Book Review: Gray Moon Rising by S.M. Reine (Seasons of the Moon)

Gray Moon Rising by S.M. Reine is the fourth, and final, book in the Seasons of the Moon series. Although, it is important to note that the author does continue the story of this world (and Rylie) in a other series and stand alone books. 

It’s been almost a year since Rylie Gresham was bitten by a werewolf on Gray Mountain. Now something is beckoning her back to the place she was attacked, along with every other werewolf in the world. But they aren’t the only ones heeding the call. A group of hunters notices them gathering and sees it as their chance to wipe out the entire species. Seth is about to graduate high school when he learns of the final hunt. He secretly plans to save Rylie and his werewolf brother even though he has to play along with the hunters to do it. But Rylie doesn’t want to be saved. She’s already decided to solve her problems with a silver bullet if answers aren’t waiting on Gray Mountain. One way or another, everything is about to end—whether it means Rylie’s liberation or the end of her life.

Gray Moon Rising is a needed conclusion to the story, and offers a significant about of character development for Rylie  and her closest friends. I like that she grew up and took charge, and that the action made the larger story arc move in an interesting direction. I liked that most characters, new and old, were neither all good or bad. Even some of the characters that could have initially have been pegged as an good or bad guy fell somewhere in the middle, or a good person that thinks they are doing the right thing but ignoring how it effects others. Some of the secondary characters had a good amount of personal growth as well. I think that fans of the series will need to read the book, just to finish off this story arc. Many will be disappointed with the number of new questions raised, and the lack of closure with Rylie's story. However, it did offer enough of a wrap up that I feel like I can skip some of the Cain Chronicles, which promise a significant about of world building and changes, also promises to contain a love triangle which I have no interest in following.

Gray Moon Rising is a good conclusion to this quartet, however there are still questions left unanswered. The Cain Chronicles follows it and covers more of Rylie's story, but I am unsure if I want to read it. There are so many other sub series by the author that I want to explore first.

Early Book Review: Her Rogue Alpha (X-Ops #5) by Paige Tyler

Her Rogue Alpha is the fifth book in the X-Ops series by Paige Tyler.  It is currently scheduled for release on September 6 2016. I highly recommend having read the previous books before diving into this one, particularly Her Fierce Warrior, because the main characters and their story has already begun. I think readers could catch on, but will lose a important understanding of how the characters got to where they are, and the larger story arc all comes together.

Former Special Forces Lieutenant Jayson Harmon can't believe that his war scars don't matter to beautiful feline shifter Layla Halliwell. Why would she saddle herself with a broken man? However, Layla knows that Jayson is a hero to the core, and that only she can heal his wounded soul. So when Jayson is deployed on another deadly mission, no way is Layla staying behind.

Her Rogue Alpha is a book that requires some prior reading, but is worth following the series. More than just a romance between Jayson and Layla, this is also about both of them coming to terms with their own limitations, abilities, and preconceptions. Jayson is still recovering from series injuries, and is likely never to be as strong or agile as he once was. Layla loves him for who he is, not who he was, since they met after the injuries. It is only after Jayson takes a crazy risk and is sent on a mission that (of course) is more dangerous and complicated than anyone expected. In the process of completing the mission everyone involved needs to come to terms with who they are and the feelings they have for others. Secondary stories, like the search for a cat burglar that manages to steal more than she bargains for from a major player and the continued experiments and politics surrounding hybrids and shifters. I do not recommend the read to newcomers to this series, but think that those that have been following this world since the first book, Her Perfect Mate, or even joined the craze a bit later, with get much enjoyment from the read.

Her Rogue Alpha is a solid addition to this series, and adds much to the larger story arc and hints at who might hold the leading roles in upcoming books. Fans of the author, and this series in particular, will not want to miss it.

Early Book Review: My Wild Irish Dragon by Ashlyn Chase

My Wild Irish Dragon by Ashlyn Chase is the second book in the Boston Dragons series. It is schedule for release on September 6 2016. The first book, I Dream of Dragons, is connected by characters, but I think that readers coming fresh to the story will be able to enjoy the story without having read the previous book.

Dragon shifter Chloe Arish is hell-bent on becoming a Boston firefighter. She uses her Irish charm and fake documents to score an interview, knowing she has to work every bit as hard as a man, harder if she wants their respect. Born into a legendary Boston firefighting family, phoenix shifter Ryan Fiero can't possibly let someone best him on the training course or the job. He'd never hear the end of it. When a feisty new recruit comes along who's determined to do just that, Ryan plots to kick her out-until their sizzling chemistry turns explosive.

My Wild Irish Dragon gives the assertive sister of the Irish dragon clan that has started settling into Boston her story. Chloe wants to help people, she has the skills and strength to be a firefighter so that is what she wants to do. Ryan comes from a family of fire fighters, and he cannot imagine doing anything else. The pair begin as rivals, but soon verbal sparing and competition turns into something much better. As they find their way together the pair need to keep their secrets, including their paranormal sides and couple status so they they are not separated on the job. As always, challenges keep popping up and inner doubts of the characters are shared regularly. I liked them both, and felt like their connection was solid. I think they fell together more easily than I am used to, but got to have an extra large surprise at the end because of that. It was a fun read, just not one that had me staying up late to finish.

My Wild Irish Dragon is a fun romance with plenty of chemistry and complications. While not the best paranormal romance I have read, it was an entertain read and I liked that the world of paranormal creatures n Chase’s books just expanded again. 

Book Review: To Love a Wolf (SWAT: Special Wolf Alpha Team #4) by Paige Tyler

To Love a Wolf is the forth book in the SWAT: Special Wolf Alpha Team series by Paige Tyler. SWAT officer Landry Cooper is certain EverlyDanu is The One. The problem is, she has no idea what Cooper really is. And as much as he wants to trust her, he's not sure he can share his deepest secret. When Everly's family discovers Cooper's a werewolf, her brothers will do anything to keep them apart-they'll kill him if they have to. Everly is falling hard for the ridiculously handsome SWAT officer, and she's not about to let her brothers tell her who she can love, until Cooper's secret is exposed and she discovers the man she thought she knew is a monster in disguise.

To Love a Wolf is a nice continuation in the series, and still can stand well on its own. Landry might be a firm believer in the existence of "The One" but he never expected to meet his while waiting in line a a bank about to be robbed. I liked him, and was glad to see more of his past and thoughts. I really liked Everly'spersonality, background, and family dynamics. I thought we could have benefited from seeing more of the guys in her family earlier in the book, it would have been interesting if there were a longer conflict there. However, I hope to see more of them in later books. A heated romance, some crazy coincidences, and slow acceptance of revealed secrets keep the story moving along. At one point I felt it could be wrapped up, but the story went for a bonus crisis instead. It still worked, but more character development or conversation might have made me happier.

To Love a Wolf is another solid installment in Tyler`s series. I loved getting to see Landry get his happy ever after. While there were some moments  that were a little too convenient, it all came together well and kept me reading.

Book Review: Long Night Moon by S.M. Reine

Long Night Moon is the third book in the Seasons of the Moon series by S.M. Reine. Something is killing innocent people around Rylie Gresham's town. The police think it's a wild animal, but she has other suspicions. There are new kids at school, and they have a lot in common with her: gold eyes, super strength, and a habit of turning furry. It seems Rylie's not the only werewolf around anymore. It's up to Rylie and her werewolf-hunting boyfriend, Seth, to stop the killings. But saving lives doesn't come naturally to a monster, and territory battles could risk the life of her sickly aunt--not to mention her own. Rylie has no choice but to stand her ground, protect her home, and stop the murderers before anyone else gets hurt.

Long Night Moon is a good addition to the series, with plenty of action and twists to keep the reader guessing. The violent deaths in the area have everyone worried. New werewolves come to town, Seth’s brother is acting stranger then usual, Rylie’s aunt is not doing well, and a meddling doctor comes to town there are just so many things going on that both Seth and Rylie are struggling to figure out what is going on, and what they should do next. There are unexpected complications and some normal teenage angst all mixed together to keep both the characters and the readers on their toes guessing to see what might happen next. I was on edge and only saw a few of the twists coming- and those I was unsure about until the very end. 

Long Night Moon is another book that goes by a little too quickly. The book has a satisfying conclusion, it was just over before I was ready to leave Rylie and her new world behind. I will be diving into the conclusion of this quartet as soon as possible.

Book Review: Alpha Wolf Need Not Apply by Terry Spear

Alpha Wolf Need Not Apply is the latest romance by Terry Spear in the Silvertown Wolf series. Wolf shifter and park ranger Eric Silver is committed to his job policing spectacular San Isabel National Forest, and he’s hot on the scent of some mysterious wolves who are up to no good. When Eric’s investigation leads him to cross paths with forester Pepper Grayling, he’s fascinated to learn this she-wolf is her pack’s leader. She is strong, independent, and definitely not looking for a mate. With unknown dangers on the prowl, Pepper is tempted to give in to her attraction to Eric and align her pack with his. But Pepper’s been pursued by many an alpha male out to take over her pack and gain her hard-won territory, and Eric is a born leader. How does Eric earn the trust of a she-wolf who’s been betrayed so often in the past?

Alpha Wolf Need Not Apply is an interesting and fast paced read. Pepper is tired of defending her pack from make werewolves that think mating her is the easy way to take over her pack and territory. She has already lost one mate, and is just looking to do the best for the pack and herself. Eric is tracking werewolves that are using the National Park to grow weed and find their illegal activities. He runs across Pepper and her pack while hunting for the perpetrators and needs to continue his work, and make sure that Pepper’s pack is not part of the problem. Suspicion and guarded hearts on all sides, with the complication of Pepper’s unwanted suitor and the illegal activities in the forest make everything more interesting, but shared interests and teamwork save the day- both in the action and romance that are woven through the story. 

Alpha Wolf Need Not Apply is  a solid addition to the series, but works well as a stand alone book as well. It meets my expectations of quality and interest from the author. If you like Spear’s work. and paranormal romance with characters that are interesting and complex then get reading.

Book Review: All Hallows Moon by S.M. Reine

All Hallows Moon by S.M. Reine is the second book in the Seasons of the Moon series, which is four books long and complete. If you have not read the previous books, do not start here. If you liked the first book, then you are going to want to read this one as well.

Rylie survived becoming a werewolf at great cost. She moves to her aunt’s ranch in the hopes she can enroll in a new high school and quietly continue her life with a few distinct changes. She transforms into a beast every new and full moon and struggles to control her murderous urges. A family of hunters -- Eleanor, Abel, and Seth -- recognize the signs and follow Rylie to her new home. They want to stop her before she murders someone, and the only way to do it is with a silver bullet. Seth soon realizes the werewolf is Rylie, the one monster he failed to kill. Worse yet, he’s still in love with her. Torn between family and love, Rylie struggles to reconcile her feelings and control the wolf within while Seth fights to do what’s right. But what is right-- obeying desire or duty?

All Hallows Moon adds some serious character development to the quartet of book. Rylie is trying to control her new furry side, and dealing with the joy that is moving to a new town when you already have some serious trust issues. I liked getting to see more of Seth’s family, and the dynamics that have made Seth and Abel who they are. I think the most impressive, and important, part of the series is that while the connection and potential romance between Seth and Rylie is definitely there it does not take precedence. The character development and action are much more important that the romance, which makes me happy in any urban fantasy style of writing.

All Hallows Moon is a solid addition to the larger storyline. It read very quickly, but I did not count pages so I am unsure if it was shorter than the first, or if it was just one of those books that is over before the reader is ready to let go. I will say that it made it much easier to keep reading and dive right into there third book in the series.

Book Review: Cast in Angelfire by S.M. Reine

Cast in Angelfire by S.M. Reine is the first book in the Mage Craft series. Newcomers to Reines work might be able to catch up with this new series, but I have not finished reading all the previous series, and feel like what I had read gave me big clues. If I had caught up before starting this book I feel like I would have enjoyed it even more. So, I would suggest either starting fresh here, or reading everything else first.

Eighteen-year-old Marion can’t remember anything before waking up in the hospital. All she knows that a lot of people want to kill her. She quickly has to come to terms with the fact that her would-be assassins are not human. Vampires, faeries, and angels and real and they all want Marion dead. Marion turns to Lucas Flynn: a mysterious doctor who seems to know more than he’s letting on. He is as good with a gun as he is with a scalpel. He fights like a demon but claims that he’s human. And he’s hellbent on protecting Marion. Lucas claims that Marion is a mage: half-witch, half-angel with terrifying powers that could crack the world. But Marion can’t remember how to cast magic any more than she can remember where she comes from. Marion must find her identity and her power…before the forgotten sins of her past catch up with her.

Cast in Angelfire was really well done. I liked the dynamic of Marion not knowing anything, which made it easier to catch up to were the world the book takes place in. I liked that we got to explore the world, characters, and Marion herself right along side her. There are multiple points of view used in the storytelling, but it worked well here, giving readers a better view of the bigger picture. My only complaint is common with just about any book aimed at the young or new adult novel. There is a leaning towards a love triangle, though it is never firmly set into play. I could really do without that, or the possessive boyfriend troupe. However, that and the reordering of my reading pile are my only real issues here, which are small problems as far as I am concerned.

Cast in Angelfire was awesome, but also made me realize how far behind I was in the world that Reine has created. I really enjoyed the story, and the glimpses of what characters and bits I already knew from other books. It was a really gripping read, with mystery and character development that I look forward to following. 

Book Review: I Dream of Dragons by Ashlyn Chase

I Dream of Dragons is the first book in the Boston Dragons series by Ashlyn Chase. While this is the start of a new series, Chase fans will recognize the Boston location and several characters from the Strange Neighbors series. It can stand on its own just fine, but readers that are caught up on the entire reading list from Chase might see some of their favorite characters have a cameo here.

When Rory Arish and his two fiery dragon siblings are run out of their ancestral Irish home, it seems their luck has run out. That is until they arrive in Boston and find a paranormal-friendly apartment building. There is only one problem; Rory's new lair has simultaneously been rented to an infuriating woman who is as stubborn as she is beautiful and will not leave 'her' apartment matter how steamed he may be. Amber McNally is a down-on-her-luck flight attendant. She needs this apartment, and not even a fire-breathing dragon with his Irish charm and scorching good looks is going to scare her away. Holing up in their respective corners, a battle of wills ensues. Who will be the first to blink, or give in to their off-the-charts chemistry and decide to make this unorthodox living arrangement a little more permanent? 

I Dream of Dragons is a great weekend read. Rory and his sister have been falsely accused for theft by leprechauns and banned from Ireland. Amber is looking for a new home and a new start in life. When the two desperate renters clash over an apartment and more things get heated in more ways than one. I like that we also get a look at how Rory's sister settle in and the leprechauns search for the missing gold. This might be a fun, light hearted read with plenty of humor and hot moments. However, it is not simple. There is plenty going on and it kept me eagerly turning pages and looking forward to see what crazy thing was going to happen next. Supernaturals of all sorts, including ghosts and muses, keep things very interesting. I got a kick out of the book and am fast becoming a fan of Chase.

I Dream of Dragons is a fast and fun paranormal romance. I like that there were several interesting new characters introduced and I wonder where Chase will take the dragons and residence of the paranormal club from here.

Book Review: Six Moon Summer (Seasons of the Moon, #1) by S.M. Reine

Six Moon Summer is the first book in the Seasons of the Moon series by S.M. Reine. Unlike the previous books I have read from Reine, this is more for the young and new adult audiences, but I think everyone that enjoys her work can enjoy it. I have the rest of this series already, and if you want to read all of her series in strict chronological order this is where you should start. 

Rylie's been bitten and she is changing. And now she has three months to find a cure before becoming a werewolf forever. Rylie Gresham hates everything about summer camp: the food, the fresh air, the dumb activities, and the other girls in her cabin. The fact that she is here because her parents sent her here as they work out their divorce. But the worst part is probably being bitten by a werewolf. Being a teenager is hard enough, but now she is craving raw flesh and struggles with uncontrollable anger. If she doesn't figure out a way to stop the transformation, then at the end of summer, her life is worse than over. She'll be a monster.

Six Moon Summer is a young adult werewolf book, with a touch of romance, which manages to escape feeling like every other book that can have that statement applied to it. Rylie is dealing with a realistic emotional crisis or two, and I have to say I liked her almost immediately because of her lack of desire for 'girl friends' and that her real friends were mainly guys. I did not like that she had to do the too common mistrust of the girlfriends of said guys, only because she is just so skinny, blond, and all that jazz. However, that minor blip was my only real irritation. The connection between Seth and Rylie is strong, and the romance is done in such a way that it does not overpower the emotional issues Rylie is dealing with our the paranormal aspects of the story. I think she does take the whole introduction to the fact that the world holds real monsters and hunters out there a little too well, but she handles most of her crisis in a similar manor, so it is consistent with her character. I am willing to chalk up the couple little things that did not work perfectly for me up to the fact that this is the first book, in the first series, by the author. Since I really enjoy some of the later series’ I can see where some of the ideas and style that I have come to enjoy so much started.

Six Moon Summer is a good start to the series, and what has become a part of a much bigger world. I really enjoy Reine's writing style and plan on masking it through all of her books, eventually. A great pick for readers that read faster than their favorite authors can keep up, since there is enough of a back list to get you started and more on the way!

Book Review: My Tempting Highlander (Highland Hearts, #3) by Maeve Greyson

My Tempting Highlander is the third book in the Highland Hearts, series by Maeve Greyson. The first two books were My Highland Lover and My Highland Bride. I did not read the first, but quickly caught up with the series and enjoyed the read. I think readers that have read both previous books will get more out of each following book, but each book can be perfectly entering on its own.

Cursed to live forever with neither wife nor child, Ronan Sutherland has watched all he cherishes turn to dust more than once. For hundreds of years, he's been trapped behind the mists of Loch Ness, hoping to identify the one woman who is prophesied to break the spell. Now, at last, the fates have aligned, and he's being sent into the future to fetch her. After a single glimpse, Ronan knows he's been waiting all his life for this passionate woman. Unlike her time-traveling sisters, Mairi Sinclair is perfectly content to remain in the present. As a hospital nurse in Edinburgh, she cherishes the opportunity to put her gift of healing powers to good use. But everything changes the morning a mysterious wolf darts in front of her car. Touching the wounded creature's tawny coat, a tingle surges through her. Yet when she returns with aid, Mairi is shocked to find instead a man with broad shoulders and fire in his eyes—a man who tempts her to unleash the animal within.

My Tempting Highlander is a quick read with much more build up to the final happy ever after than I have been seeing lately. While I was amused at how quickly the 'untrusting' Mairi falls into bed with Ronan I was equally entertained by her other gullible or at least naive moments. Even though she is regularly requesting the whole truth, and not getting it, she does not seem to think things through and put the puzzle pieces together even when I though it pretty obvious. I was also a bit bothered by the fact that her distrust of others that is talked about quite a bit is never explained, and although once she feels lied to she is obviously more than a little angry she does not seem all that slow to actually move things forward. Ronan is an all around honorable guy, that just continually hedges around the truth in fear that he will lose his destined mate. Which strikes me as odd, because seeing how Mairi is from a magical family how shocked do you think she would really be if she knew the whole story? A love story with some really great moments, but that falls into the trap of the major issue being the main characters not having a few very serious discussions earlier in the game. Still a fun read, with plenty of humor, but not as good as I had hoped.

My Tempting Highlander is a good but not fantastic read. I liked the characters, but not always how they interacted. I laughed, I was frustrated, and I had some definite feels. So it was still worth a read, and would be the perfect pick for a rainy weekend.

Book Review: Her Fierce Warrior by Paige Tyler

Her Fierce Warrior by Paige Tyler is the fourth book in the X-Ops series, sixth if you count the novellas in between the other books. The only other one I have read was Her Wild Hero. like many other romance series, having read the whole series gives you a better grasp of the big picture and the characters, but you can still enjoy each book on their own.

Minka isn't sure she should trust the sexy Special Forces soldier who found her. Subjected to horrors, on the run from scientists set on locking her in a cage, Minka is terrified of the monster she's becoming. However, Angelo is the only one who can calm the beast inside her and make her feel safe. But can she trust the way he makes her feel when she's not even sure she can trust herself? Angelo is a soldier that has seen some crazy things, and knows what toll the military way of life can have on everyone involved. When he finds Minka in bad shape, scared and out of control, he does everything to keep her safe. However, he is worried he might cause more damage than the doctors or others that he is trying to protect her from.

Her Fierce Warrior was another emotional paranormal romance from Tyler. The Prologue gives readers a good look at Angelo's mindset, and why he avoids attachments. Minka has managed to escape the doctors that torture and experiment on people in an effort to make hybrids (super soldiers with animal traits). After escaping she needs to get to a safe place, figure out how to control her new abilities, and come to terms with everything that has been done to her. None of this happens until Angelo and his team find her, and get her to safety. The larger plot of the series (who is behind the experiments) and the less scrupulous people n their own department play a big part in the story- and in the relationships between several of the characters that feature in this installment. I like that even the toughest characters have a vulnerable side, and the loyalty and compassion that the main players have. Even with a large amount of character development and emotional catharsis, there is plenty of action and drama here as well. Knowing the bigger picture of the series will definitely make part of the book more important and dramatic, newcomers to the series will find themselves fully immersed in the world and discovering the ins and outs right along side Minka. My only real gripe about the book was that the happy-ever-after was a little out of left field, and not because of the effort of the characters themselves. I would much rather have seen action or a decision made by the people ion the relationship.

Her Fierce Warrior has the suspense, action, and emotional tensions that I have come to expect from Tyler. I think readers that follow any of Tyler's series will enjoy the read, and will be looking to read more from her. 

Book Review: SEAL Wolf in Too Deep by Terry Spear

SEAL Wolf in Too Deep by Terry Spear is the 18th(!) book in the Heart of the Wolf series. Each of the books can do fine as a stand alone, but if you read more than one you will have a better grasp of the pack dynamics and how everyone is connected.

Debbie Renaud is a police diver working on criminal cases with SEAL Allan Rappaport. She admires him greatly for his missions in the Navy, plus he's just plain HOT. Allan seems to share her attraction, but what she doesn't know is that her partner is wolf shifter. Allan is really hung up on his smart, beautiful dive partner, but he can't get involved with a human outside dive duty. Yet when she gets between a werewolf hunter and his intended victim, one of the members of Allan's pack, they run into real trouble, and their lives are altered forever.

SEAL Wolf in Too Deep tells the story of Allan and his new dive partner Debbie. both are fighting their attraction, but for different reasons. Debbie thinks they are both keeping the distance due to respect and professionalism. However, Allan's wolfish side and the responsibilities that come with it are his main reasons. The pair are each strong, smart, and honorable people that love their jobs. both get lost in the process of piecing together clues and solving crime. I like Debbie's reasonableness and adaptability. I was a little taken aback by just how flexible and adaptable she was once the whole werewolf thing comes into play. However, because of the situations and circumstances it did make some sense. I liked Allan's caring and respectful side, but I found his inner confidence that everything would work out in his favor to be a little annoying after awhile. However, at least he kept those thoughts to himself, because I am pretty sure that Debbie would have kicked him, much like I really wanted to do a few times. Despite that, I still enjoyed the read and will keep on with the series.

SEAL Wolf in Too Deep is a solid addition to the series and world by Spear. Thus far the writing quality of the series has stayed fairly consistent, which is hard when you get to a certain number of books in the same larger world. This series is an example of it done right.

Book Review: In the Company of Wolves by Paige Tyler

In the Company of Wolves by Paige Tyler is the third book in the SWAT series. While each book can stand well on its own, I find that having a little prior knowledge of the characters ahead of time, and how the SWAT team work with and relate to each other, makes the read even better. The first two books are Hungry Like the Wolf and Wolf Trouble.

There's a new gang of criminals in town who are organized and ruthless in the extreme. When Eric Becker, along with the rest of the Dallas SWAT team, ends up in the middle of a shootout, he immediately senses werewolves-a lot of them. Turns out, the new bad guys are a pack of wolf shifters. In a spray of gunfire, Becker comes face-to-face with the most gorgeous woman he's ever seen. Becker does the logical thing. He hides her and leaves the scene with the rest of his team. Jayna Winston has no idea why that SWAT guy helped her, but she's glad he did. Ever since she and her pack mates got mixed up with those Eastern European mobsters, everything had pretty much fallen apart. So what's a street-savvy thief like Jayna going to do with a hot alpha-male wolf who's a police officer?

In the Company of Wolves is as high action and suspenseful as the previous books in the series. Becker is a good alpha, but I do not really feel like we got any new insights into him. We get to see his house, hear how he was turned, and see what a great guy he is. However, I never really feel like we got to know him as much as we get to know Jayna. We get to witness her traumatic turning and get deep into the trouble her pack has found itself in. I feel like we get a better look at the inner feelings of Jayna and her packmate Meghan than anyone else. the action was high, the story was a page turner with me catching my breath on occasion. I enjoyed the book, I just felt less of an emotional understanding or attachment to the characters than I had hoped for. It was still a satisfying read, but not as enthralling as I expected.

In the Company of Wolves is a little different from the previous books in the series, because we do not get to see much of the SWAT team as a whole. However, we still get plenty of high action, danger, and werewolves. The characters and action are on par with the series so far, and i am interested to see who finds their One next.

Book Review: Bearing It All by Vonnie Davis

Bearing It All is a contemporary romance, and the third installment in the Highlander's Beloved series by Vonnie Davis. In the mountains of the Scottish Highlands, shape-shifter Ronan Matheson is running free when a desperate woman parachutes out of the sky, directly onto his furry, powerful chest. Instead of clawing her to death, Ronan's inner bear longs to keep her safe. Once he's back in human form, Ronan is amused by the mysterious beauty's fearless attitude, and tempted by her expertly toned physique. But what could she possibly be doing in this isolated stretch of the Highlands? French intelligence agent Anisa Brosseau never imagined she'd be on the CIA's bad side, until she's framed for treason and forced to flee in a stolen drone. Hiding out in a remote cabin, Anisa just needs some time to clear her name. What she doesn't need is a brooding, muscle-bound Scot in a skimpy kilt to drive her crazy with lust. But when Anisa's enemies come knocking on his door, Ronan calls on a secret weapon to protect his turf and the bonny lass he's come to love.

Bearing It All is a fun romance. I know I have read one of the other books in this series, but I think that they can all stand well on their own.  Ronan is a strong man, with strong family bonds, lingering pain from his father's early death, and a need to protect any that he consider part of his family. Anisa is an equally strong woman, with a unique skill set and a strong sense of honor. She has been betrayed by people she trusted, and perhaps the government that she worked for, and is doing everything in her power to make it right.  I liked the interactions between Anisa and Ronan, as well as the complications that Brother Bear adds to the mix. There were several scenes that had me laughing out loud, and I really enjoyed some of the ways Ronan tries to hide his other half. I did think the aspect of the story that has them meeting years ago was a little contrived, but it made the jump into intimacy a little less rushed overall. The continued troubles caused by operatives, and the intrusion of real life kept things interesting. I will admit that by the end I was in a little bit of a hurry for the happy ever after, but was satisfied and humored when it was delivered.

Bearing It All is another win for fans of Davis. If you like strong characters, men in kilts, shifters, or high danger romance then you will enjoy this read. 

Early Book Review: A Silver Wolf Christmas by Terry Spear

A Silver Wolf Christmas by Terry Spear is the seventeenth installment in the Heart of the Wolf series. C.J. Silver is eager to help the new she-wolves in town renovate the old hotel in time for the holidays, especially if it means spending time under the mistletoe with the alluring Laurel MacTire. The bustle in the long abandoned hotel attracts the attention of human ghosthunters out to prove the place haunted, but the bigger problem is keeping them from discovering the werewolves in Silver Town. CJ and Laurel have to pull the wool over everyone’s eyes. Working together is a surprisingly hot holiday treat for two attractive and clever wolf shifters.

A Silver Wolf Christmas might be late in a series, but each book can stand on its own. While having read many (but not all) of the books in the series I recognized some of the characters. Knowing the background of side characters and the werewolf pack add a second layer of enjoyment to the story, but it is not necessary to dive into and enjoy this (or any) installment of the series.

C.J. is a good guy doing his part to keep the town, and his pack, running smoothly. The addition of three eligible sisters to the community is welcome, especially because of the chemistry between him and Laurel. He wants nothing more than to get to know Laurel, but she has other plans. Laurel and her sisters are trying to figure out what happened to her aunt years ago in the Silver Town. Buying and taking on the hotel she is rumored to have been living in is the best way they have to find the truth. However, the community has been very welcoming and the girls do not know who to trust. If something horrible happened to their aunt then it happened ere, and it was likely done by someone with family still in town. Meanwhile, a trio of ghost hunters are sniffing around the hotel with their own agenda. With all that going on with the sparks between Laurel and C.J. help or hurt the search for the full truth? 

A Silver Wolf Christmas is a solid read, and while long time fans of the series will relish the return to Silver Town, I barely remember the last time the series brought me here. I really enjoyed the main characters, and the introduction to many new to me characters. There is plenty of new ground to cover in this series, and I enjoy the balance of connected stories and the ability for each book to also stand well on its own.  

Book Review: Midnight Crossroad by Charlaine Harris

Midnight Crossroad is the first book in the Midnight, Texas series by Charlaine Harris. The audio book version is narrated by Susan Bennet. If you remember, I read the second book in this series, Day Shift, first and promised to go back and read the first. I am very glad I did. 

Welcome to Midnight, Texas, a town with many boarded-up windows and few full-time inhabitants, located at the crossing of Witch Light Road and Davy Road. It's a pretty standard dried-up western town. There's a pawnshop (someone lives in the basement and is seen only at night). There's a diner (people who are just passing through tend not to linger). And there's new resident Manfred Bernardo, who thinks he's found the perfect place to work in private (and who has secrets of his own). Stop at the one traffic light in town, and everything looks normal. That is far from the truth.

Midnight Crossroad made me happy very quickly. The set up for the tiny town, which appears to be a boring and dried up Texas town is a slow build up. Everyone in the town has some secrets and a past they do not want to share. Bobo is just about the most normal character in the town, and he has his own secrets. His grandfather was a white supremacists whose actions have lead those of similar mindset looking for Bobo in search of weapons. Harris fans will see references to the Shakespeare series in Bobo’s backstory (which made me very, very happy). Manfred is Bobo’s newest tenant- and our connection to the Harper Connelly series (and Sookie for that matter). He is a psychic looking for a quiet town and a place that does not ask questions. He has found that in Midnight, but he has also found many questions he wants to ask, but should not. After Manfred gets settled in a bit the trouble comes to town. Bobo’s missing girlfriend is found dead and the hunt for the murderer is on. Outsiders suspect Bobo, but no one in Midnight believes it. Readers and Manfred discover more about this town and its inhabitants than any of those inhabitants might like but answers are found. This has a closer feel to many of Harris’s mysteries than her Sookie series, so readers that became disenchanted with her writing towards the end of Sookie’s run- and after watching any True Blood- will be released with this new series.

A few caveats here. I am not sure who exactly the main character of this series is, although I think it is the town. Readers that do not handle reading books that switch between several points of view will be frustrated here. While this keeps the reader on their toes, it can be very frustrating. Most of the characters are given equal weight, and sketchy pasts. I think the only exception here Is Madonna and Teacher- I have yet to see much about their history. I think rendering the second first book was actually a good thing in this case, because I had a good grasp on who the main players were before I even started. 

Midnight Crossroad is the opening mystery to a series that could be fantastic. I am going to keep reading this series. I still want to know more about these characters, their town, and why they found themselves in Midnight. The changing points of view can be frustrating, but in a series that depends so much on secrets it just might be necessary.  

Book Review: Dragon Fall by Katie MacAlister

Dragon Fall is the first book in the Black Dragons series, which is the fourth sub series in the larger Dragon Sept series by Katie MacAlister. I have missed a few books along the way in the grand scheme of this series but feel like I was able to get back into the swing of things pretty quickly.

 

For Aoife Dakar, seeing is believing-and she's seen some extraordinary things. It's too bad no one else believes that she witnessed a supernatural murder at an outdoor fair. Before Aoife can really get settled after returning to the scene of the crime she encounters a wise-cracking demon dog and a naked man who can shift into a dragon and kiss like a god.  Kostya has no time for a human woman with endless questions, no matter how gorgeous or tempting she is. He must break the curse that has splintered the dragon clans before more of his kind die. But his powerful attraction to Aoife runs much deeper than the physical-and there may be more to her than even his sharp dragon eyes can see. To survive the coming battle for the fate of his race, he needs a mate of true heart and soul.

Dragon Fall is a great return to the world of McAlester’s worlds of dragons and magic. I missed a few books, so I do not know the details of the curse, except for how they are described and play out in this book. However, I felt like I caught up to speed quickly, particularly since Aoife needed to learn everything about the dragons and Jim (the demon dog) for the first time. I liked  Aoife’s nature and outlook on life, how she was able to stay so good natured after being institutionalized by her siblings is astounding to me. Kostya has been through so much as well, and the pair have great understanding and a strong connection because of their ordeals.  Figuring out just where they stand with each other, and with the magical community as a whole is full of choices and interesting encounters. However, do not think that the story is all doom and gloom because of their hard lives, the curse, and so on. There are plenty of laughs to be had. I really love how MacAlister makes me laugh on a regular basis through simply but effective moments in dialogue and situations.  

Dragon Fall reminds me of what had me eagerly reading the Aisling Grey books in the beginning of the Dragon Sept series. The characters are multi dimensional, quirky, and likable even when you want to kick them. The combination of action and humor is what made me a MacAlister fan to begin with, and that balance is in full effect here. 

Book Review: Omega by S.M. Reine

Omega is the first book in the War of the Alphas series by S.M. Reine. Ten years ago, Deirdre Tombs died. When she was reborn the next day, Deirdre had become a shapeshifter who can't shift shapes. Nobody knows what animal she's supposed to be. She's definitely not a werewolf. The Alpha, Rylie Gresham, can't force her to transform like other members of her pack. Now Deirdre is considered an omega, the weakest shapeshifter in the pack, a vulnerable position. When Everton Stark publicly begins his efforts to be the new dominant Alpha, the only Alpha. Stark can make every shapeshifter obey him by force of will alone, except for Deirdre. Now she is the only chance to defeat Stark, by surviving undercover in his den. But can an omega's will be stronger than that of a charismatic, deadly Alpha like Everton Stark? 

Omega is a strong opening to a series that promises high action, plots, and subterfuge. Deirde has been treated as a throw away since the Genesis that changed so many into shifters and other paranormal creatures. She has no love for the current system, but does not like that Stark is compelling innocent shifters to kill indiscriminately.  Her ability to withstand the compulsion makes her the only hope in a fight against a violent and relentless Stark taking over. Even when his charismatic words hit the right cords, his ruthless nature leave readers and Deirde alike knowing that he is not quite right. Add in a partner from Riley's pack as a partner, and old friend that has fallen into Starks fold, and a right hand man with more violence in him than Stark and Deirde really has her work cut out for her. The danger and tension is high throughout the entire book. My only complaint is in the very end of the book. While two things that happened were fairly expected based on the build up, one shocked me and not in a happy way. I know I do not need to agree with every plot turn, and the fact that it effected me so deeply means that I was very involved in the story and characters, so the author was doing their job and doing it well. 

Omega is a solid beginning to a series that promises well developed characters and heart rending action. I am not sure what the long game will end up being for Deirde, but discovering where she going from here promises lots of action, tough choices, and high tension moments. If these sounds like a good thing, and you are not looking for a lightweight book to keep you smiling on a weekend or beach trip, then I would pick it up. I think I will need some recovery time before picking up Beta or Alpha ( the next two books in the series) but I am sure I will follow this through to the end.

Terry Spear’s Spotlight Tour for SEAL Wolf Hunting

Did you see my 4 star review of SEAL Wolf Hunting? 

Well, here is some more information with an excerpt and giveaway!

Title: SEAL Wolf Hunting

Author: Terry Spear

Series: Heart of the Wolf, #16

Pubdate: July 7^th, 2015

ISBN: 9781402293825

Paul Cunningham has eluded many traps in his long career as a Navy SEAL, but there’s no way out of this one. On a rare visit home, he gets “volunteered” for a local charity bachelor auction, and the community is counting on him. Then he discovers that the sexy she-wolf with the winning ticket is Lori Greypaw—the one woman he could never resist. And she has plans for Paul that go way beyond a simple date. For the first time in his bachelor life, this alpha wolf SEAL is going to have to prove his worth…

USA Today bestselling author Terry Spear has written over fifty paranormal and medieval Highland historical romances. In 2008 Heart of the Wolf was named a Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year. A retired officer of the U.S. Army Reserves, Terry also creates award-winning teddy bears that have found homes all over the world and is raising two Havanese puppies. She lives in Crawford, Texas.

Buy Links:

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1cH0BAK

BAM: http://bit.ly/1F4wz0A

B&N: http://bit.ly/1JzDfLV

Chapters: http://bit.ly/1cH0LYK

Indiebound: http://bit.ly/1cH0N2Z

Kobo: http://bit.ly/1MiUT4f

Meet the Bachelors of Cottage Grove

Full Name: Allan Rappaport

Occupation: SEAL and now Special Undercover Operative

Height: 6 ft

Hair Color: Dark brown hair

Eye Color: Green

Age: 30

Wolf: Gray

Originally from: Northern Montana

Where is your go-to spot in Cottage Grove to relax and unwind? I love diving—for treasure, lost items. It’s another world under the water. It’s like a new, unexplored wilderness. Now, if I could just find a she-wolf who loved diving as much as I do, that would be even more perfect.

An Excerpt:

Allan was next up, and the bidding was going strong as he got into the fun of the auction, flexing his muscles and smiling brightly.

“Way to go, SEAL!” Lori and Rose shouted.

“Take off your shirt!” Emma shouted.

Catherine whooped and whistled. Paul had to smile at Emma and Catherine.

Lori’s face reddened a bit, probably because her own grandma had shouted out the recommendation.

Allan began unbuttoning his shirt slowly and the crowd went wild.

Paul laughed. He hadn’t thought that a honey-do bachelor auction would be anything like this. Then again, Emma was a wolf and they could change the dynamics of a situation in a heartbeat. The ranch hands made a big deal of jerking their shirts out of their waistbands and then starting to unbutton them.

A woman shouted, “Just the shirts, gentlemen.”

And that had everyone laughing.

Stripper music began to play, and Paul removed his shirt to the beat like the others did.

Clapping hands, wolf whistles, and shouts indicated the women were just as excited to bid for the SEALs as they were for the cowboys.

Paul tossed his shirt to Lori for safekeeping. When she grabbed the shirt and held it close, he smiled at her.

Allan went for two hundred and fifty dollars to a lady wearing a pink cowboy hat…

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