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They thought she would break when the cage door slammed shut behind her... she didn’t.

Nova’s life was shattered when her father, the alpha, banished her fated mate, Mark, and he left without her. When she refused to bend to her father’s will he locked her in a cage for weeks in her fox form. Instead of complying with their plans to mate her to the second in command, she made plans of her own.

Upon her release, Nova never returned to her father’s home, she moved to an old hunting lodge on the edge of the skulk lands and made it her own. She is independent with a job outside of the compound and has learned to be happy with herself.

It did not take Mark long to realize he'd made a mistake leaving Nova behind. He should have asked her to go with him, to choose him over all else, and to make a life with him. But after several close calls with the infamous Shadow League, he realized there was more to his banishment than just the alpha’s fear of a challenge. Somehow, Mystic River and his old skulk are mixed up with the League.

When Mark returns years later, she is thrown back into chaos. Mark, determined to challenge the alpha for his position and claim Nova as his mate, must uncover the truth behind why he was banished in the first place.

Can Nova and Mark discover the secrets hiding in their hometown before it is too late?

If you like steamy, second-chance romances, 1-Click Shameless Mate today.

Take a walk on the wild side with these curvy heroines, their sexy, fated mates, and scenes that sizzle.

246 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 23, 2023

179 people are currently reading
56 people want to read

About the author

Delta James

335 books2,304 followers
As a USA Today bestselling romance author, Delta James aims to captivate readers with stories about complex heroines and the dominant alpha males who adore them. For Delta, romance is more than just a love story; it’s a journey with challenges and thrills along the way.

After creating a second chapter for herself that was dramatically different than the first, Delta now resides in Florida where she relaxes on warm summer evenings with her loveable pack of basset hounds as they watch the birds, squirrels, and lizards. When not crafting fast-paced tales, she enjoys horseback riding, hiking, and white-water rafting.

Her readers mean the world to her, and Delta tries to interact personally with as many messages as she can. If you’d like to chat or discuss books, you can find Delta on Instagram, Facebook, and in her private reader group https://www.facebook.com/groups/34898....

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
Profile Image for Mandy Grepares.
180 reviews3 followers
November 1, 2023
An excellent addition to the Mystic River shifters! This is a second chance romance. Mark and Nova are fox shifters. Mark left home after being banished by Nova's father, the previous alpha. He comes back after an unseen force threatens Mystic River. He also returned to challenge the alpha and claim his fated mate. The threat looms and every shifter needs to come together to stop it. This was a story about protecting the people you love, but also about fighting for what's right. Nova really stepped up after the threat, the shadow league, attacks their home. She took being Mark's mate seriously, and she will fight with Mark always.

*I received an ARC from the author for my honest review*
Profile Image for Kathy Heare Watts.
6,986 reviews175 followers
June 18, 2023
YES—NO—AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN

The story is part of the new Mystic River Shifters. It will have a great cast of characters, including humans and shifters. While you could read this out of order, to fully understand the characters and interactions, it is best if they are read in written order, because it is an ongoing saga. Each story picks up from where the last one left off (especially within the epilogue.) This story will be between Mark Hadley and Nova Manning.

Mark is the son of Doc Hadley and it was his father who encouraged him to leave Mystic River and to leave Nova behind. It was a hard decision, he grew up while he was away, but he knows it is time to return home. Not only to his home, but to Nova, and to their skulk. That means he must also challenge Nova’s father, Fenrick, the alpha.

“Now he was making deals with the devil, but didn’t they say it was better to deal with the devil you knew than the one you didn’t?”

After Mark left Vulpecula—and her, Nova moves out of the home and into the lodge that was special for her and Mark. Each week, her father and his beta, Grendel, come to see her and try to convince her to return home and see things his way—and each week, she sends him away. She and Mark knew they were fated mates and she was so hurt when he left her behind.

The story’s plot will have Mark returning, Nova and him reconnecting, and a challenge for the alpha’s position. There is more going on in the skulk than just poor leadership. It seems that the Shadow League is involved—even if many shifters don’t believe in them. Mark does, and so do some other shifters. Why are they here and who are they after? Now, more than ever before, Mark must protect those he loves, especially Nova. Mark and Nova’s reconnecting brings a positive change to the skulk too.

“The only thing that feels right and real is being your fated mate. I’m tired of pretending I don’t believe it. I wanted to tell you that I haven’t a clue as to where I’m going, or what I’m going to do. Everything feels lost. I need a compass. I need my fated mate. I need you.”

Trouble is coming, and Mark is trying to get as many shifter communities as possible to believe him about the Shadow League and their danger. The battle has only begun, but it is a matter of life and death for the shifters. Will Nova, Aunt Layla, and Esme be able to uncover a secret that has been hidden—one that has cost lives but could be the weapon to change the future?

“Better the devil you know than the one you don’t.”

Nova: When did you get all enlightened?
Mark: When I was off being noble and stupid.

“They may not have the war won, but the odds had just shifted in their favor.”

“To absent friends and family and to taking our power back. The Shadow League and their masters have been put on notice. We will not go quietly into the night. We will rage against the dying of the light and emerge victorious.”

The story does not end on a cliffhanger, but instead, the epilogue will segue into the next story. If you have been reading all these stories, I think you will agree, this next one is intriguing and I'm looking forward to it. Be sure to read, Runaway Mate, with an August 4th release date. The Mystic River saga continues.
Profile Image for JigsawGirl.
4,185 reviews
June 21, 2023
This was about Mark and Nova's second chance romance, as well as the ongoing threat of the Shadow League. I would not say that it was a sweet romance or reunion. Intense is more the word that came to mind.

Nova and Mark's skulk was a hotbed of lies, deceit, and collusion. I didn't expect the resolution to come as early as it did. There were a number of twists and unanticipated surprises.

Mark and Nova's story had them being a strong united front and did not end in a cliffhanger. It did end with them trying to create a coalition to help protect the Mystic River community and all shifters from the destruction of the Shadow League.

I liked that Nova was strong, intelligent, and independent. She was willing to fight both with and for Mark. Mark's mother and Nova's aunt were equally as strong, independent, and intelligent. All three women combined were a determined force to be reckoned with.

This story also left me wondering who might be the traitor living in their midst. Looking forward to the continuation of the Mystic River saga.

I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy received via BookSirens.
Profile Image for Carin Boersma - Diepstraten.
44 reviews4 followers
June 23, 2023
This book can be read as a standalone in this fine series but to enjoy the story and to know about the overall arc begin with book 1 from Mystic Rivers. (You will not be disappointed.)

The story pulls you in. Within minutes I forgot about my tea and crumpets… The love scenes are well written and complement the story. It left me with a good feeling and I cannot wait to read book 5. Will it be about Derek or Jasper?

I received an ARC via Booksirens and I loved this story so much that I chose to leave a review.
Profile Image for Dennis.
952 reviews27 followers
August 5, 2023
seriously wonderful and terrific

Ok this is #4 in a Fated Mate shifter romance series and I am loving it. It has a lot of Action and a good amount of smutty scenes as well. I am looking forward to reading the next volume
Profile Image for Gaynor.
26 reviews
January 22, 2024
Delta James’ “Shameless Mate” takes readers on a thrilling journey through the complexities of love, betrayal, and redemption in the world of supernatural romance. This steamy tale revolves around Nova, a resilient and independent shifter, and Mark, her fated mate who left her behind when banished by her alpha father.
The story kicks off with a powerful setup as Nova's life takes a tragic turn when her father banishes Mark, her fated mate, and locks her in a cage in her shifter form when she refuses to comply with the alpha's plans. Instead of succumbing to her father’s will, Nova orchestrates her own escape, finding comfort in an old hunting lodge on the outskirts of the skulk lands. Mark, who realizes his mistake in leaving Nova behind, returns determined to challenge the alpha for his position and reclaim Nova as his mate.
The main characters development in “Shameless Mate” is commendable. Nova emerges as a strong and resilient heroine, refusing to be a pawn in her father’s games. Her ability to rebuild her life independently and find happiness within herself is empowering. Mark's realization of his error adds depth to his character, and his determination to set things right heightens the emotional tension.
Delta James crafts the romance between Nova and Mark with sizzling scenes that ignite the pages. The chemistry between the characters is intense, and the second chance theme adds emotional depth to their rekindled connection. The author masterfully weaves together passion, suspense, and a touch of the supernatural, creating a well-rounded and engaging narrative.
One of the strengths of “Shameless Mate” lies in the exploration of themes such as independence, self-discovery, and the resilience of love. The book not only delivers on its promise of a steamy romance but also offers a satisfying blend of action and mystery.
In conclusion, Delta James’ “Shameless Mate” is a captivating addition to the world of paranormal romance. With well-developed characters, a suspenseful plot, and scorching romance, it's a must-road for fans of second chance love stories set in the wild and enchanting realm of supernatural brings.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
91 reviews1 follower
July 18, 2023
I’ve been reading my way through the Mystic River series. I just finished Shameless Mate.

Delta James has done it again! She continues to give us strong, interesting characters, who are dealing with problems, some unique to their world, but some common to ours. Everyone wants love, to be loved, and to give love; most everyone wants to be part of a caring, supportive family. They want to feel that they are of value, to those close to them and to their society as a whole. How to achieve that?

Marc and Nova have those challenges, and others. Is being a fated mate, enough? Is love truly a part of being a fated mate, and if so, is that love, strong enough? Can it overcome feelings of hurt and abandonment? Add to that, interference from family, some benevolent, and some not.

And in Delta’s books, the societies are mostly patriarchal, some archaically so. The current generation of females have to navigate that upbringing and reconcile it somehow, with being a modern woman who wants to decide her own life. (Not an issue wholly limited to Shifters) Nova is really having to face those challenges! But Delta knows how to write a heroine that can do that, and yet keep the love and support of an equally strong, alpha, male. One could wish real life, imitated art a little more often!!! And, it doesn’t hurt that Delta knows how to stoke a steamy fire! 😉

The overall story arc continues to build as well. The Shadow League is making its presence felt, even as they continue to try to keep up the illusion that they don’t exist. Is the war coming? Can Marc and other strong alphas, gather their clans and be ready? Any fight is sure to be fierce, drawing in both predator & prey shifters, with their whole secret civilization in the balance. Can’t wait to read the next installment of this series and of its companion series, Otter Cove .

Delta James, please continue to write as furiously as possible!!! We can’t wait to see what happens next. 😊

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Debbie Orazi.
1,755 reviews26 followers
June 25, 2023
This was a second chance paranormal romance.

Love this series! I can't wait for the series finale. Highly recommend!

Nova Manning was an artic fox shifter and the daughter of the alpha of the skulk. After Mark was banished she was bullied by her father and his beta Grendel. She dealt with it by moving out of the main house, isolating herself from the skulk and getting a job as a bartender in town. She was heartbroken and basically went into survival mode.

Mark Hadley was an artic fox shifter and the son of the town doctor. He was banished as a young man and went into military service. He came back to his hometown to challenge the alpha for leadership and to reunite with his fated mate. His secondary mission was to deal with the Shadow League threatening his skulk's survival.

Mark makes his way back to Mystic River and the skulk stronghold Vulpecula where he challenges the alpha Fenrick. Fenrick appoints his beta Grendel as his champion. During the fight Mark beats Grendel then a mountain lion shifter attacks them. Fenrick attacks the mountain lion but dies in the process. The injured members of the skulk are brought to Doc Hadley's office for treatment. Nova and Mark get into a disagreement and he claims her as his mate after disciplining her.

Mark takes over as alpha and begins to talk with the other alphas about the Shadow League situation. Meanwhile Nova, her aunt and Mark's mother get renovations started in Vulpecula. Her aunt finds a room of ancient documents which talk about a secret power the foxes once had. The Shadow League mountain lion shifters sent to unalive Mark are eliminated but Mark knows they will send more. He works with the skulk and other alphas to prepare them for the upcoming war.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Leisel.
758 reviews4 followers
July 8, 2023
What can I say but once again Author Delta James has left me fully satisfied with her recent shifter couple. This instalment, book 4 from the Mystic River Shifter Series, readers are introduced to yet another, hot hunk in ex-Army Ranger Mark Hadley and his fated mate, Nova Manning, the daughter of the current Alpha leader of the Artic fox community in the ever so beautiful shifter township Mystic River in Alaska.

Mark and Nova have a past together and poor Nova also comes with some severe relationship damage with her father and so has lived her own life in a degree of solitude from her skulk but things change when Mark returns to Mystic River.

What I really loved about this book was the truly wonderful characters that Delta creates, not just the primary ones of Mark and Nova but every single character that crops up along the way. I feel they are so well developed that you can really image what each character is like. Then of course having read the previous titles in the series you get to see many of them make a reappearance too. In saying that, you could read this story on its own but personally why when this whole series has been so incredibly entertaining and with each book the "bigger" issue surrounding all of these shifter couples gets more complex and the real mystery of the shadow league grows more and more captivating to the audience. Another concept I really enjoy is this sense of unity that is really developing within the vast shifter communities that live, work and love together, and of course how these fated females really do give their Alpha mates complete cheek to their dominance over them.

So looking forward to see how this whole series comes together but happy to meet more fated couples along the way.

I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
1,023 reviews
June 30, 2023
Mark returns home after years of being away. He left to grow up and gain some life experience but in order to do that he had to leave his family and fated mate behind. Now he's back and he plans to become the alpha of Vulpecula. He will need to convince everyone to follow him and his fated mate that they are meant to be together. A war is brewing and the fox shifters are the first to take up the battle. Will the rest of the shifters join the fight?

Mark is an interesting character. His reasons for leaving are solid and his reasons for returning are good. I like that he had a plan when he returned. I thought his progression to becoming alpha made sense and his actions once he's alpha were understandable. I think the author did a good job setting up how Mark will be important to the future tales. Nova has been living separate from her people for a long time. She hates her father with good reason. I liked how the author showed Nova coming to terms with her past. I think Nova is a good character and I am looking forward to finding out what she does next. There are lots of side characters and many moving parts setting up future stories.

There is some repetition in the story that drove me crazy. Once something is established I don't want to on repeat unless it is adding to something in the story.

This is a contemporary shifter romance set in Alaska. This book sets up a shifter war that will be part of future books. I look forward to reading more from this series in the future.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
507 reviews5 followers
August 18, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Quick paced story that draws you in and holds your attention throughout. It gave some insight as to why the Ruling Council is using their henchmen to control the shifters and the fact that it's gone on for some time. Consolidation of power by evil. The story and discovery of the secret room and power builds up the anticipation for a knock down no holds barred battle. On a side note, never thought of a reindeer as being a "predatory fighter" - go Dash. Jasper showing up and being allowed to stay was alluded to as odd but hopefully he's a good guy because they need a diplomat. He's just one more character in this series who has a mystery surrounding him. The backstory blended seamlessly into the main story, so it just flowed. The one thing that was kind of dropped that I wish had been discussed a bit more was Mark's conflicted feelings regarding his dad & why he left. He stood up to him once quickly and then nothing. It's a relationship that needs to be fleshed out because it was left hanging. Nova was the strong, sassy, intelligent heroine who took no prisoners and did it with humor. She, her aunt, and Mark's mom are the true power behind the alpha. The Hero of the book seemed more two dimensional than usual (why it's only 4 stars). There'd be glimmers but it was never really fleshed out. The Vixens are definitely the true power here. The book moved the series along and introduced characters who will definitely play important roles throughout. I'm looking forward to the other shifter groups maybe finding their own secret rooms and lost "weapons".
3,182 reviews
June 21, 2023
Riveting addition to the shifters of Mystic Rive I guarantee you’ll love every moment of
Nova has had to endure the most horrific time since her mate was banished by her Alpha, he had left without even asking if she wanted to try and run with him. She felt so betrayed and had to take matters into her own hands by leaving her father and moving in to a small lodge of her own.
She has an independent job but has never been able to forget Mark and how he has simply left her, she had been locked in a cage for weeks forced to stay in her animal shifter form and after he has had several close calls with the Shadow League he realises that he needs to return to Nova.
There is an underlying motive and he is determined to discover what her Alpha is up to he is even willing to actually stand against her father if he has to, he has to discover what happened to his mate it is important he discover if there is still any chance for them?
I guarantee that you will enjoy this book in the series it is full of wonderful characters and a great plot.
I assure you that you will love every moment of this book it is simply a fantastic read.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
212 reviews
June 26, 2023
Arctic fox shifter Nova has met her fated mate, but her father, the skulk’s alpha, banishes him to prevent the mating. Mark, feeling he’s unable to challenge his alpha at that point, accepts the banishment and leaves Nova behind to join the military.

Angry and grieving over Mark’s desertion, Nova adamantly refuses her father’s choice for her mate and separates herself from her skulk. She’s strong, smart and independent and quickly carves out a new life for herself. There’s also much going on behind the scenes as the sinister Shadow League maneuvers for power over the shifter communities.

When Mark returns years later to finally claim Nova, she’s in no mood to forgive and forget. I love that she stands her ground and makes him work for it. But Mark knows he made the mistake of his life leaving Nova and he’ll let nothing stand in the way of reclaiming her heart. He’s also determined to claim the role of alpha of the skulk and unite the shifter groups against the hidden danger posed by the Shadow League.

One intriguing element of the plot is the discovery that the fox shifters once possessed a secret, ancient power. Another is the awareness of an unknown traitor in the skulk. It all adds up to an engrossing tale of love, passion, mystery and adventure.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for LiteraryCryptid.
228 reviews23 followers
July 11, 2023
This is my first venture into the Mystic Rivers Shifters Series and I am so glad that it works wonderfully as a stand-alone novel.

World-building is done really well, allowing for a new reader to feel completely caught up on all relevant information without it being a complete info-dump. This story, while character decisions definitely are influenced in part by romance, reads more like an fantasy thriller as the main plot to discover and build against the Shadow League takes a majority of the novel.

Both Mark and Nova are interesting characters, there's a lot of potential for progress and building their storyline further especially with the direction of the ending. Nova is a strong-willed FMC who consistently shows she won't be left behind or told what to do (although when it comes to Mark that sometimes goes out the window). Mark feels like a classic Alpha MC, taking over the pack to protect them from dangers they don't yet know about and claiming his mate in the process. He does have a softer and more emotional role within the community and leans towards logic and communication in his actions.

There is a heck of a build-up to the cliff hanger and I look forward to the resolution in future novels!

Thank you to BookSirens and Delta James for the opportunity to read this novel for free in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Marybeth.
2,297 reviews21 followers
June 23, 2023
This is part of a series that is best read in order. It is optional, but the reader will enjoy the books much more this way. Nova and Mark's story is a second chance at love.

Mark left Mystic River because he needed more time before he was ready to challenge Nova's father for Alpha. In his infinite male opinion, , he felt it was better to leave Nova behind. God forbid he ask her opinion! I swear these alphas are full of themselves, lol. He comes back, challenges for Alpha, mates with Nova, and works to organize the shifters to combat the Shadow League, an organization most do not believe in.

Nova is a feisty woman who doesn't take no for an answer. She stands up for herself, even with Mark, and goes after what she wants. I enjoyed how she stood up to her father and his beta. Mark and Nova are evenly matched.

This book quickly pulled me into the story, and I read straight through to the end. The story is well-written and filled with many wonderful characters, most of whom we have met before. I especially enjoyed the epilogue, which introduces the next book, Runaway Mate, which will be released on August 4th.

I received an advance copy, and this is my honest review.
308 reviews
June 29, 2023
I loved 🥰 this amazing, beautifully crafted story and the complexity of the characters and their personalities is so compelling you can’t stop reading, eager to learn more about them, their world and experience all the drama, battles and joy 🤩. I love Nova, she is so talented, amazing and determined to stand alone against the pain, danger and betrayal of her father. I feel her pain and confusion at what she sees as the abandonment and betrayal when her fated mate disappears after her alpha father banished Mark from the Skulk and he leaves without telling her or talking her with him. Stupid male thinking he knows what is best for her and doesn’t even give her a choice 😱 MEN 😡. I hate that Novas father locked her in a little cage to try to break her. I am glad that Mark has realised what a big mistake leaving Nova behind was and now must try to make her understand and forgive his foolish younger self’s mistakes. I like that he has become a worthy mate for Nova and his experience fighting in Afghanistan will help him fight against the Shadow League, council and win the challenge to become Alpha of their Skulk win Nova as his mate and make their Skulk safe and strong. This is an excellent, exciting and spellbinding read. ENJOY 😉
Profile Image for Julie.
2,449 reviews18 followers
September 16, 2023
Welcome back to Mystic River! Boy, I missed these guys. James has continued to develope the community, now introducing us to a group of Arctic Foxes (too cool). As always, the world building and scene setting are spellbinding. They draw you into the character's world as if you were there with them. Oh, and Mark & Nova are fabulous leads. They are both proud, yet humble. Strong, and gentle. Fierce, and tender. These two were once everything to eachother. Can they get back there again?

The secondary characters definately all play there part in this book as well. They helped to round out the story and fill in some gaps. I was left with just a couple nagging questions (more like things I think Mark should check into and verify rather than take his mother's word for it - he knows she's not always right!).

Not only is this book a romance, it has an ARC storyline that will have you reaching for the next installment of the series (and the next couple's journey). The Shadow League is starting to take shape. Find out more about what is to come in Shameless Mate.

I did receive an ARC, and this voluntary review is my honest evaluation. I hope it helps in your search for your next read. Happy Reading 📚
Profile Image for Laura Moylan.
1,541 reviews
July 1, 2024
Mark Hadley left Mystic River, Alaska after his Alpha, Fenrick banished him. However, Fen’s daughter, Nova is Mark’s fated mate and he leaves her behind at the behest of his father who is the doctor. He goes into the military and then returns when he hears about the Shadow League being nearby his home town. He has plans to fight them, but there are a list of things that need to be done first. Mark is systematic with this and as an Alpha male fox shifter, he is a bit much when he returns and deals with Nova. I was not impressed with how he handles Nova at first. Honestly, I don’t know how she doesn’t slap him a few times for leaving her. She works at the Workshop, the local tavern and her boss is a reindeer shifter named Dash. I adore him. I laughed my butt off when I read the name of Fen’s beta. Very apt name as he is a monster. Things go absolutely freaking crazy and the fight scenes are awesome! We get to see Deputy Derek and Sheriff Jax again. We also get to see Colby, who I adore. The one thing that is my fave is that they have proof that the Shadow League exists. I can’t wait to see what happens next and how they deal with the League and their assassins.

I received an advance reading copy for free and am voluntarily leaving this review.
346 reviews7 followers
June 30, 2023
Mark and Nova's story is next in the "Mystic River Shifters “and Delta James certainly doesn't disappoint the reader! 'Shameless Mate'. They are arctic fox shifters and Nova is the daughter of the current alpha of the skulk. Mark's father, the skulk's doctor, encouraged Mark to leave his fated mate, Nova, and during his time away, he matured. Now he has returned, and things have changed. Nova had moved to her own cabin away from her father and beta and lived independently.

The Shadow League is casting a shadow (pun intended) on the skulk and other shifter communities in the area. Mark is determined to find out who is in the league and who in their skulk may be a traitor and feeding them information.

It's a fast paced and fascinating story that also introduced the reader to new characters with their own unique talents. I won't give away the story except to say that Mark challenges the current alpha (Nova's father) for leadership of the skulk. I am looking forward to the next installment of the Mystic River Shifters.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Sara.
2,385 reviews14 followers
July 16, 2023
A second chance romance between fated mates. Mark was exiled from his Arctic fox skulk (clan) several years ago without saying goodbye to Nova or explaining why he was leaving without her. In the intervening years she’s harbored anger and resentment, and dismisses the idea they were even fated mates.

When Mark returns to Mystic River he issued a challenge to the current alpha, Nova’s father. Besides trying to win back his fated mate, Mark has his hands full with danger, changes and securing the skulk’s safety and future.

While an entertaining and enjoyable read, I struggled with how much of the first half of the book was the characters mentally reminiscing things that took place in the past. These characters weren’t previously introduced in prior books so I felt there was minimal engagement with them or the story until well after the alpha challenge took place. I think this book actually helps set up the next books as the shifters start to take a stand against the Shadow League.

A good read overall, just not as great as so many other Delta James’ books.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for ltfrom bc.
546 reviews5 followers
July 2, 2023
The Suspense is Building

Such a good read. This is the 4th of 5 books in this series and the author gradually built up the suspense from book one through to book 4 and that suspense just continues to grow. I am sure the final book will be epic.

This is a story of love lost and found, betrayal, mystery, suspense and intrigue. Nova and Mark were fated mates and then he was banished. Little did Nova expect, he returned to challenge her father, the current alpha for the role. But can he win back Nova. He is determined to do both. And only time will tell if he is able to do it. But as he moves forward with his plans, the mysterious and ghostly Shadow League are preparing to move forward with their plan. It will be up to Mark, Nova and the other alphas to stop them - if Mark can convince them that the Shadow League actually exists
.
Quite an enjoyable read that has an HEA but will continue and conclude in the final book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Amber.
793 reviews
August 18, 2023
This book had quite a bit of action, mystery and suspense around Nova's estranged father, a battle of power between pack leaders, and the Shadow League lurking in the background. I found it to be quite an interesting addition to the previous books and it feels like the overall plot is gaining traction, although at the same time we are left wondering where all the characters come together?

Unlike the previous alphas Asher Jax and Scott, Mark is not taking over as alpha from his father, or living alone (anymore), but challenges the current alpha who is Nova's somewhat estranged dad. Nova is still harbouring resent towards Mark for having left her without a word, which on hindsight he realises was wrong. Will she take her place next to him and help rebuild the skulk? Will she uncover some secrets and how is the next few stories going to develop?

Don't forget to also read the epilogues from Ms James website!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Karon Price.
1,253 reviews34 followers
June 24, 2023
A great second chance at romance story, Shameless Mate is the story of Mark and Nova. She's the daughter of the current alpha and he's Doc's son, who left the skulk because he wasn't ready to challenge the alpha for control. Unfortunately he left Nova, his fated mate, behind. Now he's back and he's got to not only fight for his skulk, he's fighting for his fated mate as well. I liked that this story also expanded on the mysterious Shadow League and the traitor in their midst. There's a bit of a tug of war when these two initially get together. She has a bit of a grudge, he did leave her after all, and she's no young girl anymore. She's now a very independent vixen. Mark bounces back and forth with wanting to claim her and sending her away to protect her. These two discover they are stronger together. There are also some new interesting mystical elements in this story I hope the author further explores. Great HEA and segue into the next story.
Profile Image for Denise.
3,754 reviews
July 6, 2023
I loved Mark and Nova's story. Nova's mate left without a word to her and it broke her heart but not her spirit. Her father is the leader of a fox skulk on Kodiak Island, but he is no longer the boss of her. Now, Mark has returned but that doesn't mean she has to forgive him or take him back. But when he challenges her father for the role of alpha, Nova can't stay away from the fight. It's she finally ready to be the first lady of the skulk?

Mark is finally ready to challenge Nova's father and lead the skulk with his mate by his side. More importantly, he is ready to gather forces to fight the Shadow League. So all he has to do is win a fight, get his mate to forgive him for leaving her behind, and convince the other shifters on the island that the Shadow League is real and they need to band together to take it down. Easy, right?

I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
Profile Image for Amy Reads Romance.
993 reviews11 followers
July 10, 2023
When Mark Hadley was banished from his Arctic fox skulk, he left behind his fated mate Nova Manning. Betrayed and lost, she had no relationship with her father the Alpha, and living apart from the rest of the skulk, she was alone. After serving as an Army Ranger, Mark came back to challenge the Alpha and claim Nova once and for all. The Shadow League is closing in on them, and other Alphas are skeptical, believing the Shadow League is only a myth. What will it take to get them on board?

Delta James writes the kind of shifter romances I love to read. Feisty, curvy heroines, dominant, over the top Heroes, and romances that make the reader swoon. Mark and Nova's happily ever after is comparatively rather easy. Shameless Mate is well-written, with characters I might be friends with in real life. All in all, I definitely recommend this one as worth the one click.

I received an advance reader copy of this book, and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
1,363 reviews17 followers
August 6, 2023
The writing is OK, but needs maturing; it doesn't flow. Readers who start in the middle of this series will have a hard time deciphering the relationships among the characters.

There were some inconsistencies. On page 205, when Mark shifted, he put on his clothes. Where did his clothes come from? How did the fox hold the net? It would have been very awkward carrying it, but no explanation was given.

The plot and characters are compelling. The sex scenes are well done. Once I started the book, I finished it in hours and want to know what happens next. I personally don't like the male dominance in claiming a mate and expecting the female to submit, but it is true to the character of the species. I appreciate the Nova is a strong person who may accept the dominance but also keeps her independence.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
775 reviews4 followers
September 26, 2023
This is a story of a returning mate and acceptance/forgiveness.

I loved the way they reconciled. Mark was in the Rangers. He was also banished from his people . He knows how to fight and leave no "man" behind. I also liked that he did not try to change who Nova had become with his absence. She was in survival mode. And could take care of herself. Strong and determined. She also had dreams and Mark did not try to block her from them. But instead tried to incorporate them into his plans for the future of the skulk .

We get more information about the Shadow League. And who they are really trying to assassinate.

Action through out. Steam to the romance. Loved the twists. And of course the enduring HEA. Well written.

It is best to read the series in order. There are a lot of secondary characters . I am glad that there is some explanation of who is who.

This is an excellent series from an outstanding author.
Profile Image for Patricia Hoffstaetter.
3,160 reviews40 followers
November 8, 2023
I truly enjoyed reading this intriguing second-chance shifter romance and I found the plot quite enthralling to read and it was entertaining, well-written & suspenseful with some intriguing situations that are well-described. The characters (Nova & Mark) are realistically emotional flawed due to circumstances beyond their control but once they come into contact with each other they continue to develop into a well-adjusted couple. The secondary characters offer some good support.
There is: various kinds of shifters, fox shifters, villainess villains, fated mates, adventure, action, twists & turns, drama, intrigue, suspense, humor, secrets, manipulations, deceit, twists & turns, threats, devious intentions, determination, compromises, surprises, contentment, some steamy scenes & happy conclusion for this couple with a very interesting epilogue. I really enjoyed reading this book & look forward to next book with great anticipation.
Profile Image for Lisa Hammond-ashley.
66 reviews6 followers
January 27, 2024
My favorite line: " He knew it was foolish to think he could detect her distinct scent from this distance, but he tried reaching across the miles to see if he could touch her presence".

Nova is a artic fox shifter who lives in Alaska in a small town called Mystic River where only shifters are allowed to live, the only man she had ever loved and thought was going to be her mate left with a word of goodbye or where he was going or if she wanted to leave with him which left Nova completely devastated and days just blurred into days, the only escape she gets is at her job. Nova's father and his enforcers are tyrants that need to be taken care of.
Mark Hadley is back and ready to fight for his mate and his future. Who are “The Shadow League ? Are they friend or foe, myth or real? Also I liked Colby. And can Nova live up to her full potential? I'm excited to read Sean and Winter’s story.
#booksirens #deltaJames #Shameless mate #ARC
357 reviews
June 27, 2023
Mark is the stranger we met at the end of Scott and Krya's book. When Mark was banished by his Alpha, his parents beg him to leave instead of challenging the Alpha. By leaving he left his fated mate Nova behind. Nova was devastated when Mark left her, but she forged a new life for herself. When Mark returns, his goal is to challenge the Alpha and claim his mate Nova, but she is not the girl he left behind. Mark knows there is a war coming and the shifters must start preparing to fight the League and possibly the ruling counsel as well. But some shifters are unwilling to listen. Overall, this is a set up book for fight to come. I enjoyed reading about Mark and Nova and cannot wait for the next installment.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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