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Werewolf Mates #2
Protector's Mate
A seductive werewolf claimed her land… and their passion draws a sinister being that he needs to battle After two years in a war zone, werewolf Felicia Serna has finally returned to find another pack has taken over her territory...and the new second-in-command is the very man who haunts her fantasies.Alaric has wanted Felicia from the moment he laid eyes on her, and now he’s ready to claim her. When a threatening shifter begins stalking them, he’s determined to protect her...even if it means putting his seduction on hold. But even in the heat of danger, their red-hot passion cannot be denied.
55 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2012
21 people are currently reading
475 people want to read
About the author
Katie Reus
164 books3,245 followersKatie Reus® is the USA Today bestselling author of the Endgame trilogy, the MacArthur Family series and the Deadly Ops series. She fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom's stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it. However, she didn't always know she wanted to be a writer. After changing majors many times, she finally graduated with a degree in psychology. Not long after that she discovered a new love. Writing. She now spends her days writing paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
April 8, 2021
Narrator Review: Rating: 5 Stars
I have absolutely no complaints with Natasha Singh's performance. She hit all the key points I look for in a narrator. 1)Distinguishing between characters 2)likability of opposite sex voice. 3)accents, to which there was none. She did an outstanding job and I would recommend the audio book version. Borrowed on the Audible Romance Package
Story Review: Rating 5 Stars
I'm going to be a broken record with this series because I love this author and I love how she writes her main characters. It would be a rare thing for me to not like any of her books.
Aleric is a dominant wolf, second in command to his pack. He met Felicia who is part of another pack when she was just 19. He instantly wanted to claim her but knew he had to give her time to spread her wings a bit before he could. While he waited he kept a very close eye on her until he felt she was ready. He went 5 years waiting in the back ground and not once was he with another woman. I absolutely love that!
Felicia ran from her pack when her alpha demanded she submit to him and his mate. wanting no part in being their toy, she went out on her own. It's been two years since she left and has decided to move back but just out of reach of her old Alpha's territory. She wasn't expecting Aleric to be waiting for her at the airport.
Once again, for a short story, it was also very satisfying due to the fact that this author writes the best Hero and heroines. Onto the next in the series...
I have absolutely no complaints with Natasha Singh's performance. She hit all the key points I look for in a narrator. 1)Distinguishing between characters 2)likability of opposite sex voice. 3)accents, to which there was none. She did an outstanding job and I would recommend the audio book version. Borrowed on the Audible Romance Package
Story Review: Rating 5 Stars
I'm going to be a broken record with this series because I love this author and I love how she writes her main characters. It would be a rare thing for me to not like any of her books.
Aleric is a dominant wolf, second in command to his pack. He met Felicia who is part of another pack when she was just 19. He instantly wanted to claim her but knew he had to give her time to spread her wings a bit before he could. While he waited he kept a very close eye on her until he felt she was ready. He went 5 years waiting in the back ground and not once was he with another woman. I absolutely love that!
Felicia ran from her pack when her alpha demanded she submit to him and his mate. wanting no part in being their toy, she went out on her own. It's been two years since she left and has decided to move back but just out of reach of her old Alpha's territory. She wasn't expecting Aleric to be waiting for her at the airport.
Once again, for a short story, it was also very satisfying due to the fact that this author writes the best Hero and heroines. Onto the next in the series...
March 12, 2012
Felicia ran from her pack and their harsh treatment of her, the unworthy mongrel. She found a life among humans in Afghanistan. Using her nursing skills she was able to help many people. Her werewolf genes allowed her to go into dangerous situations without having to worry about injuries that would kill a mere human. After two years her contract has ended and now she finds herself returning home with few options of where to go.
Alaric has spent the past two years worried about Felicia. He has kept tabs on her, always known her whereabouts and how she was doing. After a while the tabs weren’t enough. That’s when he started emailing her. Alaric has known for too long that Felicia was his mate. He knows that she doesn’t seem to notice this herself. What’s a wolf to do? He starts emailing her flirty emails and he continues to increase the intensity of his flirtiness. He’s assuming this will let her know his feelings and intentions…wrong.
Alaric is not allowed any peace in his courtship of Felicia. They are immediately stalked and attacked. Felicia fears that it is repercussions from her abandoning her old pack. Alaric fears that it is more inner turmoil from the recent killing of an Alpha and the consolidations of a pack along with an important treaty that is about to take place. Neither one of them could have ever imagined what the attacks were really all about.
I absolutely loved Alaric! He was so different from the typical werewolf male who is after his mate. He try’s for subtly. He doesn’t go Neanderthal. He really wants this to be an easy going process. The problem is she’s trying to avoid pack life and not telling anyone that she is returning home. Felicia has been treated cruelly by pack mates and has never known her true worth amongst a pack. This makes Alaric’s pursuit of Felicia all the more intense.
Alaric and Felicia are wonderful characters to read. Alaric is such a caring male. Felicia is kind and compassionate. Even though she’s had a rough life she never comes off as that female with little self-esteem who’s enjoying her own private pity party. She figured out early on that if she needed something she had to get it herself, thus she can take care of herself. Felicia was a great strong female heroine to read.
Now go buy it!
Alaric has spent the past two years worried about Felicia. He has kept tabs on her, always known her whereabouts and how she was doing. After a while the tabs weren’t enough. That’s when he started emailing her. Alaric has known for too long that Felicia was his mate. He knows that she doesn’t seem to notice this herself. What’s a wolf to do? He starts emailing her flirty emails and he continues to increase the intensity of his flirtiness. He’s assuming this will let her know his feelings and intentions…wrong.
Alaric is not allowed any peace in his courtship of Felicia. They are immediately stalked and attacked. Felicia fears that it is repercussions from her abandoning her old pack. Alaric fears that it is more inner turmoil from the recent killing of an Alpha and the consolidations of a pack along with an important treaty that is about to take place. Neither one of them could have ever imagined what the attacks were really all about.
I absolutely loved Alaric! He was so different from the typical werewolf male who is after his mate. He try’s for subtly. He doesn’t go Neanderthal. He really wants this to be an easy going process. The problem is she’s trying to avoid pack life and not telling anyone that she is returning home. Felicia has been treated cruelly by pack mates and has never known her true worth amongst a pack. This makes Alaric’s pursuit of Felicia all the more intense.
Alaric and Felicia are wonderful characters to read. Alaric is such a caring male. Felicia is kind and compassionate. Even though she’s had a rough life she never comes off as that female with little self-esteem who’s enjoying her own private pity party. She figured out early on that if she needed something she had to get it herself, thus she can take care of herself. Felicia was a great strong female heroine to read.
Now go buy it!
August 20, 2017
Short, sweet, and smexy shifters....everything I love about werewolves protecting and claiming their mates *swoonworthy*
April 12, 2012
My Rating: 4 stars: Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Felicia is a wolf shifter that was betrayed and hurt by her own pack. She fled overseas to use her nursing skills in a war zone. After her service is up, she sneaks back home, hoping to make a quiet life for herself. Alaric, second command of Felicia’s new pack, has lusted after Felicia for years - always keeping a distance since she was too young to commit to the mating call. (We meet Alaric in the first book, Destined Mate.) Knowing that he cannot live without Felicia, he picks her up at the airport, and the pair come under attack.
This second novella in Ms. Reus’s unnamed shifter series starts of with a bang and keeps going. Without the need of much world-building (although you don't need to read first novella), Protector’s Mate jumps right into the romance between Alaric and Felicia. We learn about the current situation and the characters’ pasts organically - either through scene building or since we are privy to both Alaric and Felicia’s point-of-view, we get insight into their pasts via internal thought process. The story flows smoothly, which is critical for a novella-length story.
Basically they both lust for the other. I love that Alaric has known from the moment he met Felicia that she was his mate, but he held off claiming her or bringing her to his pack because of her age (19). He didn't trust himself not to claim her, so gave her space. So swoon-worthy. I was instantly invested in the couple and enjoyed reading how they let go of their pasts to move forward together.
The couple comes together so perfectly. Their first kiss is equal parts steamy, sweet and romantic. And the smex is hot! Both characters are strong yet vulnerable. Felicia has been mentally and emotionally broken by her former pack and leader. Yet she gives herself an attitude "adjustment" as Alaric makes his advances on her. She went from "why would anyone want me" to "not sure why, but he does want me so I am going to open up and enjoy it." That never seems to happen in romances - and I admire the strength and fortitude Felicia demonstrates time and time again throughout the story.
Other than the focus on the primary couple, there is external conflict and a few bad guys. It’s just enough to add action and minor tension to the storyline, but it doesn’t take away focus from the love story. This is just as it should be for a novella-length story.
Protector’s Mate is a quick read, free of major road bumps, and an all-around enjoyable story. It is sexy with just enough tension for the shorter length.
Felicia is a wolf shifter that was betrayed and hurt by her own pack. She fled overseas to use her nursing skills in a war zone. After her service is up, she sneaks back home, hoping to make a quiet life for herself. Alaric, second command of Felicia’s new pack, has lusted after Felicia for years - always keeping a distance since she was too young to commit to the mating call. (We meet Alaric in the first book, Destined Mate.) Knowing that he cannot live without Felicia, he picks her up at the airport, and the pair come under attack.
This second novella in Ms. Reus’s unnamed shifter series starts of with a bang and keeps going. Without the need of much world-building (although you don't need to read first novella), Protector’s Mate jumps right into the romance between Alaric and Felicia. We learn about the current situation and the characters’ pasts organically - either through scene building or since we are privy to both Alaric and Felicia’s point-of-view, we get insight into their pasts via internal thought process. The story flows smoothly, which is critical for a novella-length story.
Basically they both lust for the other. I love that Alaric has known from the moment he met Felicia that she was his mate, but he held off claiming her or bringing her to his pack because of her age (19). He didn't trust himself not to claim her, so gave her space. So swoon-worthy. I was instantly invested in the couple and enjoyed reading how they let go of their pasts to move forward together.
The couple comes together so perfectly. Their first kiss is equal parts steamy, sweet and romantic. And the smex is hot! Both characters are strong yet vulnerable. Felicia has been mentally and emotionally broken by her former pack and leader. Yet she gives herself an attitude "adjustment" as Alaric makes his advances on her. She went from "why would anyone want me" to "not sure why, but he does want me so I am going to open up and enjoy it." That never seems to happen in romances - and I admire the strength and fortitude Felicia demonstrates time and time again throughout the story.
Other than the focus on the primary couple, there is external conflict and a few bad guys. It’s just enough to add action and minor tension to the storyline, but it doesn’t take away focus from the love story. This is just as it should be for a novella-length story.
Protector’s Mate is a quick read, free of major road bumps, and an all-around enjoyable story. It is sexy with just enough tension for the shorter length.
April 2, 2012
My Review:
A- rating
Ooh, what a fabulous book. Felicia is home after spending two years in Afghanistan as a nurse. Two years ago, she fled from her pack after the alpha pursued her and she turned him down. She's always been rebuffed by her pack. She was abandoned as a pup and nothing that her pack has done over the years has ever helped to improve her self-image.
When Felicia met Alaric, she was only nineteen years old and felt an immediate draw to him, but she never thought she would be worthy of his attention, so she ignored the feelings. What she didn't realize is that they are actually destined mates and he actually felt it too, but he wanted to give her time since she was so young.
Alaric has always known that Felicia was his destined mate, but he didn't realize how bad things were for her within her pack. He's kept tabs on her from afar and has maintained his loyalty to her even though she didn't realize their bond.
There's a lot of emotion to this book. Felicia has taken so many incredibly harsh hits over the years. She has a very vulnerable edge to her. She feels unworthy and pitiful especially in the light of Alaric's overwhelming physical perfection. He handles her with utmost care and it's absolutely gorgeous to watch. This book is called Protector's Mate because that's all Alaric wants to do...protect Felicia from any more harm. How can you not fall in love with a guy like that?
In the midst of all that, there is the action of several attacks against the two of them which are very exciting. While Felicia may have self-doubts, she is definitely a capable warrior and will make an excellent mate/match for Alaric. This girl is tough, which after two years in a war zone, stands to reason. She can stand on her own two feet and isn't afraid to do so in the face of any kind of danger, whether it's attacks or standing up to her pack.
Action, romance, emotion....this is a short book, but it packs an incredible wallop! I really, really enjoyed it and am hoping that Katie's writing more of these on the horizon.... *pst- Alaric's brothers maybe??*
A- rating
Ooh, what a fabulous book. Felicia is home after spending two years in Afghanistan as a nurse. Two years ago, she fled from her pack after the alpha pursued her and she turned him down. She's always been rebuffed by her pack. She was abandoned as a pup and nothing that her pack has done over the years has ever helped to improve her self-image.
When Felicia met Alaric, she was only nineteen years old and felt an immediate draw to him, but she never thought she would be worthy of his attention, so she ignored the feelings. What she didn't realize is that they are actually destined mates and he actually felt it too, but he wanted to give her time since she was so young.
Alaric has always known that Felicia was his destined mate, but he didn't realize how bad things were for her within her pack. He's kept tabs on her from afar and has maintained his loyalty to her even though she didn't realize their bond.
There's a lot of emotion to this book. Felicia has taken so many incredibly harsh hits over the years. She has a very vulnerable edge to her. She feels unworthy and pitiful especially in the light of Alaric's overwhelming physical perfection. He handles her with utmost care and it's absolutely gorgeous to watch. This book is called Protector's Mate because that's all Alaric wants to do...protect Felicia from any more harm. How can you not fall in love with a guy like that?
In the midst of all that, there is the action of several attacks against the two of them which are very exciting. While Felicia may have self-doubts, she is definitely a capable warrior and will make an excellent mate/match for Alaric. This girl is tough, which after two years in a war zone, stands to reason. She can stand on her own two feet and isn't afraid to do so in the face of any kind of danger, whether it's attacks or standing up to her pack.
Action, romance, emotion....this is a short book, but it packs an incredible wallop! I really, really enjoyed it and am hoping that Katie's writing more of these on the horizon.... *pst- Alaric's brothers maybe??*
June 6, 2012
Posted on Under the Covers
In PROTECTOR’S MATE, Felicia Serna has returned from a war zone to find that her territory has been taken over by another pack. Normally, this would be enough to cause her werewolf hackles to rise, but there’s something more that sends a shiver through her. The new second-in-command is no other than the man who stars in all her fantasies – sexy, sexy Alaric.
Though this story may be short, it is nothing close to sweet. Reus packs action and red hot heat into this little number. I was thoroughly impressed by Reus’s ability to lure me in from the very first page and keep be entertained all the way thorough.
The chemistry is potent and undeniable from page one and Alaric and Felicia really heat things up quickly. This story was so enjoyable that I had wished it were longer because I wasn’t quite ready to leave Alaric and Felicia once the book was done.
PROTECTOR’S MATE explodes with sexy, devilish fun! Don’t miss out on this treat!
*Review Copy provided by author
In PROTECTOR’S MATE, Felicia Serna has returned from a war zone to find that her territory has been taken over by another pack. Normally, this would be enough to cause her werewolf hackles to rise, but there’s something more that sends a shiver through her. The new second-in-command is no other than the man who stars in all her fantasies – sexy, sexy Alaric.
Though this story may be short, it is nothing close to sweet. Reus packs action and red hot heat into this little number. I was thoroughly impressed by Reus’s ability to lure me in from the very first page and keep be entertained all the way thorough.
The chemistry is potent and undeniable from page one and Alaric and Felicia really heat things up quickly. This story was so enjoyable that I had wished it were longer because I wasn’t quite ready to leave Alaric and Felicia once the book was done.
PROTECTOR’S MATE explodes with sexy, devilish fun! Don’t miss out on this treat!
*Review Copy provided by author
July 27, 2012
This was a fun little short that was very hot. I liked how Alaric knew Felicia was for him, but gave her the space to grow up before he claimed her. I do wish that he would have explained things more to Felicia as it would have made her less secure. I wish that there would have been more with this one.
October 6, 2018
I didn't realize this book was part of a series until after I listened to it. That being said, I really enjoyed the story and would like to go back to read the first book in the series as well. This story is short and takes place over the course of only a couple of days. Felicia and Aleric's (both wolf shifters) ascension to lovers and then mates is very quick, but doesn't seem out of place after learning their backstory. This was a quick listen with a small amount of danger and a couple of steamy sex scenes. The book is HEA and does not have a cliffhanger.
December 1, 2019
Hot sexy well seasoned werewolf meets his barely legal mate. He lets her go and watches over her from afar. Strong female who find creative ways to overcome obstacles that she has faced in her young life. I enjoyed reading about them combining their life and finding their way. I am loving this series as well.
April 26, 2019
No está mal. Justo lo que necesitaba en este momento. Con poca cosa de la que odio en este tipo de género y con final feliz; últimamente no he hecho más que leer libro deprimente tras libro escalofriante tras libro deprimente...
December 6, 2020
hot & steamy, werewolf (shifter) returns from Afghanistan meets hot werewolf, they claim one another
January 3, 2023
3.5 stars.
June 23, 2023
Another great little short story from a great writer. Can read these in a day. Lots of sexy with a bit of danger. Love the way wolves mate. On to the next one!
September 5, 2024
hmmm tbh I don’t really remember much about it but it falls in line with a lot of the other books this author has written! Also it’s a novella so it’s super short, and thus harder to really rate.
March 5, 2017
Alaric knew that Felicia was his mate back when she was 19, but he decided she needed more time before he claimed her. During that wait, she escaped her abusive pack and left the country. He only recently got back in contact with her again. He's really surprised when she suddenly shows up in the US not having told him she was coming, but someone evidently knew because someone is trying to kill her. Alaric will do anything to protect his mate, while working on her trust issues and getting her to believe in him as a mate.
This was pretty good starting out with some great UST between the characters, lots of interrupted sessions and some really sexy scenes together. Both of the characters were really likeable and I enjoyed the short romance. But I couldn't help but feel like I needed an extended ending. I'm never a fan of first times together that aren't face-to-face, mostly because they're so impersonal, even if this did involve a mating. Especially given that she's a virgin. On top of that is the mention of the symbol that we never get to see on Alaric, which I'd have liked to see...did the symbol itself have any significance for Felicia? And why didn't Alaric simply tell her she was his mate after he learned her former alpha hadn't told her?
This was pretty good starting out with some great UST between the characters, lots of interrupted sessions and some really sexy scenes together. Both of the characters were really likeable and I enjoyed the short romance. But I couldn't help but feel like I needed an extended ending. I'm never a fan of first times together that aren't face-to-face, mostly because they're so impersonal, even if this did involve a mating. Especially given that she's a virgin. On top of that is the mention of the symbol that we never get to see on Alaric, which I'd have liked to see...did the symbol itself have any significance for Felicia? And why didn't Alaric simply tell her she was his mate after he learned her former alpha hadn't told her?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2012
Katie Reus never fails to captivate me with her stories and Protector’s Mate is just another title to add to my growing list of favorite reads from this author.
Felicia Serna left her werewolves pack two years ago to escape her deplorable alpha, traveling across the ocean to war-torn Afghanistan as a nurse to help the humans there. Now that Felicia’s contract has ended she has nowhere else to go but back home. Hoping to quickly pick up a few items stashed away at human friend’s before figuring out what she is going to do with the rest of her life, Felicia steps out of the airport only to be waylaid by a big black SUV. Terrified that whoever is behind the wheel has been sent to punish her for abandoning her pack, Felicia is surprised when the sexy wolf, Alaric, her teenage crush steps out.
From the first time Alaric met Felicia him and his wolf knew that she was the one for him, but unlike the wolf inside, Alaric understood that at nineteen Felicia was too young for him to seek a mating with. So using his vast contacts across the world, Alaric has kept a close eye on Felicia for the past two years, making sure that she isn’t in danger. But over the last months that hasn’t been enough so Alaric begins to correspond with Felicia via email, and they’ve been getting flirtier and flirtier. But Felicia still seems oblivious to his feelings towards her so when he finds out through one of his contacts that she is returning home he wastes no time in showing her first hand where he stands.
If Alaric thought that it was going to be easy he couldn’t have been more wrong. Tailed, ambushed and attacked; is it Felicia’s old pack after her for the consequence of her running away or could it be an angry werewolf or vampire set against Alaric's alpha and the coming treaty between races? Or could it be someone neither of them imagined?
Alaric and Felicia were a great couple. Alaric may be a wolf hungering for his mate but he is patient, understanding and absolutely adoring of Felicia. Felicia doesn’t know what a true werewolf pack is like, only having the horrid example of her last adoptive pack to go on. But Alaric is determined to prove that his pack and himself will be there for Felicia to care for and protect her. Felicia was a strong, independent and caring heroine to read about and I feel that Alaric was just the wolf she needed to really see herself and her true worth.
Protector’s Mate was a short, sweet and fun read that I really enjoyed. The novella follows Destined Mate which featured Alaric’s alpha Knox and vampire Angela, but Protector’s Mate is truly a stand-alone and though you catch glimpses from the first novella new readers won’t be able to distinguish them, the plot flows nice and smooth.
Plenty of action and heat with a heart-warming romance, Protector’s Mate is a novella I would recommend for paranormal romance fans looking for a quick fix!
May 25, 2013
Reviewed by: Lori
Book provided by: Publisher
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
This is a stand alone book, but I happened to notice that there are other books associated with this book that are part of a series. The title doesn’t say this is a series, but there is a back listing of books that suggest that the story continues with other books. You don’t need to read the books that come before this one. Things will make sense and you’ll be able to follow the story.
Alaric is a man on a mission and he’s the type of man that will not be denied. He has a lot of confidence, is secure in who he is and has never not felt like he fit in with his pack. He was taught pack ways and is aware of pack traditions and rules. He’s an all around good guy and someone I really liked. Felicia is a woman who is very wary of anyone’s motivations. She learned early on that the only person she can depend upon is herself. The pack that she grewup in barely tolerated her. She didn’t get taught the basic pack lessons that young shifters learn which leaves her at a disadvantage. She doesn’t realize that Alaric is her mate and struggles with what her instincts are telling her and what her head is telling her. She’s vulnerable yet strong and is a women you can’t help but admire in spite of her flaws.
Alaric knows deep into his soul that Felicia is the one for him, but that’s because of his earlier teachings. Alaric was patient with trying to earn Felicia’s trust. He knew he needed to teach her pack ways and help her learn to trust what her inner wolf was telling her. Felicia was scared to believe anyone pack would want to associate with her because of what she went through as a child. It was nice to see Felicia learn to trust herself as well as Alaric throughout the book. Alaric was the rock that Felicia needed and he helped her recognize her feelings and to trust her instincts.
I liked that they both had to compromise and learn how to understand each other’s needs, wants and desires while still being true to themselves. I liked how Felicia grew as a person during the book and knew she needed Alaric in her life and was going to fight for him and not run away. Alaric grew as well because he needed to be there emotionally for the woman who completed him. He allowed himself to be vulnerable to her and to his feelings for her. He really is a sensitive kind of guy, but not a wimp. He called Felicia out on the things she was doing that he didn’t like, but was able to handle Felicia calling out on him as well. You got to love a man like that. If you’re into romance books that deal with shifter characters, then I hope you enjoy this book.
Book provided by: Publisher
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
This is a stand alone book, but I happened to notice that there are other books associated with this book that are part of a series. The title doesn’t say this is a series, but there is a back listing of books that suggest that the story continues with other books. You don’t need to read the books that come before this one. Things will make sense and you’ll be able to follow the story.
Alaric is a man on a mission and he’s the type of man that will not be denied. He has a lot of confidence, is secure in who he is and has never not felt like he fit in with his pack. He was taught pack ways and is aware of pack traditions and rules. He’s an all around good guy and someone I really liked. Felicia is a woman who is very wary of anyone’s motivations. She learned early on that the only person she can depend upon is herself. The pack that she grewup in barely tolerated her. She didn’t get taught the basic pack lessons that young shifters learn which leaves her at a disadvantage. She doesn’t realize that Alaric is her mate and struggles with what her instincts are telling her and what her head is telling her. She’s vulnerable yet strong and is a women you can’t help but admire in spite of her flaws.
Alaric knows deep into his soul that Felicia is the one for him, but that’s because of his earlier teachings. Alaric was patient with trying to earn Felicia’s trust. He knew he needed to teach her pack ways and help her learn to trust what her inner wolf was telling her. Felicia was scared to believe anyone pack would want to associate with her because of what she went through as a child. It was nice to see Felicia learn to trust herself as well as Alaric throughout the book. Alaric was the rock that Felicia needed and he helped her recognize her feelings and to trust her instincts.
I liked that they both had to compromise and learn how to understand each other’s needs, wants and desires while still being true to themselves. I liked how Felicia grew as a person during the book and knew she needed Alaric in her life and was going to fight for him and not run away. Alaric grew as well because he needed to be there emotionally for the woman who completed him. He allowed himself to be vulnerable to her and to his feelings for her. He really is a sensitive kind of guy, but not a wimp. He called Felicia out on the things she was doing that he didn’t like, but was able to handle Felicia calling out on him as well. You got to love a man like that. If you’re into romance books that deal with shifter characters, then I hope you enjoy this book.
September 27, 2012
Setting:
Huntsville, Alabama ; Afghanistan
Theme:
Love; mated love
Character:
Alaric – 500 year old werewolf; honorable; second-in-command to expanding pack; though knows mated to Felicia after meeting her, he leaves her in her pack and later as nurse in Afghanistan to give her time to grow up, though he kept close tabs on her. 6 months back, he initiates contact via email.
Felicia Serna – orphaned; pack left with at best indifferent, at worst derogatory; at 18 meets and starts to fantasize about Alaric from another pack; studies nursing, getting through courses in record time; when her pack leader propositions her (though he is mated), she signs up to nurse in Afghanistan. Enjoyed emails from Alaric, but scared when he starts online flirting; served two years, and returns home (few human friends) to be a lone wolf.
Knox – pack alpha that took over her packs territory… has vampire mate, which is controversy.
Summary:
Alaric meets Felicia at the airport – being a man/werewolf he doesn’t explain himself, just insists he’s taking her home – he’s gotten a few days off to be with her… they are followed, Alaric faces off with them… then takes Felicia to a safe house. At the safe house, there is some kissing… then some touching… and some heavy breathing… but not a lot of talking… then the 2 weres show up again, he confronts them, Felicia takes a gun and shoots one before he can attack Alaric…
Alaric leaves Felicia in his rooms at the pack compound, and goes after the one who sent the wolves (the past pack alpha’s mate) and makes arrangement to move her to Texas… She thinks that he is going to mate the last alpha’s mate, and just use her for some sex (after all she’s not been valued by last pack)… we think she’s going to leave… and when Alaric returns to his room she isn’t there – but walks in from the balcony – she decided she’s staying and fighting for him… and he finally finds the words to tell her he loves her, that he has felt mated to her since they met 5 years earlier … ahhh
Memorable scenes:
Huntsville, Alabama ; Afghanistan
Theme:
Love; mated love
Character:
Alaric – 500 year old werewolf; honorable; second-in-command to expanding pack; though knows mated to Felicia after meeting her, he leaves her in her pack and later as nurse in Afghanistan to give her time to grow up, though he kept close tabs on her. 6 months back, he initiates contact via email.
Felicia Serna – orphaned; pack left with at best indifferent, at worst derogatory; at 18 meets and starts to fantasize about Alaric from another pack; studies nursing, getting through courses in record time; when her pack leader propositions her (though he is mated), she signs up to nurse in Afghanistan. Enjoyed emails from Alaric, but scared when he starts online flirting; served two years, and returns home (few human friends) to be a lone wolf.
Knox – pack alpha that took over her packs territory… has vampire mate, which is controversy.
Summary:
Alaric meets Felicia at the airport – being a man/werewolf he doesn’t explain himself, just insists he’s taking her home – he’s gotten a few days off to be with her… they are followed, Alaric faces off with them… then takes Felicia to a safe house. At the safe house, there is some kissing… then some touching… and some heavy breathing… but not a lot of talking… then the 2 weres show up again, he confronts them, Felicia takes a gun and shoots one before he can attack Alaric…
Alaric leaves Felicia in his rooms at the pack compound, and goes after the one who sent the wolves (the past pack alpha’s mate) and makes arrangement to move her to Texas… She thinks that he is going to mate the last alpha’s mate, and just use her for some sex (after all she’s not been valued by last pack)… we think she’s going to leave… and when Alaric returns to his room she isn’t there – but walks in from the balcony – she decided she’s staying and fighting for him… and he finally finds the words to tell her he loves her, that he has felt mated to her since they met 5 years earlier … ahhh
Memorable scenes:
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 22, 2012
I've blogged before about Katie Reus, and how much I love her books.
Protector's Mate, which is a Nocturne Craving's short takes us back into her world of shifters.
Felicia Serna, a small wolf shifter, had fled her adopted shifter territory to become a nurse in a war zone...it was the only way she could escape the nastiness and abuse that was heaped on her not only from the rest of the pack, but from the Alpha himself. While overseas for two years, Felicia was startled then secretly thrilled when she started to get letters from another pack's second she'd met years earlier, Alaric. When she decides to come back to the states, she's unsure whether Alaric would even want to know...so she's floored when he not only shows up at the airport to pick her up, but informs her that his pack Alpha has taken over her former pack's territory, and her former Alpha is now dead.
It isn't long, though, before Felicia's life is in jeopardy, and Alaric will put it all on the line to protect the woman he's known is his mate since she was just a teen...
This story was great ~ I loved that Alaric knew that Felicia was his mate so many years ago, and that he respected her enough and was secure in himself enough to give her time to grow and mature...even though had he known what she was really facing w/ her pack, he'd have had his Alpha take her in. I loved the tension and build up to the sex and claiming...no spoilers, but there WAS build up, and it was sexy and luring Felicia into falling for Alaric as hard as he'd fallen for her.
I felt like Felicia was being a little hard headed about seeing the forest for the trees in some aspects, but I liked her as a heroine, and loved Alaric...and found the pack dynamics interesting and something I'd love to see delved into in a longer story.
VERY satisfying read for what was clasified as a novella, and I want MORE!
Protector's Mate, which is a Nocturne Craving's short takes us back into her world of shifters.
Felicia Serna, a small wolf shifter, had fled her adopted shifter territory to become a nurse in a war zone...it was the only way she could escape the nastiness and abuse that was heaped on her not only from the rest of the pack, but from the Alpha himself. While overseas for two years, Felicia was startled then secretly thrilled when she started to get letters from another pack's second she'd met years earlier, Alaric. When she decides to come back to the states, she's unsure whether Alaric would even want to know...so she's floored when he not only shows up at the airport to pick her up, but informs her that his pack Alpha has taken over her former pack's territory, and her former Alpha is now dead.
It isn't long, though, before Felicia's life is in jeopardy, and Alaric will put it all on the line to protect the woman he's known is his mate since she was just a teen...
This story was great ~ I loved that Alaric knew that Felicia was his mate so many years ago, and that he respected her enough and was secure in himself enough to give her time to grow and mature...even though had he known what she was really facing w/ her pack, he'd have had his Alpha take her in. I loved the tension and build up to the sex and claiming...no spoilers, but there WAS build up, and it was sexy and luring Felicia into falling for Alaric as hard as he'd fallen for her.
I felt like Felicia was being a little hard headed about seeing the forest for the trees in some aspects, but I liked her as a heroine, and loved Alaric...and found the pack dynamics interesting and something I'd love to see delved into in a longer story.
VERY satisfying read for what was clasified as a novella, and I want MORE!
April 24, 2012
PROTECTOR’S MATE by Katie Reus
Protector’s Mate is the second novel in Katie Reus Nocturne Craving series of paranormal stories. Following shortly after the events in Destined Mate, Protector’s Mate follows shifter wolf Alaric and his soon to be mate Felicia, as they are followed by a trio of wolves hoping to stop their reunion.
Felicia Serna is a lone wolf who was abandoned by her family as a pup, and with no apparent pack to call her own, she enlisted for a tour of duty in Afghanistan. Five years later, she has never forgotten the man, who called to the wolf within.
Alaric is over 500 years old, second-in-command to Knox’s Alpha, and all male. But five years was too long to wait to claim his mate. The wolf within needed to know his female was safe, and he took it upon himself to ensure that her whereabouts were known all the times. With a few well-place emails Alaric was soon ‘talking’ with the woman who was his to claim.
When Felicia finally landed on home soil, it wasn’t only Alaric hoping to ‘capture’ the beauty. Needing to find a ‘safe house’, the couple must abandon their ride, and spend the night together. But it is the wolf within Alaric that is consumed with protecting his mate, and when the couple is threatened by wolves with another agenda Alaric calls in his family, to help defend and protect.
Protector’s Mate is a quick and easy read. And like Destined Mate, the novel is fast paced and moves quickly to the heart of the storyline. Katie has written these novellas as stand-alone paranormal stories, but so far I am enjoying the ‘serial ‘ style to the books. I hope she continues this particular line because the couples thus far, have been enjoyable and I want to know more about the American Pack and their adventures.
see all of my reviews at : thereadincafe.com
Protector’s Mate is the second novel in Katie Reus Nocturne Craving series of paranormal stories. Following shortly after the events in Destined Mate, Protector’s Mate follows shifter wolf Alaric and his soon to be mate Felicia, as they are followed by a trio of wolves hoping to stop their reunion.
Felicia Serna is a lone wolf who was abandoned by her family as a pup, and with no apparent pack to call her own, she enlisted for a tour of duty in Afghanistan. Five years later, she has never forgotten the man, who called to the wolf within.
Alaric is over 500 years old, second-in-command to Knox’s Alpha, and all male. But five years was too long to wait to claim his mate. The wolf within needed to know his female was safe, and he took it upon himself to ensure that her whereabouts were known all the times. With a few well-place emails Alaric was soon ‘talking’ with the woman who was his to claim.
When Felicia finally landed on home soil, it wasn’t only Alaric hoping to ‘capture’ the beauty. Needing to find a ‘safe house’, the couple must abandon their ride, and spend the night together. But it is the wolf within Alaric that is consumed with protecting his mate, and when the couple is threatened by wolves with another agenda Alaric calls in his family, to help defend and protect.
Protector’s Mate is a quick and easy read. And like Destined Mate, the novel is fast paced and moves quickly to the heart of the storyline. Katie has written these novellas as stand-alone paranormal stories, but so far I am enjoying the ‘serial ‘ style to the books. I hope she continues this particular line because the couples thus far, have been enjoyable and I want to know more about the American Pack and their adventures.
see all of my reviews at : thereadincafe.com
August 31, 2014
"Protector's Mate" by Katie Reus. A paranormal romance novella.
Short, sweet and to the point. This novella was so good! This novella reads as a stand alone but the main character of Alaric was introduced in the previous novella "Destined Mate". It's OK if you didn't read that one first because enough information is given in this one that you, the reader, will know exactly what is going on.
Felicia is coming back to Alabama after working as a nurse in Afghanastan for the last two years. No one is supposed to know that she's home but when she leaves the airport, Alaric is waiting for her. She only met him once when she was 19 years old and she had an instant crush on him. But now that she's older, is she still crushing on him even though she hasn't seen him in 5 years? He's been flirting with her in emails the last couple of months but there's no way he could be serious. Right?
Alaric has been waiting what feels like forever for Felicia to come home. When he met her 5 years ago, he knew instantly that she was his mate. But she was way to young at the time for him to act on him primal feelings towards her. Now that she's back, he has some explaining to do. His Alpha has taken over her pack's territory and nothing is going to stop him from being with her. Especially not the people who are trying to kill them....
Such a great story. Felicia's insecurities about herself from a sad past with her pack are really heartbreaking. And Alaric love for her is so strong. The chemistry between the two is smoking hot! This novella is the perfect romance hit when you're craving something steamy. I will definitely be reading the next one.
Short, sweet and to the point. This novella was so good! This novella reads as a stand alone but the main character of Alaric was introduced in the previous novella "Destined Mate". It's OK if you didn't read that one first because enough information is given in this one that you, the reader, will know exactly what is going on.
Felicia is coming back to Alabama after working as a nurse in Afghanastan for the last two years. No one is supposed to know that she's home but when she leaves the airport, Alaric is waiting for her. She only met him once when she was 19 years old and she had an instant crush on him. But now that she's older, is she still crushing on him even though she hasn't seen him in 5 years? He's been flirting with her in emails the last couple of months but there's no way he could be serious. Right?
Alaric has been waiting what feels like forever for Felicia to come home. When he met her 5 years ago, he knew instantly that she was his mate. But she was way to young at the time for him to act on him primal feelings towards her. Now that she's back, he has some explaining to do. His Alpha has taken over her pack's territory and nothing is going to stop him from being with her. Especially not the people who are trying to kill them....
Such a great story. Felicia's insecurities about herself from a sad past with her pack are really heartbreaking. And Alaric love for her is so strong. The chemistry between the two is smoking hot! This novella is the perfect romance hit when you're craving something steamy. I will definitely be reading the next one.
May 1, 2012
I have mixed feelings about this book. On the pro side, I loved the romance. Felicia was a heroine that was easy to like and relate to. Because of her past, she has a lot of insecurities and fears yet she still left everything she knew to go to Afghanistan and help others. When she comes back and everything goes crazy, she tries not to let those insecurities impact the present.
Alaric was equally great. He had known for years that Felicia was his mate but he also knew she was too young so he stepped back and watched her live her life without interference from him. The love scenes are both steamy and sweet. Alaric takes the time to earn Felicia’s trust and to make sure she knows how much he needs her. I adored these two together and I believed in their HEA.
On the con side is the suspense aspect. I didn’t get it. Heroine in danger and hero forced to protect her is a storyline I love and it worked in the beginning. However, after everything was revealed I felt lost. I went back and reread that scene but I still don’t understand what the motivation was behind the stalking and what it was supposed to accomplish. That took a little of the shine off of what was otherwise a really good book.
That being said, I’m glad I read it and I’m looking forward to reading more about this pack. Katie Reus has a knack for writing a romance that I can become invested in.
Alaric was equally great. He had known for years that Felicia was his mate but he also knew she was too young so he stepped back and watched her live her life without interference from him. The love scenes are both steamy and sweet. Alaric takes the time to earn Felicia’s trust and to make sure she knows how much he needs her. I adored these two together and I believed in their HEA.
On the con side is the suspense aspect. I didn’t get it. Heroine in danger and hero forced to protect her is a storyline I love and it worked in the beginning. However, after everything was revealed I felt lost. I went back and reread that scene but I still don’t understand what the motivation was behind the stalking and what it was supposed to accomplish. That took a little of the shine off of what was otherwise a really good book.
That being said, I’m glad I read it and I’m looking forward to reading more about this pack. Katie Reus has a knack for writing a romance that I can become invested in.
March 17, 2012
This was a short, quick and sweet novella. I really enjoyed it. I don't think I have read too many novellas before, but I enjoyed it a lot! The characters were amazing Alaric and Felicia were amazing characters and I really appreciated there characters. And this book was written about my hometown!!! Where I freakin live!!! That is hilarious :) I have never read a book before based in my hometown. Around my hometown, yes, but not in it! COOL :D!
Back to the story... It had some very heated scenes and I love the fact that it was shifter. And I loved the story line, but I wish it was longer and more in depth. I know it's a novella and all but I am not happy about this miniature read and I am still craving for more. Overall, it was a wonderful, quick and refreshing read, which I have had one of those in a while. I read this in like 30 minutes and it was a wonderful 30 minutes and I enjoyed every minute! I recommend it and it's definitely for people 18+.
Back to the story... It had some very heated scenes and I love the fact that it was shifter. And I loved the story line, but I wish it was longer and more in depth. I know it's a novella and all but I am not happy about this miniature read and I am still craving for more. Overall, it was a wonderful, quick and refreshing read, which I have had one of those in a while. I read this in like 30 minutes and it was a wonderful 30 minutes and I enjoyed every minute! I recommend it and it's definitely for people 18+.
April 29, 2012
Protector’s Mate is Katie Reus’ follow up book to Destined Mates. While this is not a series, both books are set in the same world. In Proctor’s Mate we get to know Alaric, who is Knox’s (from Destined Mate) second in command, better.
Alaric has waited patiently for the woman who will become his mate. But when someone trys to kill her Alaric will do everything he can to protect her. Alaric is a total bad-ass type of guy. But he is also very sweet and loving towards Felicia. While Felicia is unsure and stubborn, but learns very quickly not everyone dislikes her as she was lead to believe for so long.
I enjoyed this story. It was a little short, but that is what happens with a novella. I would love for Katie to for a follow up story on these two. Huge thank you to Katie for allowing me to read and review this book for her.
Alaric has waited patiently for the woman who will become his mate. But when someone trys to kill her Alaric will do everything he can to protect her. Alaric is a total bad-ass type of guy. But he is also very sweet and loving towards Felicia. While Felicia is unsure and stubborn, but learns very quickly not everyone dislikes her as she was lead to believe for so long.
I enjoyed this story. It was a little short, but that is what happens with a novella. I would love for Katie to for a follow up story on these two. Huge thank you to Katie for allowing me to read and review this book for her.
April 1, 2012
This is the first book by Katie Reus that I have read and it definately won't be the last!
I read this book in two goes today because I got caught up in the story and didn't want to stop. It's quite short but packs in a lot. Alaric and Felicia have a great story , the background to their meeting again is given in more than enough detail to bring us up to date and from then on it's action and scorching love scenes right through. I loved Alaric , a gorgeous protective alpha and Felicia was a good match for him.
This is the second book but worked on it's own with past details explained clearly. I shall be getting the first book Destined Mate as I enjoyed this one very much.
I read this book in two goes today because I got caught up in the story and didn't want to stop. It's quite short but packs in a lot. Alaric and Felicia have a great story , the background to their meeting again is given in more than enough detail to bring us up to date and from then on it's action and scorching love scenes right through. I loved Alaric , a gorgeous protective alpha and Felicia was a good match for him.
This is the second book but worked on it's own with past details explained clearly. I shall be getting the first book Destined Mate as I enjoyed this one very much.
December 11, 2015
Loved!!!
Ooh Alaric and Felicia....I just loved how the girl finally got her teenage crush without knowing that the boy was crushing on her as well but being the gentleman that he is....he wanted her to spread her wings and see the world before he told her that he wanted her as his mate.
Love the action, the romance and the paranormal and the way Alaric was looking out for Felicia despite the distance was so sweet....The overwhelming feeling of love that Felicia felt when she learned that Alaric wanted her from the moment he met her as a teenage was done perfectly.
Ooh Alaric and Felicia....I just loved how the girl finally got her teenage crush without knowing that the boy was crushing on her as well but being the gentleman that he is....he wanted her to spread her wings and see the world before he told her that he wanted her as his mate.
Love the action, the romance and the paranormal and the way Alaric was looking out for Felicia despite the distance was so sweet....The overwhelming feeling of love that Felicia felt when she learned that Alaric wanted her from the moment he met her as a teenage was done perfectly.
April 3, 2012
PROTECTOR'S MATE continues in the same world as DESTINED MATE. Katie's Novella's are short and to the point but still full of character development and steamy romance. I never felt as though I was missing something or that a scene was rushed. Even with everything else going on we still get a great action scene thrown in. Alaric and Felicia had amazing chemistry and I enjoyed reading their mating story. I cant wait to see who Katie writes about next.
September 17, 2012
I just love Katie Reus' writing and this novella was another great shifter story of hers. I love the whole mating idea that one person (or werewolf) is intended for another. While it is sensual it isn't erotic. It might appear that way in the cover, but I don't read erotic romance and felt this one was romantic and sensual and went along with the storyline very well. I highly recommend Katie's books both paranormal and romantic suspense!
April 6, 2012
Tantalizing idea. I really enjoyed the excerpt I had read but I wanted more worldbuilding and history. I got to see glimpses of why the heroine is how she is but it seemed like there was a lot left out. I also thought the answer behind who tried to kill the heroine was a bit too simplistic. I guess I feel let down because I liked the excerpt so much.
June 21, 2012
Much better than the others I read in this line from HQ. it was still probably 60/40 sex to story ratio but I didn't feel quite as much that the story got the short straw. We had werewolves primarily with a few vampire mentions in there too.
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