What do you think?
Rate this book
de La Vega Cats #3
Beneath the Skin
A whole world exists…beneath the skin.
De La Vega Cats, Book 3
Gibson de La Vega is the Bringer, one of the Alpha’s right-hand cats. It is his job to mete out justice and defend the law that holds their jamboree together.
After a contentious meeting with another jamboree, he’s shot—Mia stumbles onto the scene and saves his life. He’s immediately drawn to the female who dug three silver bullets from his body. Even after he discovers she’s a Porter, a family his own harmed grievously half a century before.
Mia has enough in her life. She’s recovering from a vicious hate crime—an attack using silver has affected her ability to do what she loves most. The last thing she needs is a bossy alpha cat like Gibson. A de La Vega no less.
Despite the myriad reasons to stay away, even as they continue to hunt down the would-be killers, their attraction deepens into something else entirely.
The answers they find bring that threat far closer to home than anyone could have imagined and it’ll be up to Gibson to end the mess once and for all. And up to Mia to stand at his side, even as he risks his life…
Warning: A super hot alpha male with a gruff façade, and an uppity female who’s not buying it. Some violence. Some red-hot sex. Bad words. Lots of fun.
De La Vega Cats, Book 3
Gibson de La Vega is the Bringer, one of the Alpha’s right-hand cats. It is his job to mete out justice and defend the law that holds their jamboree together.
After a contentious meeting with another jamboree, he’s shot—Mia stumbles onto the scene and saves his life. He’s immediately drawn to the female who dug three silver bullets from his body. Even after he discovers she’s a Porter, a family his own harmed grievously half a century before.
Mia has enough in her life. She’s recovering from a vicious hate crime—an attack using silver has affected her ability to do what she loves most. The last thing she needs is a bossy alpha cat like Gibson. A de La Vega no less.
Despite the myriad reasons to stay away, even as they continue to hunt down the would-be killers, their attraction deepens into something else entirely.
The answers they find bring that threat far closer to home than anyone could have imagined and it’ll be up to Gibson to end the mess once and for all. And up to Mia to stand at his side, even as he risks his life…
Warning: A super hot alpha male with a gruff façade, and an uppity female who’s not buying it. Some violence. Some red-hot sex. Bad words. Lots of fun.
211 pages, Paperback
First published April 3, 2012
76 people are currently reading
1140 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Dane
112 books4,996 followersLauren Dane has been writing stories since she was able to use a pencil, and before that she used to tell them to people. Of course, she still talks nonstop, and through wonderful fate and good fortune, she’s now able to share what she writes with others. It’s a wonderful life!
The basics: Lauren is a mom, a partner, a best friend and a daughter. Living in the rainy but beautiful Pacific Northwest, she spends her late evenings writing like a fiend when she finally wrestles all of her kids to bed.
The basics: Lauren is a mom, a partner, a best friend and a daughter. Living in the rainy but beautiful Pacific Northwest, she spends her late evenings writing like a fiend when she finally wrestles all of her kids to bed.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
January 4, 2015
A satisfying end to this trilogy. Gibson is one of the brothers who I liked. As the Bringer (what a sexy title) he brings justice. When he's targeted, he's pissed. When an innocent woman is dragged into this mess and she's being shot at, he's furious. Then he imprints on her and the wrath of angry alpha jaguar is going to destroy these puny aggressors. That's basically the story in a nutshell.
The sex is good. It's a bit rougher vanilla so it kept my attention a little. Mia the spitfire female jaguar is pretty cool. Her set back from several unprovoked attacks was disheartening. Still, she can kick butt and that's all that matters.
What I learned from this story is that cowards can be inept at planning and stupid in their aggressions. If you're going to take out a powerful rival, do your homework and have contingencies. Gibson easily rips this jokers apart because they are idiots. Now that's not to say I'm rooting for the idiots. I'm disgusted with their lazy hateful asses. They got what they deserved. It would be nice to read more about the other siblings in the de la Vega cats but I don't think Ms. Dane is returning to this world. What a shame. Because the baby brother is quiet one and you know what they say about the quiet ones... they are kinky fuckers.
The sex is good. It's a bit rougher vanilla so it kept my attention a little. Mia the spitfire female jaguar is pretty cool. Her set back from several unprovoked attacks was disheartening. Still, she can kick butt and that's all that matters.
What I learned from this story is that cowards can be inept at planning and stupid in their aggressions. If you're going to take out a powerful rival, do your homework and have contingencies. Gibson easily rips this jokers apart because they are idiots. Now that's not to say I'm rooting for the idiots. I'm disgusted with their lazy hateful asses. They got what they deserved. It would be nice to read more about the other siblings in the de la Vega cats but I don't think Ms. Dane is returning to this world. What a shame. Because the baby brother is quiet one and you know what they say about the quiet ones... they are kinky fuckers.
October 29, 2017
Review For: Beneath the Skin by Lauren Dane Beneath the Skin by Lauren Dane is book Three in the "de La Vega Cats" series. Is the story of Gibson de La Vega and Mia Porter. Gibson is shot three times with silver bullets but is found by Mia who saves his life. They are both attracted to the other but they soon learn their family are enemies. Both know that it is wrong to want the other but they can't help it. They both are trying to keep their family safe. But they can't fight their feelings for long. https://twitter.com/soapsrus68 https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR... https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
April 14, 2012
Lauren Dane and her books hold such a special place in my reading heart because she has helped to open up my opinions about what kinds of romance books I read. She was really my gateway to some of the very smexy books and authors that I now read. Because of this, my reviews of her books may be a little bias but I don’t care because I love her very much.
Beneath the Skin was another great read from Ms. Dane and her paranormal romances. Mia was an amazing heroine. She was a fighter, had great strength both physically and mentally, and was extremely open about who she was and what she wanted from life. Gideon was almost exactly what you would expect from a male cat-shifter, dominate and a little hard headed. But what made him different was his acceptance of Mia’s strength. He supports her and doesn’t just try to put her in a box to protect her. I really love that aspect of Ms. Dane and her characters. She allows the strength of her heroines to shine through and to not be muted but the alpha-ness of her heros. This made for another great read with lots of action and lots of hot and spicy sexy-times. Another great read from Ms. Dane and I can’t wait until her next book, de la Vega cat or other.
Beneath the Skin was another great read from Ms. Dane and her paranormal romances. Mia was an amazing heroine. She was a fighter, had great strength both physically and mentally, and was extremely open about who she was and what she wanted from life. Gideon was almost exactly what you would expect from a male cat-shifter, dominate and a little hard headed. But what made him different was his acceptance of Mia’s strength. He supports her and doesn’t just try to put her in a box to protect her. I really love that aspect of Ms. Dane and her characters. She allows the strength of her heroines to shine through and to not be muted but the alpha-ness of her heros. This made for another great read with lots of action and lots of hot and spicy sexy-times. Another great read from Ms. Dane and I can’t wait until her next book, de la Vega cat or other.
May 31, 2020
First, a note about the cover: Gibson is black. This series was re-issued with new covers in 2017. I’m disappointed that Carina Press opted to put a white model on the cover. Since the original cover AND the cover of Trinity features a black model, we know it’s possible.
Second, a note about reading order: After listening to Beneath the Skin – it’s obvious that some of the story line from Trinity & Revelation about mages/magick continues in some other books. Unfortunately, I didn’t check Dane’s website for a reading order and missed that Heart of Darkness and Chaos Burning (from her Bound By Magick series) chronologically take place between Revelation & Beneath the Skin. Honestly, that whole story arc is barely mentioned and while the other books don’t stand alone, this one probably could.
This is my favorite of the series. I think partially because the balance of relationship to action/mystery/suspense is more enjoyable. More than that, Gibson and Mia are both strong characters – physically & emotionally. They are an equal match and it’s fun to listen to them get together, discover that they both want more, and work together to solve & defeat those who attacked them.
The ending was a little abrupt, especially for being the final book in a series – but overall it’s a great listen.
Narration:
I really enjoyed Tanya Eby’s narration. There are a lot of characters of various sex, age, and background. She does a great job of giving them all unique voices/sounds.
Second, a note about reading order: After listening to Beneath the Skin – it’s obvious that some of the story line from Trinity & Revelation about mages/magick continues in some other books. Unfortunately, I didn’t check Dane’s website for a reading order and missed that Heart of Darkness and Chaos Burning (from her Bound By Magick series) chronologically take place between Revelation & Beneath the Skin. Honestly, that whole story arc is barely mentioned and while the other books don’t stand alone, this one probably could.
This is my favorite of the series. I think partially because the balance of relationship to action/mystery/suspense is more enjoyable. More than that, Gibson and Mia are both strong characters – physically & emotionally. They are an equal match and it’s fun to listen to them get together, discover that they both want more, and work together to solve & defeat those who attacked them.
The ending was a little abrupt, especially for being the final book in a series – but overall it’s a great listen.
Narration:
I really enjoyed Tanya Eby’s narration. There are a lot of characters of various sex, age, and background. She does a great job of giving them all unique voices/sounds.
April 5, 2012
Raven's review posted on Guilty Pleasures
4.5 Stars and Creme de la Creme
I was captivated by Beneath the Skin, the third book in the de la Vega Cats series, by Lauren Dane. I have felt this way since the beginning of the series. Both Trinity (book #1) and Revelation (book #2) pulled me in and left me wanting more. Beneath the Skin has done the same.
In both books readers got a glimpse of Gibson de la Vega, Bringer of the jaguar jamboree. Now his life is brought into focus in Beneath the Skin. He is one hundred percent Alpha male. He’s dedicated to his family, job, and the jamboree. He carries himself with strength, intelligence and honor. He seems very serious and rather bossy. However, there is a humorous side to him. A vulnerable side as well.
Gibson meets his match in kick ass military vet, Mia Porter. She survived two tours of duty only to be injured in a hate crime back in the States. Mia is home recovering when stumbles across Gibson after an attempt has been made on his life. It is not in her nature to turn a blind eye to someone in danger. The attacks aren’t the only thing Gibson and Mia have in common. They share many of the same qualities and values. She is honorable, loyal, and guarded since her attack. She is as dedicated to her family as Gibson is to his. But, the de la Vega family and the Porter family have a complicated past. It takes these two strong willed people to recognize their feelings (beyond the intense chemistry) for each other, mend the past and fight against outside forces that want them dead.
Lauren Dane did an amazing job weaving the sexy love story of Gibson and Mia while continuing the social unrest of the Were World that began in the first two book of the series. She used the right amount of humor in this story. It was very subtle and not at all forced. Lauren has the awesome ability to revisit past characters of the series in very organic way. We’re allowed to catch up with them without having their appearance over power the focus of the story. She is one of the few authors who weaves them into the story seamlessly. I love Beneath the Skin!! The de la Vega Cat series is one of my favorites and definitely a reread. I hope there is another story in the works. The youngest de la Vega brother deserves a HEA!! ;)
4.5 Stars and Creme de la Creme
I was captivated by Beneath the Skin, the third book in the de la Vega Cats series, by Lauren Dane. I have felt this way since the beginning of the series. Both Trinity (book #1) and Revelation (book #2) pulled me in and left me wanting more. Beneath the Skin has done the same.
In both books readers got a glimpse of Gibson de la Vega, Bringer of the jaguar jamboree. Now his life is brought into focus in Beneath the Skin. He is one hundred percent Alpha male. He’s dedicated to his family, job, and the jamboree. He carries himself with strength, intelligence and honor. He seems very serious and rather bossy. However, there is a humorous side to him. A vulnerable side as well.
Gibson meets his match in kick ass military vet, Mia Porter. She survived two tours of duty only to be injured in a hate crime back in the States. Mia is home recovering when stumbles across Gibson after an attempt has been made on his life. It is not in her nature to turn a blind eye to someone in danger. The attacks aren’t the only thing Gibson and Mia have in common. They share many of the same qualities and values. She is honorable, loyal, and guarded since her attack. She is as dedicated to her family as Gibson is to his. But, the de la Vega family and the Porter family have a complicated past. It takes these two strong willed people to recognize their feelings (beyond the intense chemistry) for each other, mend the past and fight against outside forces that want them dead.
Lauren Dane did an amazing job weaving the sexy love story of Gibson and Mia while continuing the social unrest of the Were World that began in the first two book of the series. She used the right amount of humor in this story. It was very subtle and not at all forced. Lauren has the awesome ability to revisit past characters of the series in very organic way. We’re allowed to catch up with them without having their appearance over power the focus of the story. She is one of the few authors who weaves them into the story seamlessly. I love Beneath the Skin!! The de la Vega Cat series is one of my favorites and definitely a reread. I hope there is another story in the works. The youngest de la Vega brother deserves a HEA!! ;)
April 3, 2012
This review was posted at Under the Covers
Heeeeellloooooooooo sexy! Gibson De La Vega is the Bringer of the De La Vega jamboree. Basically he is in charge of justice and protecting his cats. When is faced with a rogue group of cats that entered the territory without permission and he sends them packing, he is attacked and shot at with silver bullets.
Mia Porter just happens to be around when he gets shot and she feels compelled to help him and save his life. Even though she didn’t know who he was. Of course that doesn’t make things easier once she finds out. The Porter and De La Vega family have old beef with each other. They are NOT friends.
Now Mia’s life is also in danger for helping him and he feels an overpowering need to protect her. She tough, ex military, and very much a kick ass heroine. She was attacked by shifter-hater group and is still recovering from her injuries, and may not ever completely heal, but she is still pushing through. When confronted with yet another group after her, no matter that it’s because of a De La Vega, she wants to help.
Gibson is deliciously protective, sexy as sin, with his dreadlocks, nipple rings, tats, and oh my! Wicked! He wasn’t looking to imprint but their relationship just happened so naturally that it was the only thing that made sense. No matter that their families kind of hated each other. No matter that she is not a female he can leave home away from danger. He respects her and lets her do her job. And she in turn does that same for him.
Cade from Cascadia has a little cameo appearance in this book which was nice. Renee, Jack and Galen are also an important part of this book, since Gibson is very involved with his family. As far as conflict goes, there wasn’t a whole lot of action, but the story was still interesting with an unexpected twist at the end. Very much an enjoyable and sexy read.
*ARC provided by publisher
Heeeeellloooooooooo sexy! Gibson De La Vega is the Bringer of the De La Vega jamboree. Basically he is in charge of justice and protecting his cats. When is faced with a rogue group of cats that entered the territory without permission and he sends them packing, he is attacked and shot at with silver bullets.
Mia Porter just happens to be around when he gets shot and she feels compelled to help him and save his life. Even though she didn’t know who he was. Of course that doesn’t make things easier once she finds out. The Porter and De La Vega family have old beef with each other. They are NOT friends.
Now Mia’s life is also in danger for helping him and he feels an overpowering need to protect her. She tough, ex military, and very much a kick ass heroine. She was attacked by shifter-hater group and is still recovering from her injuries, and may not ever completely heal, but she is still pushing through. When confronted with yet another group after her, no matter that it’s because of a De La Vega, she wants to help.
Gibson is deliciously protective, sexy as sin, with his dreadlocks, nipple rings, tats, and oh my! Wicked! He wasn’t looking to imprint but their relationship just happened so naturally that it was the only thing that made sense. No matter that their families kind of hated each other. No matter that she is not a female he can leave home away from danger. He respects her and lets her do her job. And she in turn does that same for him.
Cade from Cascadia has a little cameo appearance in this book which was nice. Renee, Jack and Galen are also an important part of this book, since Gibson is very involved with his family. As far as conflict goes, there wasn’t a whole lot of action, but the story was still interesting with an unexpected twist at the end. Very much an enjoyable and sexy read.
*ARC provided by publisher
February 1, 2014
Book 3 of the de las Vega series: Gibson and Mia's story.
I reallyy liked Mia, she is a strong woman recovering from a vicous hate crime. She was such a wonderful strong character. Funny, flirty, sexy, yet if you piss her off or threathen someone she cares about the claws come out.
Gibson's position is justice for his jamboree and sometimes that can be a bit harder than expected. We find out he had to challenge to the death for the position from his Uncle. Then in the last book his brother was executed for treason. So he has know loss and its only that much harder when its family.
Anyway to the story. Starts off with 10 cats from another pack show up in de la Vega's territory without premission. After being sent home Gibson is shot. Lucky for him Mia Porter was there to help him. After digging silver bullets out of his hide he heals rather quickly. He is grateful for her help until he learns her last name is Porter. Apperantly there is some issues between the Porters and de la Vega's.
Following she is soon shot at her shop and then later attacked while on a run.
Any hoo they do grow closer and closer. The danger still looms and they have to figure out how and how to stop them.
There is more I can say but thats all the time I have at the moment.
I reallyy liked Mia, she is a strong woman recovering from a vicous hate crime. She was such a wonderful strong character. Funny, flirty, sexy, yet if you piss her off or threathen someone she cares about the claws come out.
Gibson's position is justice for his jamboree and sometimes that can be a bit harder than expected. We find out he had to challenge to the death for the position from his Uncle. Then in the last book his brother was executed for treason. So he has know loss and its only that much harder when its family.
Anyway to the story. Starts off with 10 cats from another pack show up in de la Vega's territory without premission. After being sent home Gibson is shot. Lucky for him Mia Porter was there to help him. After digging silver bullets out of his hide he heals rather quickly. He is grateful for her help until he learns her last name is Porter. Apperantly there is some issues between the Porters and de la Vega's.
Following she is soon shot at her shop and then later attacked while on a run.
Any hoo they do grow closer and closer. The danger still looms and they have to figure out how and how to stop them.
There is more I can say but thats all the time I have at the moment.
December 28, 2013
Mia Porter is back at home recovering from a hate attack and trying to figure out the next path her life will lead, when she scents someone bleeding. Seeing another shifter who had been shot three times with silver, Mia has no choice but to help them and remove the bullets. When she finds out it is a de La Vega though, she is not sure she wants to rekindle any friendship between the Porter's and them. A longtime family grudge has not softened as the years have past, but she reminds herself she would do this for anyone, even a de La Vega.
Gibson de La Vega knew there was trouble brewing, he did not plan to be shot at though and has to look at the upside with the beauty before him who saved his life. Gibson is intrigued by the no frills Mia, until he finds out she is a Porter and is not sure what to do with that knowledge. As it becomes apparent she has made herself a target by helping him, Gibson finds himself becoming more attached to Mia and old grudges aside he is ready to mend some fences in order to continue to be by Mia's side.
Full review on Sensual Reads
http://sensualreads.com/?p=9328
Gibson de La Vega knew there was trouble brewing, he did not plan to be shot at though and has to look at the upside with the beauty before him who saved his life. Gibson is intrigued by the no frills Mia, until he finds out she is a Porter and is not sure what to do with that knowledge. As it becomes apparent she has made herself a target by helping him, Gibson finds himself becoming more attached to Mia and old grudges aside he is ready to mend some fences in order to continue to be by Mia's side.
Full review on Sensual Reads
http://sensualreads.com/?p=9328
January 1, 2013
What it's about: This is the third book in the de La Vega Cats series by Lauren Dane and was previously available only as an e-book. Beneath the Skin is about Gibson, or the Bringer. Gibson is the Alpha's right-hand man. He metes out justice and defends the pack. He meets our feisty heroine when she digs three silver bullets out of his body. Their past (or their families' pasts) comes to light afterward, and the two are determined to stay away from each other. This is a problem, because the chemistry between the two is outrageous.
Why you should read it: There's much more plot to this story than what's above, yet it's the romance between Mia and Gibson that really makes this book. Their budding love, mixed with the feelings between their families, was fun and intense to read about. I recommend reading the series in order because the glimpses of Gibson in other books will make you want to read Beneath the Skin that much more.
To see what Lauren has to say about her characters check out the HEA Blog http://www.usatoday.com/story/happyev...
Why you should read it: There's much more plot to this story than what's above, yet it's the romance between Mia and Gibson that really makes this book. Their budding love, mixed with the feelings between their families, was fun and intense to read about. I recommend reading the series in order because the glimpses of Gibson in other books will make you want to read Beneath the Skin that much more.
To see what Lauren has to say about her characters check out the HEA Blog http://www.usatoday.com/story/happyev...
April 14, 2012
I've been a bit disappointed with the later books in this series. This one promised a lot of smexy and a whole lotta dirty talk, but I didn't feel it delivered. Just an example I also felt that I didn't become invested in their happiness. I liked them as characters, but I never had a 'wow they're perfect for each other' moment that I would expect from a Dane book. If you've been enjoying the series, I'd definitely recommend. If this was a physical book, it wouldn't a keeper for me, but worth reading.
March 24, 2012
This was a hot read! I have been waiting for Gibson's story for a while and this surpassed my expectations! Mia is the perfect woman for Gibson but the two of them are the last to admit it!
Mia's family is not an active member in the De La Vega jamboree because of an injustice that happened three generations ago. Gibson knows she's not for him, even if she has saved his life. But a new threat targets both of them and only together will they be able to stop it.
This is a stand alone story but I believe that a reader will enjoy it more having read the connected books which should be read as follows;
Trinity (My favorite!)
Revelation
Beneath the Skin
The main characters from Standoff, which is part of the Cascadia Wolves series, also make appearances.
Mia's family is not an active member in the De La Vega jamboree because of an injustice that happened three generations ago. Gibson knows she's not for him, even if she has saved his life. But a new threat targets both of them and only together will they be able to stop it.
This is a stand alone story but I believe that a reader will enjoy it more having read the connected books which should be read as follows;
Trinity (My favorite!)
Revelation
Beneath the Skin
The main characters from Standoff, which is part of the Cascadia Wolves series, also make appearances.
June 16, 2012
I really liked this book. Mia is my type of female. She badass with a fierce heart of gold. Lauren made the perfect heroine with independence but not too much where it's annoying. And Gibson is plain old yummy. Of course the steamy scenes are well, steamy (it's Lauren Dane) My favorite of the series.
October 10, 2014
This is book 3 in the De La Vega Cats series. This is the story of The Bringer and Mia. The characters were excellent and well thought out. I am in love with this world. I can't wait until the next book. I'm going to see if I can find another series by this author.
Read
October 2, 2017Beneath the Skin (de La Vega Cats, #3) by Lauren Dane
Another great read, Lauren Dane writing is great. I enjoyed this series very much.
Another great read, Lauren Dane writing is great. I enjoyed this series very much.
December 26, 2017
Gibson, Bringer of the De La Vega werejaguar Jamboree, has no time or patience for representatives of a much smaller Jamboree violating his territory and makes this very very clear
And then is shot with silver bullets
Thankfully, Mia is close when he is shot and able to get him to safety; a wonderful foundation for a new friendship… but not so much when Mia and Gibson’s families have been at odds for generations. And Mia herself is still recovering from a brutal crime and trying to figure out what to do with her life: getting involved in Jamboree politics in the face of attempted murder was not on the agenda.
I’m going to say I was torn when I first picked up this book. I knew Lauren Dane as an author focuses on Paranormal Romance which I’m just not a huge fan of. This isn’t a criticism of her or the genre by any means, merely an expression of different taste. So that leads me to think “not for me” and back off - except she also wrote the Rowan Summerwaite Series which I love and I consider it to be a deep and terrible crime that there are not more books in this series. So I approach this from a complicated position of high and low expectations.
And so we have this book - which is a paranormal romance with an interesting world, some great characters and generally something I really enjoyed which means in the future I’m going to be even more confused
Oh to add to the ways I unnecessarily complicate what should be a simple review - I managed to pick up book 3 of a series. Yes, so this is me deleting my review complaining “I feel like I jumped half way in to a series and have a missed a whole lot of back story!” It turns out that’s because I jumped half way into a series and have indeed missed a whole lot of back story. Go me. So let me add some praise for this book both giving me enough information about the characters and world setting for me to actually enjoy and understand this book but not trying to dump so much back story into this book as to make it unwieldy. Oh and this series is a spin off from an even larger series. Yes this has not been my best decision.
I often dislike the tropes that are common in most of the paranormal romances I read as they seem to be summed up by “unreasonable people turning minor issues into ridiculous convoluted obstacles”. I generally think all these people should stay away from each other because no relationship that has two people this inclined to drama could possibly work except for the neighbours if they have a big enough supply of popcorn
But this book takes so many of these Issues and then… behaves quite reasonably? Like Gibson and Mia’s families have a long grudge after some seriously Not Ok shit Gibson’s granddad pulled on Mia’s grandmother. This has clearly left long wounds on Mia’s families and is a barrier between them. But one that is resolved because everyone is truly shockingly sensible and realises that maybe holding a grudge for 2 generations may not be that fair?
Or there’s the time Mia is angered because Gibson suggests that maybe she needs protection and she pushes back at the idea but doesn’t turn it into more than a moment they need to address - and doesn’t run off on her own or something equally ridiculous to prove her strength and courage
Or there’s the time Mia’s mother is furious because Mia’s relationship with Gibson appears to have put her at risk. Yes that’s a barrier but equally it’s recognised that Mia doesn’t want to derail her future for it nor will doing so make the threat disappear
It’s not that the conflicts that we so often see in Paranormal Romance aren’t present; it’s that the characters deal with these conflicts like actual human beings who respect each other and have half an ounce of sense and it’s amazing how that really does make these storylines so much easier to follow.
And it gave me much more chance to like Gibson and Mia, their history, their experiences, their clearly powerful connections to their families who are so very important to them without them having to dominate the story. (I suspect, now, that these characters will receive)
Read More
And then is shot with silver bullets
Thankfully, Mia is close when he is shot and able to get him to safety; a wonderful foundation for a new friendship… but not so much when Mia and Gibson’s families have been at odds for generations. And Mia herself is still recovering from a brutal crime and trying to figure out what to do with her life: getting involved in Jamboree politics in the face of attempted murder was not on the agenda.
I’m going to say I was torn when I first picked up this book. I knew Lauren Dane as an author focuses on Paranormal Romance which I’m just not a huge fan of. This isn’t a criticism of her or the genre by any means, merely an expression of different taste. So that leads me to think “not for me” and back off - except she also wrote the Rowan Summerwaite Series which I love and I consider it to be a deep and terrible crime that there are not more books in this series. So I approach this from a complicated position of high and low expectations.
And so we have this book - which is a paranormal romance with an interesting world, some great characters and generally something I really enjoyed which means in the future I’m going to be even more confused
Oh to add to the ways I unnecessarily complicate what should be a simple review - I managed to pick up book 3 of a series. Yes, so this is me deleting my review complaining “I feel like I jumped half way in to a series and have a missed a whole lot of back story!” It turns out that’s because I jumped half way into a series and have indeed missed a whole lot of back story. Go me. So let me add some praise for this book both giving me enough information about the characters and world setting for me to actually enjoy and understand this book but not trying to dump so much back story into this book as to make it unwieldy. Oh and this series is a spin off from an even larger series. Yes this has not been my best decision.
I often dislike the tropes that are common in most of the paranormal romances I read as they seem to be summed up by “unreasonable people turning minor issues into ridiculous convoluted obstacles”. I generally think all these people should stay away from each other because no relationship that has two people this inclined to drama could possibly work except for the neighbours if they have a big enough supply of popcorn
But this book takes so many of these Issues and then… behaves quite reasonably? Like Gibson and Mia’s families have a long grudge after some seriously Not Ok shit Gibson’s granddad pulled on Mia’s grandmother. This has clearly left long wounds on Mia’s families and is a barrier between them. But one that is resolved because everyone is truly shockingly sensible and realises that maybe holding a grudge for 2 generations may not be that fair?
Or there’s the time Mia is angered because Gibson suggests that maybe she needs protection and she pushes back at the idea but doesn’t turn it into more than a moment they need to address - and doesn’t run off on her own or something equally ridiculous to prove her strength and courage
Or there’s the time Mia’s mother is furious because Mia’s relationship with Gibson appears to have put her at risk. Yes that’s a barrier but equally it’s recognised that Mia doesn’t want to derail her future for it nor will doing so make the threat disappear
It’s not that the conflicts that we so often see in Paranormal Romance aren’t present; it’s that the characters deal with these conflicts like actual human beings who respect each other and have half an ounce of sense and it’s amazing how that really does make these storylines so much easier to follow.
And it gave me much more chance to like Gibson and Mia, their history, their experiences, their clearly powerful connections to their families who are so very important to them without them having to dominate the story. (I suspect, now, that these characters will receive)
Read More
November 6, 2017
De La Vega Cats series by Lauren Dane
Paranormal/Erotica
Beneath the Skin (Book 3)
I received this book free from NetGalley. I decided to share this review because I enjoyed this book and I think you might too. I did not read book 1 in this series, but I did read book 2. You do not need to read the series in order to read this book. If you’d like to see my review of book of book 2, Revelation, I did a short video review (less than 2 minutes long) that you can view on my book review blog’s Facebook page. http://www.facebook.com/loveserially
Overall Rating: 3.5 (sXe)
Quick & Dirty summary: Mia Porter knows first-hand that being a shifter doesn’t mean you’re invincible. After almost dying in an attack in Los Angeles as a civilian, the female veteran pilot returns to her hometown to recover and finish her physical therapy. When the pack’s Bringer is shot right in front of her, Mia jumps into action. After helping Gibson to recover, she realizes that her cat wants more than to just heal the handsome shifter. Gibson can’t ignore the way his cat and his body responds to Mia. Nor can he ignore the threat that targets Mia for helping Gibson escape death. Now Gibson will need to execute the pack’s justice before Mia gets hurt again.
I read the preview for this book at the end of Revelation, book 2 in the series. I really enjoyed Revelation and thought the characters were well developed and strong, especially the females. I am happy to see that trend continues in Beneath the Skin. I was so excited when I got the copy of Beneath the Skin from NetGalley and Lauren Dane did not disappoint me.
Mia and Gibson’s chemistry is off the charts and their relationship is relatively straight-forward, which I love! There is drama, but it isn’t over the top. The pacing of the novel is quick and the suspenseful elements are great. There is a lot of action and Mia is totally kickass.
I am looking forward to reading more of Lauren Dane’s writing. Her dialogue is great, her characters have depth, and the plotlines are interesting and unique. I’m glad I discovered another author to follow and love.
Is it worth buying? (Kindle $3.99)
If you’ve read any of the other books in the series then you have to read Beneath the Skin. Since it’s $4, which is at the top of my ebook price range, I’d recommend at least reading book 2 before buying this one. It will make the book more enjoyable and make the $4 price tag more palatable. Please note, this is a re-release, so if you are familiar with this author then make sure you haven’t already read it.
Something else you might enjoy:
This is a little off the wall, but try Nalini Singh’s Lord of the Abyss. The main character isn’t really a shifter, but it’s paranormal and the heroine is a strong female.
Paranormal/Erotica
Beneath the Skin (Book 3)
I received this book free from NetGalley. I decided to share this review because I enjoyed this book and I think you might too. I did not read book 1 in this series, but I did read book 2. You do not need to read the series in order to read this book. If you’d like to see my review of book of book 2, Revelation, I did a short video review (less than 2 minutes long) that you can view on my book review blog’s Facebook page. http://www.facebook.com/loveserially
Overall Rating: 3.5 (sXe)
Quick & Dirty summary: Mia Porter knows first-hand that being a shifter doesn’t mean you’re invincible. After almost dying in an attack in Los Angeles as a civilian, the female veteran pilot returns to her hometown to recover and finish her physical therapy. When the pack’s Bringer is shot right in front of her, Mia jumps into action. After helping Gibson to recover, she realizes that her cat wants more than to just heal the handsome shifter. Gibson can’t ignore the way his cat and his body responds to Mia. Nor can he ignore the threat that targets Mia for helping Gibson escape death. Now Gibson will need to execute the pack’s justice before Mia gets hurt again.
I read the preview for this book at the end of Revelation, book 2 in the series. I really enjoyed Revelation and thought the characters were well developed and strong, especially the females. I am happy to see that trend continues in Beneath the Skin. I was so excited when I got the copy of Beneath the Skin from NetGalley and Lauren Dane did not disappoint me.
Mia and Gibson’s chemistry is off the charts and their relationship is relatively straight-forward, which I love! There is drama, but it isn’t over the top. The pacing of the novel is quick and the suspenseful elements are great. There is a lot of action and Mia is totally kickass.
I am looking forward to reading more of Lauren Dane’s writing. Her dialogue is great, her characters have depth, and the plotlines are interesting and unique. I’m glad I discovered another author to follow and love.
Is it worth buying? (Kindle $3.99)
If you’ve read any of the other books in the series then you have to read Beneath the Skin. Since it’s $4, which is at the top of my ebook price range, I’d recommend at least reading book 2 before buying this one. It will make the book more enjoyable and make the $4 price tag more palatable. Please note, this is a re-release, so if you are familiar with this author then make sure you haven’t already read it.
Something else you might enjoy:
This is a little off the wall, but try Nalini Singh’s Lord of the Abyss. The main character isn’t really a shifter, but it’s paranormal and the heroine is a strong female.
November 18, 2017
Beneath the Skin, Lauren Dane
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: sci-fi and fantasy, Romance
A reworking of an earlier series, this is book three.
I hadn't read first two books, and they're not on netgalley or available to buy, and that's a shame as it would have helped the story a bit. There are characters and events from those that crop up here, and would have made understanding motives etc easier.
There are terms too - The Bringer, and the Jambouree - that I kind of worked out as I went along, but which would have been good to know early on exactly what they were.
Anyway, its a pretty fast flowing story, succinct and yet packed with action. I loved Mia, a strong lady, she's no Baby to be tucked in a corner....and she's a perfect foil for Gibson, tough guy, charged with overseeing justice for the pack.
He's a real ladies man, but he's also a true gentleman. He's secure enough in his own skills to enjoy Mia's strength, knows he wants to protect her but has to let her do so much for herself. Its who she is, and he has to let her be that person if they are to be happy together.
I enjoyed meeting the rest of the family, seeing how the Cats all connected, and working out what was going on, who the bad guys were. Its not a brain taxing thriller, but a fun and sexy suspense, and a perfect HEA sensual read.
I have to finish with a bit that made me snort. On my review blog i have a post called bad sex terms - and this has to go in, it's perfect. "he nudged at her gate, pushing in very slowly. thick and meaty he filled her up....." WTF? Her gate? Thick and meaty?? Oh that had me sniggering like a twelve year old....
Stars: five, bad sex terms aside ;-) its a fun short, a sexy and sensual quick escape into the supernatural world.
ARC supplied for review purposes by Netgalley and Publishers
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: sci-fi and fantasy, Romance
A reworking of an earlier series, this is book three.
I hadn't read first two books, and they're not on netgalley or available to buy, and that's a shame as it would have helped the story a bit. There are characters and events from those that crop up here, and would have made understanding motives etc easier.
There are terms too - The Bringer, and the Jambouree - that I kind of worked out as I went along, but which would have been good to know early on exactly what they were.
Anyway, its a pretty fast flowing story, succinct and yet packed with action. I loved Mia, a strong lady, she's no Baby to be tucked in a corner....and she's a perfect foil for Gibson, tough guy, charged with overseeing justice for the pack.
He's a real ladies man, but he's also a true gentleman. He's secure enough in his own skills to enjoy Mia's strength, knows he wants to protect her but has to let her do so much for herself. Its who she is, and he has to let her be that person if they are to be happy together.
I enjoyed meeting the rest of the family, seeing how the Cats all connected, and working out what was going on, who the bad guys were. Its not a brain taxing thriller, but a fun and sexy suspense, and a perfect HEA sensual read.
I have to finish with a bit that made me snort. On my review blog i have a post called bad sex terms - and this has to go in, it's perfect. "he nudged at her gate, pushing in very slowly. thick and meaty he filled her up....." WTF? Her gate? Thick and meaty?? Oh that had me sniggering like a twelve year old....
Stars: five, bad sex terms aside ;-) its a fun short, a sexy and sensual quick escape into the supernatural world.
ARC supplied for review purposes by Netgalley and Publishers
October 11, 2017
When Gibson, one of the de La Vega brothers, is shot after a mysterious group of jaguars come to de la Vega territory, Mia Porter steps in to rescue him. Problem is, the Porters and de La Vegas are technically enemies, and their attraction to each other is unexpected and unwelcome. But Mia’s family history isn’t the only bit of ancient pack history that’s been drug back into the open...
I really enjoyed the Romeo and Juliet vibe, though most of the opposition to the match came from Mia’s family (and with good reason). I had mixed feelings about the previous books in this trilogy. While I enjoy reading alpha heroes, there comes a point where they verge into alpha a*-hole territory, and I felt like Galen/Jack and Max crossed that line too frequently in regards to their mates. On the other hand, Mia is a veteran with two combat tours under her belt, and the survivor of an assault that left her in a coma and with permanent damage. While Gibson still has the same protective instincts towards her, I think Mia does a better job at pushing back when he’s being unreasonable, and Gibson seems to accept that easier. I especially liked how Mia knew how to poke Gibson into expressing his feelings for her.
My main beef with the story? The villains are dumb. Like, seriously verging on too stupid to live territory. There’s an in-story reason given for it, which I think partially helped, but I still had my eyebrows raised at the clumsiness of their plans.
I felt like this was a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy. I don’t believe that Ms. Dane has plans for more books in the series, but I do wish I could read Armando’s book!
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in return for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the Romeo and Juliet vibe, though most of the opposition to the match came from Mia’s family (and with good reason). I had mixed feelings about the previous books in this trilogy. While I enjoy reading alpha heroes, there comes a point where they verge into alpha a*-hole territory, and I felt like Galen/Jack and Max crossed that line too frequently in regards to their mates. On the other hand, Mia is a veteran with two combat tours under her belt, and the survivor of an assault that left her in a coma and with permanent damage. While Gibson still has the same protective instincts towards her, I think Mia does a better job at pushing back when he’s being unreasonable, and Gibson seems to accept that easier. I especially liked how Mia knew how to poke Gibson into expressing his feelings for her.
My main beef with the story? The villains are dumb. Like, seriously verging on too stupid to live territory. There’s an in-story reason given for it, which I think partially helped, but I still had my eyebrows raised at the clumsiness of their plans.
I felt like this was a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy. I don’t believe that Ms. Dane has plans for more books in the series, but I do wish I could read Armando’s book!
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in return for an honest review.
July 11, 2020
This was one of the library books I picked up only because I am familiar with the author.
Now that I am done I think I would have enjoyed it more if I had read the other books first.
The story is centered around Gibson who they call a Bringer but it reads a bit more like judge and jury. At any rate, he gets targeted and an innocent woman saves him. It is not a case of insta-love but pretty close. The love interest Mia is a pretty tough cookie and I like how she was fighting back to live her life on her own terms. I should probably say that Mia is a veteran who survives the war only to be attacked at home. It is super cool that this book deals with the determination that comes with healing and she is not like a superwoman killing everything with her amazing powers. There are a few smexy scenes but thank goodness it was not crazy and it felt like it paced well with the story.
I liked a lot of common sense in this story. For example, Gibson and Mia's family have been fighting for decades and they have a talk and decided to end it. I like that Gibson wants to be protective, Mia doesn't like that and guess what he backs off at other times Mia is like well that is reasonable. I just love adult couples who communicate.
I wish I had better character descriptions, which I assume is what I missed out from previous books. For example, this seems to be a diverse book, I got the feeling Mia is a Latina and Gibson is either a white or black guy but he has dreads. There is a brother who seems to have two mates - a man and a woman but I was lost. I also did not fully understand the Jamboree was it just a celebration or something more.
All in all it was a fun read and I am glad I picked it up.
Now that I am done I think I would have enjoyed it more if I had read the other books first.
The story is centered around Gibson who they call a Bringer but it reads a bit more like judge and jury. At any rate, he gets targeted and an innocent woman saves him. It is not a case of insta-love but pretty close. The love interest Mia is a pretty tough cookie and I like how she was fighting back to live her life on her own terms. I should probably say that Mia is a veteran who survives the war only to be attacked at home. It is super cool that this book deals with the determination that comes with healing and she is not like a superwoman killing everything with her amazing powers. There are a few smexy scenes but thank goodness it was not crazy and it felt like it paced well with the story.
I liked a lot of common sense in this story. For example, Gibson and Mia's family have been fighting for decades and they have a talk and decided to end it. I like that Gibson wants to be protective, Mia doesn't like that and guess what he backs off at other times Mia is like well that is reasonable. I just love adult couples who communicate.
I wish I had better character descriptions, which I assume is what I missed out from previous books. For example, this seems to be a diverse book, I got the feeling Mia is a Latina and Gibson is either a white or black guy but he has dreads. There is a brother who seems to have two mates - a man and a woman but I was lost. I also did not fully understand the Jamboree was it just a celebration or something more.
All in all it was a fun read and I am glad I picked it up.
October 20, 2017
I absolutely loved this book. It’s funny, very sexy, and a little suspenseful. Mia was an airplane pilot for the Air Force. She’s a jaguar shifter and was almost killed several months ago when she was attacked by shifter haters. She is tough, sassy, and takes no crap from anyone. She returns to her family in Boston and finds a man shot on the street. Gibson is the Bringer of his jamboree, he is like the police for the jaguars. He’s a total bad boy and Mia saves him when he’s shot with silver. Then someone comes in to her family’s wine store and shoots her in the leg. When she is attacked on a jogging trail, Gibson has her stay with him. He has never felt this way about a woman and the sex is out of this world. There was some bad blood between the families but they don’t let that stop them. They’re not sure if the people are after her or Gibson. But he’ll do anything to keep her safe as will she.
* Voluntarily read and reviewed this for netgalley *
* Voluntarily read and reviewed this for netgalley *
October 9, 2017
The de La Vega brothers strike again, and this is the novel of the Bringer and Max, former soldier and real badass woman. I liked this couple a lot and I'm also wondering how all the Cascadia Wolf series and this one are going to end because now there is a lot to put up with and I would love to think that the end is near.....
I fratelli de La Vega colpiscono ancora, e questo é il turno del Bringer e di Max, in forza all'esercito in passato e donna veramente cazzutissima nel presente. Questa coppia mi é piaciuta parecchio, ed inoltre mi chiedo come confluiranno e verso quale finale stanno andando i Cascadia Wolf ed i de La Vega Cats, perché attualmente c'é parecchia carne al fuoco e mi piace pensare che si sta arrivando alla fine.
THANKS TO NETGALLEY FOR THE PREVIEW!
I fratelli de La Vega colpiscono ancora, e questo é il turno del Bringer e di Max, in forza all'esercito in passato e donna veramente cazzutissima nel presente. Questa coppia mi é piaciuta parecchio, ed inoltre mi chiedo come confluiranno e verso quale finale stanno andando i Cascadia Wolf ed i de La Vega Cats, perché attualmente c'é parecchia carne al fuoco e mi piace pensare che si sta arrivando alla fine.
THANKS TO NETGALLEY FOR THE PREVIEW!
November 25, 2017
Loved it!
While I've been a fan of Lauren's for years, I never read the shifter series...so it's been a treat to read these re-published books and I'm in love.
Gibson is the de la Vega's bringer (enforcer)..he takes care of his family and the jamboree swiftly and with intent. Mia is a retired Air Force pilot with deadly skills of her own. While their families may have a turbulent past, Mia and Gibson are thrown together by circumstances that set the stage for their love affair..and watching Gibson try and tame his own wildcat is admirable, but impossible.
Loved the story and loved Mia and Gibson?.the relationship grew and they were able to learn to depend on each and accept them for who they are..what a couple.
Can't wait for the next installment..
While I've been a fan of Lauren's for years, I never read the shifter series...so it's been a treat to read these re-published books and I'm in love.
Gibson is the de la Vega's bringer (enforcer)..he takes care of his family and the jamboree swiftly and with intent. Mia is a retired Air Force pilot with deadly skills of her own. While their families may have a turbulent past, Mia and Gibson are thrown together by circumstances that set the stage for their love affair..and watching Gibson try and tame his own wildcat is admirable, but impossible.
Loved the story and loved Mia and Gibson?.the relationship grew and they were able to learn to depend on each and accept them for who they are..what a couple.
Can't wait for the next installment..
September 23, 2017
Nothing like a awesome re-read and a chance to spend the night with THE BRINGER! I always try to re-read some of my favorite books around my birthday and Gibson (the bringer of the de La Vega Cats) and Mia come across each other in unexpected circumstances. Gibson has been shot 3 times with silver bullets and Mia who is recovering from a previous hate crime saves him. Sadly there is a history between their families. Gibson's grandfather was a womanizer who seduced and abandoned Mia's grandmother.
My favorite line in this book was when Mia's father told her. "If you get killed, I want you to understand that we will burn shit down! Do You understand?"
My favorite line in this book was when Mia's father told her. "If you get killed, I want you to understand that we will burn shit down! Do You understand?"
May 12, 2018
This book was originally published in 2012, so at this point I have to wonder if the 4th brother (Armando) will ever get his story. Which makes the ending of this book a bit abrupt. Not exactly a cliffhanger, but as if the de La Vega story is unfinished.
That said, I enjoyed this entry much more than book 2. The heroine was just as tough, but more likable. The hero was a little distant, but that makes sense given his job (Bringer of Justice) and it was interesting seeing him open up just a bit. And of course as always with Lauren Dane's books there was hot sex.
That said, I enjoyed this entry much more than book 2. The heroine was just as tough, but more likable. The hero was a little distant, but that makes sense given his job (Bringer of Justice) and it was interesting seeing him open up just a bit. And of course as always with Lauren Dane's books there was hot sex.
November 15, 2017
I voluntarily read an advanced reviewers copy of this book
I loved Mia's character she was fun, brave, selfless and had a lot of spunk. I loved that she was not afraid to step up when others would have run the other direction. I also really liked Gibson. He was the perfect counterpart for her because he was so strong that he was not intimidated by all that she had to offer but embraced it.
Overall I thought this book was really good.
I loved Mia's character she was fun, brave, selfless and had a lot of spunk. I loved that she was not afraid to step up when others would have run the other direction. I also really liked Gibson. He was the perfect counterpart for her because he was so strong that he was not intimidated by all that she had to offer but embraced it.
Overall I thought this book was really good.
December 15, 2017
I received a copy from the publisher via Netgalley
I actually thought that this was pretty good! I was unaware that I was coming into this two books late, but oh well! I’ve never read about cat shifters before so this was a new change of pace.
Mia was a cool heroine, she could kick ass and Gibson was just as great. The sex scenes were steamy and overall I thought it was an enjoyable and sexy read.
I actually thought that this was pretty good! I was unaware that I was coming into this two books late, but oh well! I’ve never read about cat shifters before so this was a new change of pace.
Mia was a cool heroine, she could kick ass and Gibson was just as great. The sex scenes were steamy and overall I thought it was an enjoyable and sexy read.
Read
September 28, 2025His Savior
Mia heard the shots and smelled jaguar when she gets to the scene she finds Gibson De La Vega spot three times with silver. She helps him from the street and removes the bullets and impresses Gibson so much he can't stay away from her. These two burn hot and fast even as the danger increases but as the truth is revealed on thing remains true Mia is Gibson's in those thrilling read.
Mia heard the shots and smelled jaguar when she gets to the scene she finds Gibson De La Vega spot three times with silver. She helps him from the street and removes the bullets and impresses Gibson so much he can't stay away from her. These two burn hot and fast even as the danger increases but as the truth is revealed on thing remains true Mia is Gibson's in those thrilling read.
October 23, 2017
Loved it! I especially loved the super strong heroine. She's fought in wars for her country, battled for her life against cowards who ambushed her and is willing to stand side by side with her man in the ring. She's just what the enforcer ordered.
I received an ARC of this book, from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for a fair and honest review
I received an ARC of this book, from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for a fair and honest review
December 14, 2017
De La Vega
I loved this book so much!!! This series was so good I didn't want it to end!!! All of the de la Vega men are strong well built men who love their women fiercely!! Definitely reread material. You can read the books alone but you will enjoy them so much more if you read them in order!!
I loved this book so much!!! This series was so good I didn't want it to end!!! All of the de la Vega men are strong well built men who love their women fiercely!! Definitely reread material. You can read the books alone but you will enjoy them so much more if you read them in order!!
September 17, 2020
This was a quick read. I enjoyed returning to the word of the de La Vega Cats. I liked how strong Mia was and how her relationship with Gibson developed. The conflicts were mostly external, which I enjoyed. It was good to see Gibson and Mia come to care for one another without a lot of internal drama or angst.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews