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The Wolf Pack #4
Treacherous
From the award-winning author of Taming the Wolf and Recipe for Temptation comes a novella about secrets, forbidden passion, and the devastating consequences of betrayal....
Sterling and Celeste Wolf have been married for sixteen years. Although Sterling is the ideal husband and father, he can’t give Celeste the material trappings she secretly craves. And then she meets Grant Rutherford—a sexy, brilliant surgeon at the hospital where she works. Grant is everything Celeste has ever wanted in a man, and the sizzling chemistry between them takes her breath away. But she loves her husband and children, and the last thing she wants to do is hurt them. But when she and Grant succumb to their mutual attraction one night, Celeste is forced to make a heartbreaking choice between the life she and Sterling have built—and the life she has always yearned for....
Sterling and Celeste Wolf have been married for sixteen years. Although Sterling is the ideal husband and father, he can’t give Celeste the material trappings she secretly craves. And then she meets Grant Rutherford—a sexy, brilliant surgeon at the hospital where she works. Grant is everything Celeste has ever wanted in a man, and the sizzling chemistry between them takes her breath away. But she loves her husband and children, and the last thing she wants to do is hurt them. But when she and Grant succumb to their mutual attraction one night, Celeste is forced to make a heartbreaking choice between the life she and Sterling have built—and the life she has always yearned for....
106 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 12, 2011
76 people are currently reading
202 people want to read
About the author
Maureen Smith
74 books817 followerspseudonym Naomi Chase
Maureen Smith is a USA Today bestselling author who has garnered critical acclaim for her sensual romances and heart-pounding romantic suspense. She has won a Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award (nominated for seven total) and numerous Emma Awards. She also writes sexy women’s fiction under the award-winning pen name Naomi Chase.
Before becoming an author, Maureen interned with a former U.S. presidential candidate, worked at the famous Watergate complex, and enjoyed a stint as a reporter and freelance writer. She is married to her college sweetheart and they have two children.
Visit Maureen’s website and join her mailing list to receive updates about new books, current projects, and upcoming appearances.
Maureen Smith is a USA Today bestselling author who has garnered critical acclaim for her sensual romances and heart-pounding romantic suspense. She has won a Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award (nominated for seven total) and numerous Emma Awards. She also writes sexy women’s fiction under the award-winning pen name Naomi Chase.
Before becoming an author, Maureen interned with a former U.S. presidential candidate, worked at the famous Watergate complex, and enjoyed a stint as a reporter and freelance writer. She is married to her college sweetheart and they have two children.
Visit Maureen’s website and join her mailing list to receive updates about new books, current projects, and upcoming appearances.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
January 30, 2012
I always wanted to know the story behind Sterling and Celeste's break up. Before reading their story I almost felt sorry for Celeste, but after reading their story I Hate That Selfish, Self-serving heartless, money grubbing wench. I felt no sympathy for her at all and I disliked Grant even more. Grant may have been more successful and had money, but he was never half the man Sterling was. I loved Sterling and he deserve so much better. He truly was the better man. Celeste was always more concerned about what she didn't have than appreciating the great man she was blessed to get, but never deserved. There was no excuse for her actions and Grant was truly a home-wrecker. They both put themselves in temptations way. Celeste was weak....Weak willed, weak minded and weak moral-ed. First she turns to Sterling on the rebound then traps him into marriage with the oldest trick in the book, yet she still wasn't satisfied. Women like her turn good men bitter and make it hard for the Right woman who comes along next. She was a disgrace. She ruined Sterling's future and chances to go to college, but being a true man of character and a stand up guy, he did the right thing. I believe he grew to love Celeste, although I have no doubt he didn't love her initially. Marriage takes work and nurturing just like a garden. Sterling was a Hero, however no matter how you slice it Grant was a toad and Celeste was a garden tool. They deserved each other. Great story though...I love Maureen Smith's style. LONG LIVE THE WOLF PACK!!
Reviewed by: D.Lee BRAB Online Book Club
Reviewed by: D.Lee BRAB Online Book Club
December 8, 2012
This story gives the background on Sterling and Celeste's marriage and how she ended up cheating on him.
I don't condone what Celeste did. Sterling was a good husband and father, and she was wrong for stepping out on him. Even as teens he did right by her by marrying her when she got pregnant. But I didn't hate her as much as I thought I would. I thought she would be portrayed as this cold-hearted, money-grubbing b*tch. There was some of that, but I actually felt a little sorry for her. Mostly because she lost her sons because of what she did.
In Inferno (review here: http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...), she gave the impression that she didn't take the kids because she didn't want to hurt Sterling anymore than she already had. After reading this, I realized the truth is, they wouldn't have gone with her anyway. Especially not Marcus.
As for Grant...Ugh! He had no business showing up at their house. None.
This is not a romance, so don't expect a happily ever after. But if you're a fan of the Wolf Pack, you should read this to find out exactly what happened all those years ago.
I don't condone what Celeste did. Sterling was a good husband and father, and she was wrong for stepping out on him. Even as teens he did right by her by marrying her when she got pregnant. But I didn't hate her as much as I thought I would. I thought she would be portrayed as this cold-hearted, money-grubbing b*tch. There was some of that, but I actually felt a little sorry for her. Mostly because she lost her sons because of what she did.
In Inferno (review here: http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...), she gave the impression that she didn't take the kids because she didn't want to hurt Sterling anymore than she already had. After reading this, I realized the truth is, they wouldn't have gone with her anyway. Especially not Marcus.
As for Grant...Ugh! He had no business showing up at their house. None.
This is not a romance, so don't expect a happily ever after. But if you're a fan of the Wolf Pack, you should read this to find out exactly what happened all those years ago.
February 5, 2016
Thoroughly ENJOYED the look back at the very beginning of the Wolf Pack...watching the love, passion, frustration and betrayal that this family goes through gives DEEPER insight into this INTRIGUING cast of characters and their journey. Mrs. Smith has DONE it AGAIN!
March 15, 2024
Celeste and Stanton Wolf are experiencing a rough patch in their marriage, and it's starting to affect those around them…including their sons Michael and Marcus. One reckless moment changed their family dynamic…forever.
I enjoyed this novelette by @authormaureensmith , although I didn't agree with some of the decisions made. The story flowed effortlessly and my heart went out to young Marcus. My favorite characters are a tie between Michael and Marcus, where my least favorite character goes to Celeste.
If you haven't already, go read this book!
I enjoyed this novelette by @authormaureensmith , although I didn't agree with some of the decisions made. The story flowed effortlessly and my heart went out to young Marcus. My favorite characters are a tie between Michael and Marcus, where my least favorite character goes to Celeste.
If you haven't already, go read this book!
April 14, 2015
This story should be read before Taming the Wolf to give readers a basis from which references are made. If you have been reading the series from book one, you will already have some details from this story.
Wow, Celeste was something else. I can understand how unfulfillment can burden someone. What I cannot understand is how someone can let it interfere with parenthood. I guess someone has to be mighty weak to let their needs take priority over their children's needs. Sterling sacrificed along with Celeste, maybe even more so since he was willing to make an honest woman out of her and claim a child that may not have been his. It's unfortunate that the love of her husband and children was not enough.
Well-written and a good story. It's a short one though. I would love to know how Celeste really felt after Asha and Sterling hooked up...
Wow, Celeste was something else. I can understand how unfulfillment can burden someone. What I cannot understand is how someone can let it interfere with parenthood. I guess someone has to be mighty weak to let their needs take priority over their children's needs. Sterling sacrificed along with Celeste, maybe even more so since he was willing to make an honest woman out of her and claim a child that may not have been his. It's unfortunate that the love of her husband and children was not enough.
Well-written and a good story. It's a short one though. I would love to know how Celeste really felt after Asha and Sterling hooked up...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2013
It was refreshing learning the history of Sterling & Celesta and their two sons Michael & Marcus. Sterling is such a loving man, husband, father, brother...A TRUE Role Model. And I truly understand why his boys has such unconditional love for their dad and want nothing but the best for him. Reading the previous books I couldn't understand their mother actually I still will never understand how a mother could leave her children; however I sympathize with her, a women marrying out of obligation and really trying find true love and follow her dreams. KUDOS TO STERLING
March 1, 2014
Wonderful
I never want to see a family torn apart but I think everyone is too hard on Celeste. She endured a lot and I know she loves her children but she needed to be allowed to find h happiness. How many times have men left relationships when it they are going nowhere? Too many to count. I think she was brave to leave whether than stay and remain miserable and in turn make her son's suffer as well. She had remained in her situation for a long time simply enduring. Women shouldn't always be forced to be the martyrs. Great book and story line.
I never want to see a family torn apart but I think everyone is too hard on Celeste. She endured a lot and I know she loves her children but she needed to be allowed to find h happiness. How many times have men left relationships when it they are going nowhere? Too many to count. I think she was brave to leave whether than stay and remain miserable and in turn make her son's suffer as well. She had remained in her situation for a long time simply enduring. Women shouldn't always be forced to be the martyrs. Great book and story line.
June 20, 2011
Maureen Smith can do no wrong!! If you've followed the Wolf family stories then this one will really answer a lot of questions regarding Sterling and Celeste's relationship, and the relationship with their children. This novella is just so well written, it has everything love, passion, thoughtfulness, betrayal, and of course treachery. Going back to the beginning really helps readers to see why this characters (Celeste, Sterling, Marcus, & Michael) are who they are today....A+++
July 29, 2016
This book was good but I hated the way Sterling lost his wife. He did a lot to try and keep Celeste happy but it wasn't enough. The kids suffered the most from their mom's betrayal. I also thought Grant was a bit arrogant and a bit pushy. But its great to get the story behind Sterling and Celeste's break up.
February 11, 2014
A real tearjerker. A necessary part of the foundation for The Wolf Pack series.
February 6, 2026
Long Live the Wolf Pack
The Wolf Family is a close knit family. Two marriages headed by two brothers. Both having successful marriages. Older brother Sterling and younger brother Stanton were happy family men but the question is are they as successful as they seem. This was a really good start to the series. Maureen Smith did a really awesome job with the beginning. You learn about the family and make you ready for more.
The Wolf Family is a close knit family. Two marriages headed by two brothers. Both having successful marriages. Older brother Sterling and younger brother Stanton were happy family men but the question is are they as successful as they seem. This was a really good start to the series. Maureen Smith did a really awesome job with the beginning. You learn about the family and make you ready for more.
February 2, 2020
Wow, Heartbreaking
This is such a sad and upsetting story. I kept looking for some redeeming aspect of the Mom and that Doc, but I really couldn't find any.
How horrible for Marcus. Sterling is such a good guy, unfortunately, that isn't helpful, at least in this book.
All around disturbing story. I'm not a fan of Celeste.
This is such a sad and upsetting story. I kept looking for some redeeming aspect of the Mom and that Doc, but I really couldn't find any.
How horrible for Marcus. Sterling is such a good guy, unfortunately, that isn't helpful, at least in this book.
All around disturbing story. I'm not a fan of Celeste.
March 19, 2025
Wow!
I did not see that coming. I know, I know, how could I miss that turnout. I guess I didn't want to believe it. This is my first book in this series, so I get that I'm might be missing some things. My heart broke for this part of the Wolf pack. I loved the way the author told this story and am ready to dive into the rest of the series.
I did not see that coming. I know, I know, how could I miss that turnout. I guess I didn't want to believe it. This is my first book in this series, so I get that I'm might be missing some things. My heart broke for this part of the Wolf pack. I loved the way the author told this story and am ready to dive into the rest of the series.
Did Not Finish
October 12, 2020Don’t care to read about cheating especially since I love Sterling
November 19, 2020
Good book
March 20, 2024
Great read
I really enjoyed this book can't wait to more on to the next book and finish enjoying this series .
I really enjoyed this book can't wait to more on to the next book and finish enjoying this series .
July 1, 2016
Obsessed with the Wolf Pack
I started reading this thinking "by the end of this novel, I won't hate Celeste so much." Lol WRONG! I hate her even more now that I have all the details. Now I see why Marcus hadn't spoken to the women in 20 something years. She's so typical. And in one of thee previous books where she mentions maybe having feelings for Sterling especially after seeing him with Asha, to that I must say two things: money won't bring you happiness and the grass isn't always greener on the other side - things she should have seriously considered before tearing apart her family. Amazingly written though. I love a series that connects like this. I also love that she did not start off with this but went back in time and gave us the full story. Another win for Smith!
I started reading this thinking "by the end of this novel, I won't hate Celeste so much." Lol WRONG! I hate her even more now that I have all the details. Now I see why Marcus hadn't spoken to the women in 20 something years. She's so typical. And in one of thee previous books where she mentions maybe having feelings for Sterling especially after seeing him with Asha, to that I must say two things: money won't bring you happiness and the grass isn't always greener on the other side - things she should have seriously considered before tearing apart her family. Amazingly written though. I love a series that connects like this. I also love that she did not start off with this but went back in time and gave us the full story. Another win for Smith!
January 8, 2016
Great for "Wolf Pack" fans!
This was great read for anyone who's read Maureen's other books about the Wolf brothers (Recipe for Seduction and Taming of the Wolf) and their friend, Quinten (Tempt Me at Midnight). Maureen is hands down one of the greatest romance writers of our time. Please read her other books first as this one is somewhat a companion for the others. Don't worry--you'll get through them quickly because they are all good! My only complaint was it was too short! I think it was meant to be, though, so that's just a warning for you all because I think you should read. I don't think there's anything shocking or new in this book, but it's fascinating to see Celeste and Sterling's story played out. Thank you, Maureen!
This was great read for anyone who's read Maureen's other books about the Wolf brothers (Recipe for Seduction and Taming of the Wolf) and their friend, Quinten (Tempt Me at Midnight). Maureen is hands down one of the greatest romance writers of our time. Please read her other books first as this one is somewhat a companion for the others. Don't worry--you'll get through them quickly because they are all good! My only complaint was it was too short! I think it was meant to be, though, so that's just a warning for you all because I think you should read. I don't think there's anything shocking or new in this book, but it's fascinating to see Celeste and Sterling's story played out. Thank you, Maureen!
June 11, 2016
Wow
Short but packing a big wallop, this is the story of how Celeste and Sterling's marriage fell apart. Painfully realistic., in a few short pages we witness how people can quickly lose sight of what's important and make self centered decisions when we feel unfulfilled. Sad but powerful. Helps us really understand both Michael and Marcus as adults in previous books. I tried really hard not to judge Celeste, and I know she was in a lot of emotional pain to betray her husband the wat she dud, but when you read about the betrayal, I couldn't help but be angry with her too., because her behavior didn't just affect her but her family too. As always, excellent work by the author.
Short but packing a big wallop, this is the story of how Celeste and Sterling's marriage fell apart. Painfully realistic., in a few short pages we witness how people can quickly lose sight of what's important and make self centered decisions when we feel unfulfilled. Sad but powerful. Helps us really understand both Michael and Marcus as adults in previous books. I tried really hard not to judge Celeste, and I know she was in a lot of emotional pain to betray her husband the wat she dud, but when you read about the betrayal, I couldn't help but be angry with her too., because her behavior didn't just affect her but her family too. As always, excellent work by the author.
April 29, 2012
This story gives the background of Celeste and Sterling marriage and a woman who truly did love her sons Michael and Marcus. Also helps to see how their mother abandonment to the family help shapes them into the men they are. Now Celeste and Sterling are sizzling couple but unfortunately, due to money struggles, a desire for continued education, and settling due to getting pregnant (although Sterling is a honorable man who stepped up and try to love and give his family the best the only way he knows how). It’s a great read and we are also introduced to Sterling’s brother Stanton and his family.
April 13, 2012
I love the stories and characters Maureen Smith creates. A lot of readers are upset with Celeste, however, it was insightful to see how a woman who has a good man could still be unhappy.
I always thought that if I had kids I could never leave them behind. But in Celeste's case, her kids did not want to stay with her. So what choice did she have? I did not see Celeste as a money-loving, conceited person. She had her dreams and she fell in love with someone else.
We all know that Sterling finally finds love with Asha. So Celese cheating on him was all for the best. Even the best of marriages fail.
Currently reading Inferno (The Wolf Pack Series) and I'm loving that story as well.
I always thought that if I had kids I could never leave them behind. But in Celeste's case, her kids did not want to stay with her. So what choice did she have? I did not see Celeste as a money-loving, conceited person. She had her dreams and she fell in love with someone else.
We all know that Sterling finally finds love with Asha. So Celese cheating on him was all for the best. Even the best of marriages fail.
Currently reading Inferno (The Wolf Pack Series) and I'm loving that story as well.
March 19, 2015
Since I am reading the entire Wolf series I couldn't not read this book which sheds background on Marcus and Micheal's relationship issues. Although Celeste was wrong for cheating instead of just walking away I can understand her not being happy in her marriage. Always walk away before things get to the point where you have to consider cheating. I am a firm believer that two people should NEVER stay together because of their children as they grow up with their own emotional scars and baggage. Again looking forward to the next book on my list to read from this series Tempt Me At Midnight which is book 3 but I skipped ahead to read this one.
March 20, 2012
I really like Maureen's writings, but I like happy endings this book did not have a happy ending. A family was destroyed based on the actions of thier mother/wife, not intentionally, but nevertheless, it was destroyed. Will have to see the next book in the series to see what happened to Celeste and Sterling. The title of the book matched the situation.
November 7, 2013
big fan of ms. smith. love the wolf series... had to read again to get read for Manning's story. Again, I loved this book!
April 28, 2014
I loved it...Nothing more to say ....It is a must read...I don't believe in spoilers..Read it you will be hooked.
December 13, 2013
Great story!
August 8, 2014
Treacherous
Very good book. I hated to see it end the way it did. I guess I'll have to catch the next book to see if they reconciled the marriage.
Very good book. I hated to see it end the way it did. I guess I'll have to catch the next book to see if they reconciled the marriage.
September 11, 2016
Celeste was a disturbed woman.
July 30, 2014
As a die heart Maureen Smith fan I cannot get enough of the "Wolf Pack". This was the perfect little look back in their history
January 3, 2015
Wow, really Celeste!!! That is why I like Sterling so much!!! He is such a real man !!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews