish’s beloved grandmother is just about out of time until Tish decides it would be a great idea to bring granny from Earth to Sang and make her a Bludwoman. When things don’t turn out the way she hoped, Tish finds herself chasing dear ol’ granny after she disappears. What ensues, after a not so surprising change to Tish, is a dangerous journey to be rid of an enemy and have the happily ever after Tish and Criminy have longed for. One where they avoid vicious Bludbunnies, circus freaks are family, and getting naughty for all to see in a hot air balloon.
I had fun having one last adventure in Sang. All the series favorites make cameos and lend a hand in helping Tish and Criminy find her grandmother after she takes off to track down the witch that stole years off of Tish’s life. I was happy to be back in Sang, yet not so thrilled with Tish. It feels like she uses her grandmother as a reason to hide behind her fear of turning into a Bludwoman. When that problem is solved, she’s so upset with her grandma wanting to live her new life after battling cancer for so long (granted, her grandma does get really cold with her and it’s wrong) Tish doesn’t see it as a chance to finally regain her own youth and be with Criminy. Criminy is all in and supports whatever Tish wants and it feels a little cruel for her to be holding off so long. There are qualities I still enjoy about Tish’s character, this was just disappointing.
At 177 pages, there’s a rushed feel to the book so all these events happen rather quickly and isn’t as seamless as I would have liked. That being said, the adventure is an entertaining one and the author does a good job at delivering a satisfying, emotional, paranormaly sexy, Criminy filled finale. This one is for fans of the series and any newbies should hop on back and start with book one. - Stephanie...more
Rhage may have the biggest appetite and definitely has the biggest heart but he can’t understand or control the panic and insecurity that plague him a Rhage may have the biggest appetite and definitely has the biggest heart but he can’t understand or control the panic and insecurity that plague him and the readers can’t help but get caught up in the emotionally gripping aspect of the story as Rhage and Mary struggle on personal journeys that could tear them apart. The turmoil that plagues both of these beloved characters strikes readers deep and holds them glued to the pages to discover how Rhage and Mary overcome their emotional strife. The entire book really gives readers an in-depth view of the characters and brings them to life even more vibrantly and despite the length, the story is still very fast paced because there is just so much going on that the readers hardly have time to blink much less realize how much time is passing.
The Black Dagger Brotherhood’s characters have held a special place in my heart since their creation and I have to tell you that I have a bit of a crush on them all but especially Rhage, so some of the exciting parts of this story really had me on pins and needles and wanting to jump right in and fix things. But not all of the excitement comes from Rhage and Mary’s life there are lots of things happening all around – some of which gets the adrenaline pumping, some events are sad, some happy, some scary and some unsettling although this shouldn’t be surprising considering that J.R. Ward knows how to make a story pack quite a punch and leave readers breathless with anticipation and wanting more.
This was definitely a long story, one that had me glued to the pages, so much so that I refused to go to sleep until I had finished reading every last page and then of course, I crashed and dreamed of everything that happened and what it might mean in the future for my favorite Brotherhood, so I can’t wait for the next book. - Eva...more
Kendrick, tiger shifter and Guardian to his un-Collared clan, is searching for a new home while evading an enemy that is turning his shifters against Kendrick, tiger shifter and Guardian to his un-Collared clan, is searching for a new home while evading an enemy that is turning his shifters against him. He needs to stay focused on his mission but he can't seem to walk away from a lovely human waitress that shows him and his cubs compassion and kindness and when they're threatened, she puts her life on the line to save them. After events have them in hiding together, Addison is willing to navigate the unfamiliar world of shifters and do whatever it takes to protect the adorable cubs and the male she is quickly falling for.
Addison is an...okay heroine. There's not a whole lot in the way of character development, aside from being convinced she's a genuinely nice, sweet person. The first time Kendrick walks into Addie's diner, she's done for. She looks forward to his nightly visits with his sons and when her diner is shot up, she wants to go on the run with him. There's a little more to story than that but not much and not enough for me to see that her decision makes sense. This is a PNR so things progress at a faster speed but even so, I thought it all moved too quickly and I felt I never really got to know her.
I've had a little more time to get to know Kendrick and he is decent enough. He has spent 20 years protecting shifters that don't want to me collard and forced into Shiftertowns. He's kept them hidden until recently when their hideout was uncovered and now he's looking for a new home while evading humans and Dylan Morrissey. I may not agree with them being cut off from the rest of their kind that want to help (meaning Dylan) but Kendrick has given everything to protect his shifters and he truly cares. I feel the previous alphas in the series have a wider impact and radiate more power and dominance than Kendrick but he's not bad and had me genuinely interested in what happens to his pack.
On the romance side of things it's all very okay (there's that word again). Kendrick is all kinds of gorgeous, which Addie may make mention of once or twice (or several times) and for Kendrick, his need for Addie feels instant and mostly about getting it on with her (which he of course tries to fight). It doesn't go very deep and it's nice they get an HEA but that's about it.
Someone is turning Kendrick's shifters against him and he has to figure out what's going on while hiding from Dylan and what he thinks is Dylan's desire to control and collar Kendrick's pack. He makes Dylan into more of the boogeyman than he actually is, yet I like his take on him. Dylan is a force in the Shifters Unbound world and he's usually seen in a more favorable, feared/respected light so getting a different perspective is interesting. As for the plot surrounding Kendrick's enemy in the shadows, it adds enough suspense and action to the story to keep things moving.
White Tiger is...and this is the last time I'll use this word...okay. It's nowhere near the best installment in the series but it's engaging enough to want to finish. The character that made the most impact is Xander, a polar bear shifter with a unique healing ability and a fun sense of humor. He's called crazy by others, which he his, but I know there so much more to him and I'm excited his book will be next. - Stephanie...more
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