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Three days of hell, in charge, and running out of antacids.

As the pack’s Beta, Robert needs to watch over the Vasi werewolf pack for a few days. He hates the responsibility, but his job is to dissolve any problems while his alpha honeymoons. Nevertheless, trouble comes to town and her name is Esther. She's beguiling, beautiful and picks his pocket. Although Robert doesn’t trust her, he still wants to possess her.

Esther arrived in Chicago with the intention of slaying a vampire named Daedalus. While trailing her quarry, she encounters Robert who unhinges her world. He doesn’t know her trade, and she doesn’t know his connection to the vampire. Disturbed by her attraction to this unusual werewolf, she can’t decide which prey to hunt. The one who’s stolen her heart or the one who’ll fill her bank account.

Hot graphic werewolf sex, growing body parts, and one pissed off Nosferatu.

96 pages, ebook

First published January 1, 2011

83 people are currently reading
431 people want to read

About the author

Annie Nicholas

73 books1,135 followers
Annie Nicholas hibernates in the rural, green mountains of Vermont where she dreams of different worlds, heroes, and heroines. When spring arrives the stories pour from her, in hopes to share them with the masses one day.

Mother, daughter, wife are some of the hats she happily wears while trudging after her cubs through the hills and dales. The four seasons an inspiration and muse.

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5 stars
251 (38%)
4 stars
217 (33%)
3 stars
147 (22%)
2 stars
32 (4%)
1 star
7 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
Profile Image for Lauren Seiberling (Romance Novel Giveaways).
649 reviews408 followers
April 18, 2019
Loved it!

I love this series so much that, although having read it years ago, I went back to re-read it. And with each book, I find something new to love about the series!

It's interesting to remember that all members of this pack were omegas in their previous packs, Robert included. Knowing that and reading how he really thrived in the role of beta made his story that much more fun to read.

And Esther...She was certainly not what I was expecting to find, but there she was. And to think that everything changed just because of one teeny, tiny action on her part...(not spoiling it!!!)

Can't wait to catch up with these two in more books!!!

(I was given a copy of this book in consideration of my honest thoughts)
Profile Image for Leopardwolf.
592 reviews7 followers
April 22, 2019
OK I have to declare that I absolutely love the writing style of Annie nicholas - they way she makes her characters seem sooo human and real (it doesn't matter what species they are) the interactions between everyone and the way the storylines flow like a liquid chocolate river - you never know where the river will meander to or when a massive rock will suddenly be in the middle of the bend - I also love the way she writes with humour, even when you wouldn't expect humour to be able to lighten the mood - she manages it superbly.
All that being said - I absolutely adored this book. The way that Robert may not be the most obvious beta nor does he feel like he can handle the role - but in my mind that makes him he perfect beta for the Vasi Pack. I loved the way that Esther stood up to him from the first and didn't change her attitude to him after she found out what he was. That made my day. She wasn't scared of him - but for him! That melted my heart. Not to mention her reaction when he got hurt (not giving any spoilers) but I loved that scene x
Not to mention never ever pee her off when she's changing a tyre!
Profile Image for Mary Lou Hoffman.
1,954 reviews35 followers
April 17, 2019
BETA is the third book in the Vanguard series. Though it will probably stand on its own, I wouldn’t recommend it as such. Instead, read them all to better understand the characters and how they relate to one another.

I love Robert. His daily countdown until Spice and Eric return is cute and relatable to anyone who has had to endure unwanted responsibility.

Esther is no Buffy! Yes, any time someone says slayer, the comparison will be made, but there is no comparison. Esther is all woman – beautiful, intelligent, talented, and in control of herself. Esther doesn’t need a posse, but one hunka werewolf can’t be denied.

I loved the fast pace and stayed up past my bedtime to finish it. I do hope we find out in a later book who hired Esther to slay Daedalus. I have my suspicions; I hope I’m wrong.

Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC, my opinions are my own and are given freely.



Title: BETA
Series: Vanguards #3
Category /Genre: Paranormal Romance
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused
Received from: Annie Nicholas
Profile Image for Linda Levine.
4,640 reviews25 followers
April 23, 2019
I enjoyed this third book in the series. Robert and Esther have a very interesting romance. When they meet, the sparks fly and so do the weapons.

Esther is not sure what to make of Robert and his friends. She is used to hunting vampires and not befriending them.

The story has a great mix of romance, action and humor too.

While you could read it as a standalone, I recommend reading the whole series in order.

I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
Profile Image for Leopardwolf.
592 reviews7 followers
April 15, 2019
Beta

OK I have to declare that I absolutely love the writing style of Annie nicholas - they way she makes her characters seem sooo human and real (it doesn't matter what species they are) the interactions between everyone and the way the storylines flow like a liquid chocolate river - you never know where the river will meander to or when a massive rock will suddenly be in the middle of the bend - I also love the way she writes with humour, even when you wouldn't expect humour to be able to lighten the mood - she manages it superbly.
All that being said - I absolutely adored this book. The way that Robert may not be the most obvious beta nor does he feel like he can handle the role - but in my mind that makes him he perfect beta for the Vasi Pack. I loved the way that Esther stood up to him from the first and didn't change her attitude to him after she found out what he was. That made my day. She wasn't scared of him - but for him! That melted my heart. Not to mention her reaction when he got hurt (not giving any sloilers) but I loved that scene x
Not to mention, never ever pee her off when she's changing a tyre!
Profile Image for Patti.
1,502 reviews13 followers
April 22, 2019
Overall rating: 4.6

This short but sweet novella leads you through Robert’s trials as he covers for the Alpha for a few days. He works closely with their Nosferatu pack mentor and finds himself in the middle of an attempted hit. The tale flows really quick and because of it, it feels shorter than the last. The resolution is quite surprising and had me saying “ NICE!!!”. Truly looking forward to more tales about this werewolf pack. All my reviews are always voluntarily written.
1,896 reviews13 followers
April 19, 2019
Between a rock and a hard place that’s how Esther was feeling. She was a professional slayer and had to make a decision because her heart was struggling with her mind. The Beta in charge of the Pack! A nightmare for Robert. A sexy human offered him her charms, and he was elated with the attention he was receiving. Men! But as always, things are not as they seem and soon, he was risking a lot more than his heart. Liked Robert character smart, sweet and a protector. I was amused with the slayer. She was like a cat in heat and up to no good. Interesting Daedalus situation that left me intrigued and hoping for more. An interesting, entertaining and funny story that I enjoyed.
Profile Image for Andrea Weatherill.
5 reviews3 followers
April 15, 2019
It takes a slayer to bring out the wolf. . .

A geeky beta who doesn't want to be a beta, gets caught up in slayer business when he has business of his own!
Sugar and Co. don't take staring roles in this book, instead it's Rob and his new found love, with the occasional popup from the Vasi pack mentor.

I absolutely loved this book! It was fast paced and hard to put down. Unfortunately it lost a star because Annie was cruel and left questions unanswered! Definitely NOT a stand alone book!
Profile Image for Kristen Lewendon.
8,429 reviews63 followers
April 11, 2019
I loved Robert. There’s just something so compelling about the Beta: all the protective take-charge instincts of an alpha but with a slightly softer edge. It took me a bit to warm up to Esther. I think a lot of it had to do with the fact that I was already so in love with Robert and Daedalus, that when she shows up, intent to hurt them without hearing them out, it activated my “us versus them” mentality and she was on the wrong side of the equation. I really enjoyed seeing them work out their differences. There’re still a few plot threads that didn’t get fully wrapped up that now I want to pull on to see what unravels.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Connor.
1,464 reviews41 followers
April 11, 2019
I like the Vanguard series and was happy to see Robert find his mate. I couldn't help but wonder whether Esther knew Connie from the Angler series. That could be a fun twist, maybe finding out she knows Colby and Red.

The plot was not predictable, but I was irritated by Robert's stupidity, going to meet a known foe without backup. He got lucky. The book was very short and I felt it could have benefited from a more lengthy character transition for Esther. It was enjoyable but ended too quickly.
3,054 reviews17 followers
April 9, 2019
My favorite from this Terrific Series (so far)!!

Wonderful story of Robert, pack beta, who is “acting Alpha” while Eric is on his honeymoon. He must use all his strength and wiles to keep troublemakers from splitting the pack, slayers from killing Daedalus, and figure out what to do with the feisty and unruly Esther, who is all too human and all too interesting to his wolf.

Robert just wants to survive the next three days, but circumstance is not cooperating. Delightful journey of relationship and pack. Devoured in one sitting.

*** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book ***
Profile Image for Gina.
2,383 reviews31 followers
April 11, 2019
While the Beta is in charge he has to deal with a disgruntled werewolf and and a hot assassin named Esther who is hunting the vampire Daedalus. But Esther gets under Robert's skin and Esther is starting to rethink her employment as her feelings for Robert grow. If only he could trust her.
Profile Image for celticminx (aka: kristi or "k").
115 reviews13 followers
January 25, 2012
I have to admit that I do like the Vanguard series and this story was no exception.

Esther and Robert are polar opposites. She's a knockout, he's a geek. She exudes self-confidence and he has insecurities. She’s a human, he’s a werewolf. She’s a slayer, he’s a beta trying to find his way until his Alpha returns from his honeymoon in three days and Robert is counting the minutes.

Esther is gathering some Intel on a Nosferatu Prime vampire that she has been offered a contract hit on. Not one to jump straight into the frying pan some legwork must be completed before she will decide whether or not to accept. While tracking down more info on her target she meets Robert, unawares that his is her target’s friend. The two have an instant attraction, but Esther has a job to do and can’t allow any girly feelings to get in her way.

It’s enjoyable watching these two tussle with their feelings. Esther is fighting with whether she should accept the contract because she has such strong feelings for Robert and wants to see where it takes them. And Robert not knowing if he can trust Esther since she has both stolen from him, lied to him and keeps pointing a gun at him. But he sure does like her.

Aside from dealing with Esther, Robert is trying very hard to be a good beta and handle the problems that arise within the pack. Most pointedly is a bully named Talon looking to challenge him while the Alpha is away. Robert knows that he should kill Talon, but he feels that would be tantamount to murder. Can he hold everything together and trust the woman he has such strong feelings for? Time will tell!

This was a great quick read. Strongly suggest it for anyone needing a quick PNR fix.
Profile Image for Sarah.
2,131 reviews30 followers
March 1, 2014
I'v got to say Robert wasn't my favourite but not because I didn't like him more because he's not a big character in the other books but now after seeing him in a whole new light I love him. He has this inner steal about but mostly shows a shy unsure persona until his beta side comes out the a sexy techy geek comes out. When Esther first came into picture is wasn't sure they would suit each other, she's a very high strong sexy assassin who goes for what she wants and Roberts a unsure reluctant temp leader while Eric on his honeymoon with Spice.
This story was about Robert and Esther but also has a lot of drama to do with Daedalus and Sugar and Sugar reluctance to convict to being a vampire. I liked that it's not all roses which u get with most romance HEA, I hope they sort something out in next book feel really sorry for Daedalus.
Profile Image for Crystal's Quirky Reviews.
186 reviews10 followers
October 10, 2015
ARC- Book 3 of the Vanguard series. This series just keeps reeling me in tighter and tighter! I'm thoroughly enjoying every aspect of this series and I can't find anything I don't like about it. While Eric, new Alpha and his new mate, Spice goes on their honeymoon, Beta Robert is left with handling his new pack. A job he has no interest whatsoever in until running across, Esther when she pickpockets him and he chases her down.
Profile Image for Shaly.
1,198 reviews
January 10, 2018
What the fuck! Who the hell put the contract on Daedalus's head? Not only are these books super short..they always leave me with questions!!!!!!!!!

Esther...what a homely name..is an excellent recruit for the pack, she's tough and can handle anything in a fight! Robert is just as dorky as Eric but fierce when he needs to be..they make a good match!
Profile Image for Dee.
251 reviews
May 14, 2014
This is a cute little series. I started it yesterday and on my fourth book today. its not bad. Because they are short all the characters instantly fall for each other, but sometimes that what you are looking for.
Profile Image for Maddy Barone.
Author 25 books227 followers
July 26, 2011
Another great read in the Vasi/Vanguards series. Robert turns out to make a darned god hero!
Profile Image for Lynnette.
123 reviews5 followers
March 21, 2014
This third installment was really good and the series is developing really well. The story was about the packs beta Robert and his mate Esther. A good short story.
Profile Image for Jen.
1,088 reviews13 followers
April 26, 2020
I loved this episode of the Vasi story! Robert is now acting as Beta to Eric, and currently serving as the pack leader in his Alpha's absence, even though he feels much more comfortable operating as an Omega. Unbelievably, despite his success in the role and everyone's support of him, he still feels out of place and unsure of himself. Especially when it comes to women, and especially with Esther. He's sure that she'd lying to and using him, and the fact that she actually is doing so doesn't help their budding relationship any.

But Esther is both more and less than what she seems. When they first meet, she tells Robert truthfully that she's a vampire slayer, but of course he thinks she's just kidding. As things progress between them Esther actually becomes more and more honest, both about herself and also her feelings toward Robert. Unfortunately, it takes him almost dying (at her hand, no less), for each to start realizing how much they care for one another. And it takes her own brush with mortality for both to fully accept their bond.

While their love story is the main focus of this story, and it seems like a pretty quick and straightforward one, there's actually quite a lot going on in the background. We learn a bit more about some of the developing relationships of the housemates. And that the Vasi or Vanguard pack is maybe not quite as united and reformed as the original Omegas had thought. Also, that someone has put a hit on Daedalus, and it's someone that Robert has a hard time accepting. Hopefully, in the next installment we'll learn even more about what is going on here.

I received a free eBook copy of this title from the author, and have willingly provided an honest review.

This review originally appeared on the So Few Books blog at: https://sofewbooks.blogspot.com/2020/...!
Profile Image for T.M. Payne.
Author 37 books93 followers
April 25, 2019
Book Review: Beta (Vanguards #3)
Author: Annie Nicholas
My Rating: 5 Stars
Publication Date: 4/18/2019
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts

REVIEW
Hands down best story yet in this series and wow what a story.
Robert is left in charge... Oh yes, poor antacid popping Robert.
However, his alpha Eric and Spice are off on their honeymoon so he has to do what a Beta must do although he never really wanted this job.

To add even more trouble to his already churning stomach, he has to go and fall for non-other than a vampire slaying Esther who wants Daedalus' head on her spike.
Esther, however, finds that Robert is more than she bargained for so now it comes down to wanting what the heart wants or wanting what her bank account wants.

This story gives you just the right amount of funny, sexy, and action is non stop.
I am sure you could read it without the others but why? I would highly suggest starting with book one so you can enjoy this fantastic series.

Annie Nicholas
Profile Image for Pamela Gramlisch.
761 reviews3 followers
May 27, 2019
It's Beta Robert's turn.

Eric the Apha and his mate Spice went on vacation leaving Beta Robert in charge for a week. He is having problems with a pack member Talon who doesn't respect him. He has fought him once a beaten him up, but the guy is still up to no good. Along the way he meets Esther who says she is a vampire slayer. The both feel desire for each other. She was hired to kill his vampire friend Daedalus for a $ 2 Million dollar contract. When she sees Robert and Daedalus on a rooftop talking she gets her bow with a stake arrow out then aims and shoots. At the last second Robert steps in the way and calls out the roof. She's shocked at what she's done. She never misses and now she's hurt Robert. This all works out to a happy ending with more werewolf action and a big surprise. Question still hanging is......Who put the contract out on Daedalus?
Profile Image for Amanda.
804 reviews184 followers
February 3, 2020
These are such cute reads without going into gag-inducing territory. Shifters, but geeky/nerdy and trying to make better citizens out of the more feral pack they've absorbed. This one continues the story with Beta Robert—with his stress-induced antacid habit— and Esther, a paranormal hunter on a $$$ contract to kill D. There's a larger plot at play with D. that isn't resolved in this one that I assume continues in book 4, and this one hints that his romance with Sugar is up in the air after the events in Book 2.

These are always worth the 90 minutes or so they take to read and available on KU.
Profile Image for Nikki Brooks.
3,553 reviews53 followers
April 25, 2019
Poor Robert! He has been left in charge of the pack and calamity is not far behind! He thinks he is out of his depth and that the pack will fail under his leadership!

He may have a point cause Esther...well she is a treat sized firework! Not happy with just picking Rob's pocket, she is actually in Chicago to carry out something a bit more...lethal!

Robert and Esther are a pair. Neither feels that they are able to change but both show they are more than capable. Esther is not someone you sneak up on - as can be testified when she is changing a tyre LOL!
Profile Image for Edith .
780 reviews1 follower
April 29, 2019
Loved it!

Along with the previous two books, BETA continues the story of the Omega -now Vis or Vanguard- pack. Robert is the Beta, although not the job he wanted, covering for the Alpha who's on his honeymoon. Dealing with daily pack issues he now has to deal with a dissident intent on taking him out. Then he meets a woman. Get ready for the rollercoaster ride as Robert has to deal with even more issues.
This series is fun, heart wrenching and hot. Geek meets Hawty is the order of the day with this series. I want more!
324 reviews3 followers
June 8, 2019
An Awesome Story!

It's amazing, the way this author draws you into the story!

This time a contract killer finds her life turned upside down when she meets her destined mate! This fast paced story is filled with action, humor, and love. The bedroom scenes make it mature readers only.

I really enjoyed reading this series. They can be read as standalones but each one picks right up after the last.
Profile Image for Alexis.
581 reviews6 followers
January 17, 2020
Need the next book

For the shortest book so much takes place in this story! Annie lacks so much in WITHOUT damaging reading enjoyment, in fact she enhanced it.
Patience and I are not good friends but I guess we'll have to pretend to be acquaintances until the next book in the series is out. Beta set it up perfectly.
148 reviews
April 26, 2019
Perfect

Clever, fun, hot and heart warming. I just love the characters both old and new. It's an exquisite blend of humour, violence, sex and fantasy. Here's hoping the next book is out soon.
Profile Image for JB.
2,179 reviews8 followers
May 9, 2020
Spicy HEA

I don’t like to give spoilers on the books that I read. I believe the blurb on the back is enough for you to decide if you will read the book or not. If you choose to read, enjoy!
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