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Black Rock Guardians #1
Secrets of Shooting Star Lake
Fighting primal instinct is not for the faint of heart…
Adam
All I needed from the wickedly smart pastry chef was the land that would give my pack an advantage in the upcoming war.
I never expected to need her .
But Marit Hagen is my fated mate. Every fiber of my being is telling me to claim her.
It doesn’t matter that it’s forbidden. It doesn’t matter that choosing her could cost me everything. Even my life.
All I know is what I feel in my soul .
She’s mine .
Marit
I thought the isolated cabin would be a perfect place to recover from my latest romantic disaster.
I was wrong.
Turns out the woods are full of supernatural creatures who want something from me. And one of them wants all of me.
Sexy werewolf Adam Landry says I’m his soul mate.
Puhleeze .
I’m willing to accept the existence of shifters and a potential paranormal war. But I’ll never believe in eternal love .
No matter how much he makes me wish I could…
Secrets of Shooting Star Lake , book 1 in the Black Rock Guardians series, is a lightly angsty PNR with plenty of spicy and tense moments, and just the right amount of action/adventure. Pre-order today and see if you can handle the lake’s secrets.
Adam
All I needed from the wickedly smart pastry chef was the land that would give my pack an advantage in the upcoming war.
I never expected to need her .
But Marit Hagen is my fated mate. Every fiber of my being is telling me to claim her.
It doesn’t matter that it’s forbidden. It doesn’t matter that choosing her could cost me everything. Even my life.
All I know is what I feel in my soul .
She’s mine .
Marit
I thought the isolated cabin would be a perfect place to recover from my latest romantic disaster.
I was wrong.
Turns out the woods are full of supernatural creatures who want something from me. And one of them wants all of me.
Sexy werewolf Adam Landry says I’m his soul mate.
Puhleeze .
I’m willing to accept the existence of shifters and a potential paranormal war. But I’ll never believe in eternal love .
No matter how much he makes me wish I could…
Secrets of Shooting Star Lake , book 1 in the Black Rock Guardians series, is a lightly angsty PNR with plenty of spicy and tense moments, and just the right amount of action/adventure. Pre-order today and see if you can handle the lake’s secrets.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2023
159 people are currently reading
214 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
August 10, 2023
I enjoyed my time with this story from Marit and her siblings at the bakery, muffin talk, and Adam with the wolf-shifter pack at Shooting Star Lake.
Strom does a good job of setting up the world, and hooking us with details of things to come. When we meet Marit, she is weeks away from her wedding and finds her fiance’ in bed with their wedding planner. When Adam, an alpha wolf, bumps into her on his way to the bakery, his wolf recognizes her as his mate.
I loved fated mates and was able to look past her ex-fiancé, especially considering his motives. The author did a great job of showing us that Marit was more angry than devastated by their engagement ending. The attraction between Marit and Adam felt genuine, and their chemistry was off the charts.
My only grip was Marit bringing up Bryce in the bedroom. It was weird and awkward. Aside from that I had no complaints. I enjoyed all the characters from Adam’s family to Marit’s. Some of my favorite characters were Zane, an alpha enforcer and woodworker, Xander, an alpha who wants to be a chef and Marit’s pup.
The current suspense thread wraps up with some closure and the promise of more trouble to come. We see hints of the next romance and even get an epilogue that made me smile.
I am looking forward to learning more about the black stone, the pack and the threat on the horizon. The author shared some of the history without info dumps, giving the story a pleasant flow. Fans of shifter romances, fated romances and suspense will want to give the series a go. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Strom does a good job of setting up the world, and hooking us with details of things to come. When we meet Marit, she is weeks away from her wedding and finds her fiance’ in bed with their wedding planner. When Adam, an alpha wolf, bumps into her on his way to the bakery, his wolf recognizes her as his mate.
I loved fated mates and was able to look past her ex-fiancé, especially considering his motives. The author did a great job of showing us that Marit was more angry than devastated by their engagement ending. The attraction between Marit and Adam felt genuine, and their chemistry was off the charts.
My only grip was Marit bringing up Bryce in the bedroom. It was weird and awkward. Aside from that I had no complaints. I enjoyed all the characters from Adam’s family to Marit’s. Some of my favorite characters were Zane, an alpha enforcer and woodworker, Xander, an alpha who wants to be a chef and Marit’s pup.
The current suspense thread wraps up with some closure and the promise of more trouble to come. We see hints of the next romance and even get an epilogue that made me smile.
I am looking forward to learning more about the black stone, the pack and the threat on the horizon. The author shared some of the history without info dumps, giving the story a pleasant flow. Fans of shifter romances, fated romances and suspense will want to give the series a go. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
June 23, 2023
I got an ARC of this book from Netgalley and this is my honest review.
This was the first time I read a Strom book and I may have fallen into the trap of getting a book based on its cover- oops! But have you seen that cover? That, coupled up with poetical rejected mate, werewolves and spice? Sounded like the makings of a great book!
I did enjoy the world building and especially the fresh reference to the wolf counterpart as a “shadow brother”. I also loved the cousin relationships and the little tidbits we get here and there of the next book which may, or may not, focus on Zane and Annika.
Unfortunately the rest of this fell a little short for me. I found that the pace was a little strange- the heroine goes from being engaged to another man to meeting the MC and then catching her fiancé cheating to suddenly being really attracted to the MC and mating within 11 days. Although that’s not the issue, there were lots of comparisons of the MC with the ex and she goes from basically nothing to just suddenly sleeping with the MC at around 50%.
There were also lots of unanswered questions. I get that these will be resolved in future books but those that were directly linked to this book, such as Olga’s fate, should have been resolved.
Anyway.
This was the first time I read a Strom book and I may have fallen into the trap of getting a book based on its cover- oops! But have you seen that cover? That, coupled up with poetical rejected mate, werewolves and spice? Sounded like the makings of a great book!
I did enjoy the world building and especially the fresh reference to the wolf counterpart as a “shadow brother”. I also loved the cousin relationships and the little tidbits we get here and there of the next book which may, or may not, focus on Zane and Annika.
Unfortunately the rest of this fell a little short for me. I found that the pace was a little strange- the heroine goes from being engaged to another man to meeting the MC and then catching her fiancé cheating to suddenly being really attracted to the MC and mating within 11 days. Although that’s not the issue, there were lots of comparisons of the MC with the ex and she goes from basically nothing to just suddenly sleeping with the MC at around 50%.
There were also lots of unanswered questions. I get that these will be resolved in future books but those that were directly linked to this book, such as Olga’s fate, should have been resolved.
Anyway.
December 20, 2023
I'm going to give this a 2.75. It wasn't horrible but there were too many inconsistencies. Also Marit was just annoying.
June 19, 2023
“Remember what Grandma always used to say, ‘He:: hath no fury like a pissed off Hagen woman.’ We’ve got your back, cousin. Always.”
What a great start to a new series. Fated mates, suspense, secrets and super hot alpha males.
Adam knows from the very beginning she’s his mate. She feels the pull but has no idea shifters exist.
Our eyes locked. Her forehead furrowed and her brows drew down. Her feet were planted firmly on the sidewalk, but her body swayed toward mine.
Merit just wants to get away from a bad breakup. Something about Adam keeps pulling her to him.
Oh boy her cousins are a trip!!
“In case you go missing,” she said. “If you end up in a barrel behind his barn, the police will need to know where to look for your body.”
“No more true crime shows for you. I mean it. You’re cut off.”
I am so looking forward to the next book. This author never fails to grab my attention from start to finish.
What a great start to a new series. Fated mates, suspense, secrets and super hot alpha males.
Adam knows from the very beginning she’s his mate. She feels the pull but has no idea shifters exist.
Our eyes locked. Her forehead furrowed and her brows drew down. Her feet were planted firmly on the sidewalk, but her body swayed toward mine.
Merit just wants to get away from a bad breakup. Something about Adam keeps pulling her to him.
Oh boy her cousins are a trip!!
“In case you go missing,” she said. “If you end up in a barrel behind his barn, the police will need to know where to look for your body.”
“No more true crime shows for you. I mean it. You’re cut off.”
I am so looking forward to the next book. This author never fails to grab my attention from start to finish.
June 8, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley, Susanna Strom, and Cougar Creek Publishing for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
In all honesty, this was probably a 2.5 star read for me. Starting with the positives:
The world and shifter dynamics was very interesting! This idea that the wolf is a separate identity, yet an extension of the man, was very interesting. I really enjoyed some of the internal battles that Adam had with his wolf brother.
I enjoyed Susanna's take on mates as well. The wolf knows it and the man may take a while to catch up, indicating mates aren't necessarily love at first sight. I enjoyed that dynamic.
I also enjoyed the lore for this world. This shifter histories and the wars that take place.
Why was this book not rated higher for me? Largely because it all just felt... too fast. Too... middle school? Marit goes from being engaged to jumping in to a relationship with Adam with barely any hesitation. The author attempted to bring in an internal battle briefly, but it moved on rather swiftly. It didn't really impact the story at all.
Another issue I had is in relation to something I did enjoy - The wolf/man internal dynamic. Susanna kept telling us that the wolf knows, but the man may take some time to catch up... but it didn't actually happen in the story. I wish we could have seen more of this. More details in this instead of it just being told to us a handful of times.
The alpha dynamic was disappointing too.
Overall, there was the possibility for a good story here - There's potential for sure! Flesh out the story more, shore up these holes and I think there's a good book in these pages!
In all honesty, this was probably a 2.5 star read for me. Starting with the positives:
The world and shifter dynamics was very interesting! This idea that the wolf is a separate identity, yet an extension of the man, was very interesting. I really enjoyed some of the internal battles that Adam had with his wolf brother.
I enjoyed Susanna's take on mates as well. The wolf knows it and the man may take a while to catch up, indicating mates aren't necessarily love at first sight. I enjoyed that dynamic.
I also enjoyed the lore for this world. This shifter histories and the wars that take place.
Why was this book not rated higher for me? Largely because it all just felt... too fast. Too... middle school? Marit goes from being engaged to jumping in to a relationship with Adam with barely any hesitation. The author attempted to bring in an internal battle briefly, but it moved on rather swiftly. It didn't really impact the story at all.
Another issue I had is in relation to something I did enjoy - The wolf/man internal dynamic. Susanna kept telling us that the wolf knows, but the man may take some time to catch up... but it didn't actually happen in the story. I wish we could have seen more of this. More details in this instead of it just being told to us a handful of times.
The alpha dynamic was disappointing too.
Overall, there was the possibility for a good story here - There's potential for sure! Flesh out the story more, shore up these holes and I think there's a good book in these pages!
June 22, 2024
Marit has found her now ex-fiance cheating and goes right to work to talk to her cousins. On her way there she sees this big man that makes her stop in her tracks just with his stare. How can a person literally stop you with one glance? She doesn't know how but she's about to find out.
I absolutely love that Adam calls Marit "Kitten". I wish he used it more though. It wasn't enough. The fact that both Adam and Marit literally had to stop walking because they caught each other's eye is epic. It's sweet how Adam will always be with and protect Marit even if that means he won't become Alpha. Marit it quite sassy. I definitely wasn't expecting those twists. I like Annika and Liv.
I absolutely love that Adam calls Marit "Kitten". I wish he used it more though. It wasn't enough. The fact that both Adam and Marit literally had to stop walking because they caught each other's eye is epic. It's sweet how Adam will always be with and protect Marit even if that means he won't become Alpha. Marit it quite sassy. I definitely wasn't expecting those twists. I like Annika and Liv.
June 23, 2023
Great start to a new series! The author brings strong characters in Adam and Merit and weaves an interesting story filled with twists and turns along with the steamy romance. She adds in a terrific cast of supporting characters and paints her scenes perfectly. It's well written with an intriguing storyline. I'm looking forward to the next book. Loved and recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
June 14, 2023
I love when a new-to-me author gives me a book that seems to check all of my boxes!
❥ instalove/fated mate vibes
❥ Protective hero and compassionate heroine
❥ lovely side characters
❥ Tons of love and heat
At first, I found Marit to be a bit abrasive, despite understanding why she was rude and aggressive with Adam, however, she quickly grew on me. Once she gave herself a break, her character showed me she was full of such strong emotion, more than capable of being an equal to Adam. And Adam… I wasn’t even surprised by how much I enjoyed this character.
The author did an amazing job of weaving together the new connection growing between her characters, a sense of doom for the pack, and a bit of mystery. I was able to answer some of my questions pretty quickly, but I did not expect some of the twists and I loved that. I appreciated being surprised, especially when I thought I had things all figured out.
There was so much warmth between all of the characters. I found the expected spice between Adam and Marit, but their relationship, no matter how quickly they got there, was also full of so much heart. And the side characters, including her cousins and his, made me want even more. I’m hoping they each get their own story and that the subplot gets resolved in the books to come.
❥ instalove/fated mate vibes
❥ Protective hero and compassionate heroine
❥ lovely side characters
❥ Tons of love and heat
At first, I found Marit to be a bit abrasive, despite understanding why she was rude and aggressive with Adam, however, she quickly grew on me. Once she gave herself a break, her character showed me she was full of such strong emotion, more than capable of being an equal to Adam. And Adam… I wasn’t even surprised by how much I enjoyed this character.
The author did an amazing job of weaving together the new connection growing between her characters, a sense of doom for the pack, and a bit of mystery. I was able to answer some of my questions pretty quickly, but I did not expect some of the twists and I loved that. I appreciated being surprised, especially when I thought I had things all figured out.
There was so much warmth between all of the characters. I found the expected spice between Adam and Marit, but their relationship, no matter how quickly they got there, was also full of so much heart. And the side characters, including her cousins and his, made me want even more. I’m hoping they each get their own story and that the subplot gets resolved in the books to come.
November 8, 2024
Get ready to plunge into a world where werewolves and pastry chefs collide and, no, this isn’t your usual Cupcake Wars! 🐺🧁
In Secrets of Shooting Star Lake, Susanna Strom serves up a delicious mix of romance, suspense, and supernatural drama that kicks off the Black Rock Guardians series in style.
Adam, our fierce werewolf MMC, just wants one thing from Marit, the sassy chef with a knack for French pastries: her land. But the universe has other ideas. Turns out, Marit is his fated mate, a cosmic twist that Adam, as a devoted alpha, can’t ignore, no matter the high stakes or potential bloodshed looming in the shifter world. For Marit, though, the idea of soul mates is about as realistic as a calorie-free croissant. Yet, resisting Adam’s primal charm? Let’s just say the challenge is real…. *swoon*
Strom gives us plenty of angst, undeniable chemistry, and just the right dash of action and adventure to keep the pages flying.
Fans of paranormal romance will be hooked by the sizzling tension and the dangerous allure of a secret war brewing in the woods. If you’re ready to believe in the (furry) fated-mates trope, or even if you’re just curious to see if Marit might come around, this book has all the ingredients of a swoon-worthy paranormal delight.
📚 Who should read this? Anyone who loves a little magic with their romance, doesn’t mind some growls with their gourmet, and wants to be swept into a series that promises equal parts passion and danger.
This is truly a fun and addictive read. Cannot wait to read more into this series.
September 12, 2024
3.5 that I’ll bump to four.
It had a good, solid plot that’s going to continue to other books but didn’t stop this one from wrapping up well.
Did I figure out the Big Reveal before it happened? Yes. 100%. Buuuut honestly, I have better intuition about this stuff than most so there’s a good chance you won’t figure it out.
The writing was solid, the relationship believable (I’m always willing to accept the fast timeline of a fated mate because *~magic~*). Marit felt drawn to Adam but it wasn’t until she saw him shift and he TOLD her about mates that she really started to consider it.
And even then she had her reservations.
Spice was pretty good. Not crazy out of this world hot but good.
I had two major hang ups. The first being, absolutely no talk of birth control. I’m entirely ready to believe that wolf shifters cannot catch or pass on venerable diseases. But they didn’t, for one second, stop to talk about pregnancy? REALLY?!
Also, what about Marit’s parents? She briefly mentions her parents in the beginning, about coming to her failed wedding and her father and his twin are mentioned off and on, so obviously not dead. But there is zero mention of them. It almost seems like her grandmother raised all of them which leads the question as to WHY. And if she didn’t, why are her grandmother’s sons left out of so much of the conversation? Are you planning to tell them that they’re half shifter? Who their father was? Like, I just have so many questions.
It had a good, solid plot that’s going to continue to other books but didn’t stop this one from wrapping up well.
Did I figure out the Big Reveal before it happened? Yes. 100%. Buuuut honestly, I have better intuition about this stuff than most so there’s a good chance you won’t figure it out.
The writing was solid, the relationship believable (I’m always willing to accept the fast timeline of a fated mate because *~magic~*). Marit felt drawn to Adam but it wasn’t until she saw him shift and he TOLD her about mates that she really started to consider it.
And even then she had her reservations.
Spice was pretty good. Not crazy out of this world hot but good.
I had two major hang ups. The first being, absolutely no talk of birth control. I’m entirely ready to believe that wolf shifters cannot catch or pass on venerable diseases. But they didn’t, for one second, stop to talk about pregnancy? REALLY?!
Also, what about Marit’s parents? She briefly mentions her parents in the beginning, about coming to her failed wedding and her father and his twin are mentioned off and on, so obviously not dead. But there is zero mention of them. It almost seems like her grandmother raised all of them which leads the question as to WHY. And if she didn’t, why are her grandmother’s sons left out of so much of the conversation? Are you planning to tell them that they’re half shifter? Who their father was? Like, I just have so many questions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 12, 2023
Secrets of Shooting Star Lake by Susanna Strom is book one in her Black Rock Guardians series.
Marit Hagen just wanted to recover from her disastrous relationship at her grandmother’s cabin in the woods. She needs the peace and quiet. She doesn’t need to be distracted by her peculiar attraction to Adam Landry.
Adam Landry, grandson of the alpha of his wolf pack, has always admired Freya Hagen from afar. The old lady had spunk. However, he doesn’t expect to connect to her granddaughter on sight.
Their connection is forbidden by pack law. They’ll have to defy all the rules and outwit pack enemies to appease fate.
This is a great introduction to the series. The plot is compelling with great twists and is appropriately paced. The characters are well-rounded with adequate backstories. Secrets of Shooting Star Lake is one of Susanna Strom’s best novels. I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of this 5 out of 5 stars novel and highly recommend it to all readers of paranormal romance, especially shifter romance.
My thanks to Independent Publishers Group, Cougar Creek Publishing LLC, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
January 23, 2024
This is my first time reading a book by this author Susanna Strom and I am fan of paranormal shifters so, I can say that I reading Secrets Of Shooting Star Lake. This is the 1st book in the “Black Rock Guardians Series.” Adam is a sexy werewolf shifter. Marit is a human and she catches her fiancé who is a coyote cheating on her with the wedding planner and she heads back to her bakery. Adam and Marit meet at her bakery and for Adam he knows that Marit is his fated mate. Adam has a problem his pack is not into human and werewolves being fated mates. Marit finds herself off to her grandmother’s cabin that is near Adam’s pack and his pack is in need of the land that the cabin is on. The thing is that Marit’s ex pack wants the land also.
Marit is not shy when it comes to shifters, so will she accept Adam as her fated mate, will Adam’s pack be ok with accepting a human into the pack, who will get the land that Marit’s grandmother’s cabin is on will it be Adam or Marit’s ex-fiancé’s pack?
I received an ARC via NetGalley and Independent Publishers Group, Cougar Creek Publishing LLC and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
Marit is not shy when it comes to shifters, so will she accept Adam as her fated mate, will Adam’s pack be ok with accepting a human into the pack, who will get the land that Marit’s grandmother’s cabin is on will it be Adam or Marit’s ex-fiancé’s pack?
I received an ARC via NetGalley and Independent Publishers Group, Cougar Creek Publishing LLC and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
July 8, 2023
Wow - this was a really fun read that had me hooked from the start! I can’t wait to see where this series ends up taking us!
Adam is a potential alpha to the pack, tasked with picking up cupcakes when he meets Marit. Marit is a baker dealing with the loss of her grandmother and some recent shocks by heading in to work. This chance meeting ends up getting weirder for them both when it turns out Marit owns the cabin that Adam’s pack is looking to purchase. Oh, and she’s Adam’s mate.
For Marit, supernatural folks are still not a “real thing” so there are oodles of secrets and hiding at the start of Adam and Maria’s friendship. Take all this and throw in some very aggressive enemies that force Adam’s hand, and we’ve got a lot for Marit to take in. These two are a great pairing and I was really engaged in the potential mysteries of Marit’s past. I love all the characters and cannot wait to see the next pairing we get! All in all, this was a wonderful start to a new series by an author I will now be watching.
Adam is a potential alpha to the pack, tasked with picking up cupcakes when he meets Marit. Marit is a baker dealing with the loss of her grandmother and some recent shocks by heading in to work. This chance meeting ends up getting weirder for them both when it turns out Marit owns the cabin that Adam’s pack is looking to purchase. Oh, and she’s Adam’s mate.
For Marit, supernatural folks are still not a “real thing” so there are oodles of secrets and hiding at the start of Adam and Maria’s friendship. Take all this and throw in some very aggressive enemies that force Adam’s hand, and we’ve got a lot for Marit to take in. These two are a great pairing and I was really engaged in the potential mysteries of Marit’s past. I love all the characters and cannot wait to see the next pairing we get! All in all, this was a wonderful start to a new series by an author I will now be watching.
October 8, 2023
"Know this. Now and forever, I will keep you safe."
5 stars!
This book was such a fantastic surprise! This was my first novel by Susanna, and I thoroughly enjoyed the easy flow and writing style. The characters were multi-dimensional (including the secondary characters), and I loved how strong Marit was in the face of Bryce's bullshit and Adam's sexy intensity. I loved how obsessed Adam was with Marit from their first meet; despite the many obstacles their relationship faces, he never doubts their connection or his devotion to her. The ending brought so many surprises and hidden truths, but I am most excited about Zane and Annika! I have a feeling that Zane is going to be such a grumpy, awkward hero, and I am so freaking excited to see him fall for his mate🖤
Tropes: fated mates, forbidden love, he falls first, protective possessive hero, heroine-in-danger, 'touch her and die' vibes, hidden past, isolated cabin, OM drama (no cheating), slow burn, STEAMY🔥
February 27, 2025
Detailed Review
Title: Secrets of Shooting Star Lake
(Black Rock Guardians Book 1)
Author: Susanna Strom
Release: June 27, 2023
Pages: 328
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Main Characters: Adam & Marit
Tropes: Forbidden, Fated Mates, Shifters, Instant Connection, Action and Adventure.
⭐️ 4/5
🌶️ 2/5
After being betrayed by someone she believed she loved, Marit meets a stranger she is immediately attracted to.
While fleeing her hometown to seek comfort at her family cabin at Shooting Star Lake, she unexpectedly reunites with Adam, the stranger. Their connection is profound, and he understands the reasons behind it.
Marit grapples with her feelings for Adam and with new revelations about her past.
Adam is portrayed as strong, loyal, possessive, and protective. The authors’ writing captivates with well-developed characters and their intense emotional and physical dynamics. The book’s spice is subtle yet enjoyable.
I truly appreciated this book; it was an easy read with words that flowed smoothly and cohesively. I am eagerly looking forward to Book 2!
Title: Secrets of Shooting Star Lake
(Black Rock Guardians Book 1)
Author: Susanna Strom
Release: June 27, 2023
Pages: 328
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Main Characters: Adam & Marit
Tropes: Forbidden, Fated Mates, Shifters, Instant Connection, Action and Adventure.
⭐️ 4/5
🌶️ 2/5
After being betrayed by someone she believed she loved, Marit meets a stranger she is immediately attracted to.
While fleeing her hometown to seek comfort at her family cabin at Shooting Star Lake, she unexpectedly reunites with Adam, the stranger. Their connection is profound, and he understands the reasons behind it.
Marit grapples with her feelings for Adam and with new revelations about her past.
Adam is portrayed as strong, loyal, possessive, and protective. The authors’ writing captivates with well-developed characters and their intense emotional and physical dynamics. The book’s spice is subtle yet enjoyable.
I truly appreciated this book; it was an easy read with words that flowed smoothly and cohesively. I am eagerly looking forward to Book 2!
June 22, 2023
An Engaging Storyline
Marit needed to be alone after the shock she had received and went to her Grandmother’s cabin to think things through which is when she encountered Adam again after she had been attacked.
Adam knew that Marit was his fated mate but she didn’t know who he really was and he was forbidden to mate with a human.
Once Marit by chance had seen him shift, things changed, Marit became aware of the supernatural creatures and how she was in the middle of all the strange things that had been happening!
An intense, slow burn into love fated mates romance, filled with action, suspense, wonderful characters, some shocking secrets revealed, hot steamy moments plus a great storyline which will keep you on your toes.
I couldn’t put it down! I had to read it all in one go! Looking forward to the next in the series!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Marit needed to be alone after the shock she had received and went to her Grandmother’s cabin to think things through which is when she encountered Adam again after she had been attacked.
Adam knew that Marit was his fated mate but she didn’t know who he really was and he was forbidden to mate with a human.
Once Marit by chance had seen him shift, things changed, Marit became aware of the supernatural creatures and how she was in the middle of all the strange things that had been happening!
An intense, slow burn into love fated mates romance, filled with action, suspense, wonderful characters, some shocking secrets revealed, hot steamy moments plus a great storyline which will keep you on your toes.
I couldn’t put it down! I had to read it all in one go! Looking forward to the next in the series!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own
June 26, 2023
Secrets of Shooting Star Lake by Susanna Strom
Publisher: Independent Publishers Group, Cougar Creek Publishing LLC
Genre: Romance, Sci Fi & Fantasy
Expected Publication Date: June 27, 2023
Secrets of Shooting Star Lake is the first book in the Black Rock Guardians by Susanna Strom and I absolutely loved it!
I could not put this book down! It grabbed me on page one and did not let go until I reached the last page (when I sadly stopped reading because there was no more pages). Even after I finished the book, I was not ready to return to reality because the world the author created was so fascinating and I needed more.
I thought the story was incredible and the characters were amazing! I want to go back! I will definetly be reading this one again before book 2 is released! I highly recommend reading this book if you are looking for an escape and a wonderful romance!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Publisher: Independent Publishers Group, Cougar Creek Publishing LLC
Genre: Romance, Sci Fi & Fantasy
Expected Publication Date: June 27, 2023
Secrets of Shooting Star Lake is the first book in the Black Rock Guardians by Susanna Strom and I absolutely loved it!
I could not put this book down! It grabbed me on page one and did not let go until I reached the last page (when I sadly stopped reading because there was no more pages). Even after I finished the book, I was not ready to return to reality because the world the author created was so fascinating and I needed more.
I thought the story was incredible and the characters were amazing! I want to go back! I will definetly be reading this one again before book 2 is released! I highly recommend reading this book if you are looking for an escape and a wonderful romance!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 27, 2024
A perfect combination of sweet, salty, and spicy. The story is enough to melt your heart. There are hair pin curves in the story plot. You find yourself hanging on and not wanting to stop reading because the story holds your attention frozen in its grip. I love how the characters are strong, especially the women. Unexpectedly strong women. Adam is a walking contradiction. A strong, intelligent, powerful and brutal when needed wolf. Then, you realize that he is soft, loving, and compassionate. The devotion that he shows Marit melts your heart. Marit is strong, heartbroken, cynical and almost sullen. Her canceled wedding seems to weigh heavily. Along comes Adam, who is everything she could dream of and more. Their story doesn’t fall into any form of traditional. Loved it! Almost late for work due to getting caught up in the story. Didn’t want to put the story down, woke with my glasses on and my Kindle lost in the bed. Worth it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2023
Marit runs a bakery and just left her ex-fiance after finding him with her wedding planner. Adam is one of the wolf shifter pack that wants to include the property she lives on, as part of their land, for a solid front during the upcoming war. Adam knows she is his mate and the entertaining situations go full throttle ahead. The locales are vivid, the characters have great personalities and backstories, are hopeful and determined. The storyline catches you right at the start and does not let go. Loved the chemistry, banter and heartwarming connection. Plenty of drama, danger, twists, and surprises. Great ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 27, 2023
Marit and Adam's Story . . .
Marit had the misfortune of finding her ex-fiancé with the wedding planner. So she goes to the isolated cabin to get over the experience. Instead, she meets Adam Landry, a member of a wolf shifter pack hoping to obtain her property to add it to their land to gain an advantage in the upcoming shifter war. Adam recognizes that Marit Hagen is his fated mate and he will do everything within his power to keep her safe. Will she understand what he is trying to tell her? Is she willing to become his?
This was a good story line and the characters were likable. Her being human will complicate things, but Adam is not willing to give up his mate. Will things work out for them? Or is she jaded from what her ex-fiancé did and unwilling to get involved with someone again?
Marit had the misfortune of finding her ex-fiancé with the wedding planner. So she goes to the isolated cabin to get over the experience. Instead, she meets Adam Landry, a member of a wolf shifter pack hoping to obtain her property to add it to their land to gain an advantage in the upcoming shifter war. Adam recognizes that Marit Hagen is his fated mate and he will do everything within his power to keep her safe. Will she understand what he is trying to tell her? Is she willing to become his?
This was a good story line and the characters were likable. Her being human will complicate things, but Adam is not willing to give up his mate. Will things work out for them? Or is she jaded from what her ex-fiancé did and unwilling to get involved with someone again?
November 2, 2023
Cover is really Hot 🔥
H: Adam Landry (wolf shifter)
h: Marit Hagen (human)
Marit runs a bakery business with her twin cousins. Marit finds out that
her fiance was sleeping with the wedding planner so she dumped him and headed out to her late grandmother's cabin to clear out our head. The cabin is located in the wolf shifter land and they have been trying to have Marit's grandma to sell her lease on the cabin but she refuses.
Anyways, Adam and Marit meet and immediately his wolf knows she is his mate but they stop mating with humans decades ago. The story was not bad at all.. I was kind of confused about the rock on the wrist situation, that's supposed to give them healing powers and allow them to transform into wolves. (hard to explain) the story was good.. but a little boring since nothing really exciting happened.
H: Adam Landry (wolf shifter)
h: Marit Hagen (human)
Marit runs a bakery business with her twin cousins. Marit finds out that
her fiance was sleeping with the wedding planner so she dumped him and headed out to her late grandmother's cabin to clear out our head. The cabin is located in the wolf shifter land and they have been trying to have Marit's grandma to sell her lease on the cabin but she refuses.
Anyways, Adam and Marit meet and immediately his wolf knows she is his mate but they stop mating with humans decades ago. The story was not bad at all.. I was kind of confused about the rock on the wrist situation, that's supposed to give them healing powers and allow them to transform into wolves. (hard to explain) the story was good.. but a little boring since nothing really exciting happened.
June 26, 2023
Marit walks in on her fiancé with their wedding planner…I know, right. This really starts quite the whirlwind story, kind of a domino effect, and puts her in the path of the wolf shifter Adam, and a shifter war. This is the first book of this series, and a very good start. This is a fast paced book filled with quite a few what the moments, and she finds out nothing is as it seems in their town. I am anxious for the second book…need it nowish.
Safe read with a baker and her bossy wolf shifter mate. Good fast paced storyline with some funny moments, when she licked him, and then apologized because she didn’t know why, I about lost it. So funny. Gain quite a few favorite characters, some of the pack members and her two cousins. Epilogue and hea….next book please.
Safe read with a baker and her bossy wolf shifter mate. Good fast paced storyline with some funny moments, when she licked him, and then apologized because she didn’t know why, I about lost it. So funny. Gain quite a few favorite characters, some of the pack members and her two cousins. Epilogue and hea….next book please.
July 1, 2023
The start of a wonderful new series. This is a new to me author, and one who will be on my watch list for new releases. I loved her writing style - I loved how she brought the characters to life and kept my attention while continuing to unveil the an intriguing backstory.
Marit was a warm-hearted and strong female lead. She had a fantastic relationship with her twin cousins. Her initial encounters with Adam were all after she was under extreme stress, but she recognized his sexy and protective presence. These two were fantastic together and I’m intrigued by what may be in store for her cousins Liv and Annika.
I received a free ARC from the author and Hidden Gems; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
Marit was a warm-hearted and strong female lead. She had a fantastic relationship with her twin cousins. Her initial encounters with Adam were all after she was under extreme stress, but she recognized his sexy and protective presence. These two were fantastic together and I’m intrigued by what may be in store for her cousins Liv and Annika.
I received a free ARC from the author and Hidden Gems; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
January 12, 2024
Near Perfect
Loved the story and the people. This storyline and its people are both interesting and multilayered. There are so many possible storylines to develop from here, I am happily anticipating the rest of the series.
There were a couple of plot twists I suspected, due to some very clever foreshadowing, so it was a delight to see how they played out. But the plot twist at the end--it stunned me. I loved Marit's strength and her grace under pressure.
Content: I did take one star off for the erotica. It's detailed, though limited to only two scenes. For me, erotica is a waste of words because I read for the story, not for the "stream." There is swearing from time to time.
Overall, it's near perfect :)
Happy reading!
Loved the story and the people. This storyline and its people are both interesting and multilayered. There are so many possible storylines to develop from here, I am happily anticipating the rest of the series.
There were a couple of plot twists I suspected, due to some very clever foreshadowing, so it was a delight to see how they played out. But the plot twist at the end--it stunned me. I loved Marit's strength and her grace under pressure.
Content: I did take one star off for the erotica. It's detailed, though limited to only two scenes. For me, erotica is a waste of words because I read for the story, not for the "stream." There is swearing from time to time.
Overall, it's near perfect :)
Happy reading!
June 13, 2023
I have been eagerly anticipating a new read from Susanna Strom and Secrets of Shooting Star Lake did not disappoint! Strom has created a new world full of shifters to kick off her second series. The book has all of the action, romance, close family bonds, and thundering plot that I've come to expect from this author, with a fun paranormal twist. I loved both Adam and Marit's characters (especially how protective Adam was) and how their story unfolded. What a great launch to the Black Rock Guardians series. I can't wait for Zane's book!
Thank you to NetGalley and Cougar Creek Publishing for access to this arc.
Thank you to NetGalley and Cougar Creek Publishing for access to this arc.
June 28, 2023
This was a fab series opener that brought together Adam and Marit. She's just found her fiancé in a very compromising position and heads off for some recovery time in peace. She's met Adam in town and felt that connection but now doesn't trust her heart when it comes to men... Adam's inner wolf knew right away what she was to him but mating humans is not allowed. However, when fate picks your mate, you find a way ;) This well written fated mates romance was well paced, had action, suspense, danger, great twists and a steamy romance that kept me glued to my reader. I enjoyed exploring this new shifter world and can't wait for more :D
October 25, 2023
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 5.0
~~~~~~~~~~Tracy's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Adam is a wolf shifter slated for the next Alpha in his pack, he lives in a world that the humans know nothing of. When Adam meets Merit and he knows she is his fated mate there is only one problem, she doesn't know what he is and she is human and it is forbidden to mate with a human. I really loved this story and once I picked it up I couldn't put it down. I can't wait for the next book in this series, definitely a breath of fresh air and a much needed story that I could dive into and forget the world for a bit. Highly recommended!!!
~~~~~~~~~~Julie's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Adam and Merit are absolutely perfect for one another. Mates are forever and trust is a must. Great writing.
~~~~~~~~~~Tracy's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Adam is a wolf shifter slated for the next Alpha in his pack, he lives in a world that the humans know nothing of. When Adam meets Merit and he knows she is his fated mate there is only one problem, she doesn't know what he is and she is human and it is forbidden to mate with a human. I really loved this story and once I picked it up I couldn't put it down. I can't wait for the next book in this series, definitely a breath of fresh air and a much needed story that I could dive into and forget the world for a bit. Highly recommended!!!
~~~~~~~~~~Julie's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Adam and Merit are absolutely perfect for one another. Mates are forever and trust is a must. Great writing.
June 21, 2023
This is a great story starting with betrayal, and moving along toward True Love! Marit and Adam are a wonderful match. This story flowed perfectly, and I just could not put it down. There is action, steam, and a beautiful Happily Ever After. This is an original shifter story, and I am looking forward to more of the Black Rock Guardians. I LOVED IT!!! No Spoilers!
I received an ARC and I am Leaving this Totally Honest Review because I Choose to and think that this is a Fantastic Shifter Romance!!!
I received an ARC and I am Leaving this Totally Honest Review because I Choose to and think that this is a Fantastic Shifter Romance!!!
June 27, 2023
This book has instalove/fated mates/string FMC and MMC, suspense, betrayal, Wolf Shifters, Protective Alpha, great side characters.
This was a great read and fast paced, but it needed more action and perhaps some of the scenes playing out more (like the fire science for example) would have loved to have seen more angst and a darker side to the plot. I hate slow burns BUT I wish there had been more to the relationship building between Adam and Marit instead of jumping all in with about 10 days.
However it was a great read, the story was a great introduction to shifter romance for me. I would definitely like to read Zane and Anikas story.
This was a great read and fast paced, but it needed more action and perhaps some of the scenes playing out more (like the fire science for example) would have loved to have seen more angst and a darker side to the plot. I hate slow burns BUT I wish there had been more to the relationship building between Adam and Marit instead of jumping all in with about 10 days.
However it was a great read, the story was a great introduction to shifter romance for me. I would definitely like to read Zane and Anikas story.
June 26, 2023
Adam and Marit drew me into this story right from the beginning. She is devastated when she walks in on her now ex-fiancé in a compromising situation. In leaving she bumps into Adam and a connection is formed. His wolf knows that she is his mate, and their path begins. Their journey will have several twists and turns and in the end she and her cousins will learn about a side of their family they had no idea existed. This is a well written story that had me connecting with the characters and cheering on Adam and Marita to get their chance for happiness.
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