What do you think?
Rate this book
Purgatory #1
The Wolf Within
FBI Special Agent Duncan McGuire spends his days–and his nights–tracking real-life monsters. Most humans aren’t aware of the vampires and werewolves that walk among them. They don’t realize the danger that they face, but Duncan knows about the horror that waits in the darkness. He hunts the monsters, and he protects the innocent. Duncan just never expects to become a monster. But after a brutal werewolf attack, Duncan begins to change…and soon he will be one of the very beasts that he has hunted.
Dr. Holly Young is supposed to help Duncan during his transition. It’s her job to keep him sane so that Duncan can continue working with the FBI’s Para Unit. But as Duncan’s beast grows stronger, the passion that she and Duncan have held carefully in check pushes to the surface. The desire that is raging between them could be a very dangerous thing…because Holly isn’t exactly human, not any longer.
As the monsters circle in, determined to take out all of the agents working at the Para Unit, Holly and Duncan will have to use their own supernatural strengths in order to survive. But as they give up more of their humanity and embrace the beasts within them both, they realize that the passion between them isn’t safe, it isn’t controllable, and their dark need may just be an obsession that could destroy them both.
Author’s Note: THE WOLF WITHIN is an adult paranormal romance. It contains werewolves, vampires, adult language, sexy times, and lots of danger. Please consider yourself warned. THE WOLF WITHIN contains approximately 60,000 words.
Dr. Holly Young is supposed to help Duncan during his transition. It’s her job to keep him sane so that Duncan can continue working with the FBI’s Para Unit. But as Duncan’s beast grows stronger, the passion that she and Duncan have held carefully in check pushes to the surface. The desire that is raging between them could be a very dangerous thing…because Holly isn’t exactly human, not any longer.
As the monsters circle in, determined to take out all of the agents working at the Para Unit, Holly and Duncan will have to use their own supernatural strengths in order to survive. But as they give up more of their humanity and embrace the beasts within them both, they realize that the passion between them isn’t safe, it isn’t controllable, and their dark need may just be an obsession that could destroy them both.
Author’s Note: THE WOLF WITHIN is an adult paranormal romance. It contains werewolves, vampires, adult language, sexy times, and lots of danger. Please consider yourself warned. THE WOLF WITHIN contains approximately 60,000 words.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2012
576 people are currently reading
3448 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Eden
307 books6,791 followersAward-winning author Cynthia Eden writes sexy tales of contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and paranormal romance. She is a New York Times, USA Today, Digital Book World, and IndieReader best-seller. Since she began writing full-time in 2005, Cynthia has written over one hundred novels and novellas.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 380 reviews
February 8, 2016
Oh my! I’ve found another ‘MINE’ book!
I wasn’t particularly planning on reading this book just yet, but sometimes my finger seems to have a mind of its own. It just clicked open the book so what else could I do, except start reading the first page, then the second, and the third… I couldn’t help but get swept up in this book and I had a hard time putting it down. The story had flowed nicely, pulled me instantly into a world where paranormal creatures lived hidden among human beings.
Special Agent Duncan McGuire worked for an elite unit that hunted paranormal entities. Until one day, he was brutally attacked and bitten by werewolves, and that changed him into the thing he hated most, a beast. Then he was sent to Holly, a pretty doctor whom he had feelings for. He didn’t know if he could control his beast inside him so he tried to stay away from her. He didn’t want to hurt her. But this little woman had her own secrets, the ones that she thought Duncan wouldn’t have been able to handle.
After Duncan’s transformation, he became an alpha. Other paranormal creatures could hardly beat him. He feared nothing but Holly was his only weakness. He was very protective and extremely possessive of her.
Umm… How can I forget that, Duncan? I just lost count of how many times you said ‘MINE’! But don’t get me wrong—I loved that! I loved his possessiveness!
I loved the way Duncan and Holly attracted to each other. They had ‘something’ in common and it made them a perfect match. The sex scenes were steamy hot, totally blew me away! However, there were intense situations that kept me on the edge of my seat, and I almost forgot to breathe while reading the fight scenes.
By the way, this is a very good start to Purgatory series. There were many interesting characters that I want to know more about them. It is by far one of my pleasurable reads.
“I look at you,” his words were deeper, darker. “And think...mine.”
I wasn’t particularly planning on reading this book just yet, but sometimes my finger seems to have a mind of its own. It just clicked open the book so what else could I do, except start reading the first page, then the second, and the third… I couldn’t help but get swept up in this book and I had a hard time putting it down. The story had flowed nicely, pulled me instantly into a world where paranormal creatures lived hidden among human beings.
Special Agent Duncan McGuire worked for an elite unit that hunted paranormal entities. Until one day, he was brutally attacked and bitten by werewolves, and that changed him into the thing he hated most, a beast. Then he was sent to Holly, a pretty doctor whom he had feelings for. He didn’t know if he could control his beast inside him so he tried to stay away from her. He didn’t want to hurt her. But this little woman had her own secrets, the ones that she thought Duncan wouldn’t have been able to handle.
After Duncan’s transformation, he became an alpha. Other paranormal creatures could hardly beat him. He feared nothing but Holly was his only weakness. He was very protective and extremely possessive of her.
He pressed a kiss to her lips. “You’re mine.”
And he was hers.
“Don’t forget it.”
Umm… How can I forget that, Duncan? I just lost count of how many times you said ‘MINE’! But don’t get me wrong—I loved that! I loved his possessiveness!
To him, she was everything.
If anything happened to her, he’d just be…lost.
Because the vampire who bit him held his heart in her hands.
Duncan pressed a kiss to her lips. He loved her little fangs. Hell, he loved everything about her.
“I love you,” he said the words against her lips and felt the surprise that rippled through her.
Maybe he’d been falling for her from the very first day—when she jabbed a needle in his arm and took his blood.
His Holly…always after his blood.
I loved the way Duncan and Holly attracted to each other. They had ‘something’ in common and it made them a perfect match. The sex scenes were steamy hot, totally blew me away! However, there were intense situations that kept me on the edge of my seat, and I almost forgot to breathe while reading the fight scenes.
By the way, this is a very good start to Purgatory series. There were many interesting characters that I want to know more about them. It is by far one of my pleasurable reads.
December 27, 2019
Cynthia Eden is one of my favorite authors and I'm having a blast reading some of her old books.
The Wolf Within
was a read that only further cemented her place on my favorites list. Duncan worked for as a special agent, hunting 'bad' paranormals, until one day he gets bit by a werewolf. His transformation comes quickly because he carries a special gene and he isn't just any kind of werewolf - he's an Alpha. Only one person can help him with this transition... and she's got a major secret of her own.
Between the hidden themes, the action, the blossoming romance, and the secret agendas of way too many players, I was beyond entertained. Duncan had always wanted Holly and his beast only made his desire stronger. He was possessive, protective, and oh so sexy. He was a hot-blooded 'man' that Holly couldn't resist. Amidst the danger and death, the truths and past betrayals, the reunion of family and the opportunity for brotherhood, we're treated to intense chemistry and inescapable love. With an ending that leads into the next book in the series, I'll definitely be diving back in for more!
Between the hidden themes, the action, the blossoming romance, and the secret agendas of way too many players, I was beyond entertained. Duncan had always wanted Holly and his beast only made his desire stronger. He was possessive, protective, and oh so sexy. He was a hot-blooded 'man' that Holly couldn't resist. Amidst the danger and death, the truths and past betrayals, the reunion of family and the opportunity for brotherhood, we're treated to intense chemistry and inescapable love. With an ending that leads into the next book in the series, I'll definitely be diving back in for more!
March 27, 2019
3.5 stars
Pretty intense stuff...
Werewolves, vampires....
I guess there were no humans, apart from the poor guards, who were killed.
The gallons of blood MCs drunk from each other...
Red Cross would be grateful for this amount to be donated...
It was a time Cynthia Eden wrote good books...
Pretty intense stuff...
Werewolves, vampires....
I guess there were no humans, apart from the poor guards, who were killed.
The gallons of blood MCs drunk from each other...
Red Cross would be grateful for this amount to be donated...
It was a time Cynthia Eden wrote good books...
dnf
September 3, 2017DNF @ 86%
I decided I rather stop reading it than rating it really low. The book was really action packed and I liked some aspects of the story. I appreciated the fact that the werewolves and vampires weren't mortal enemies. I thought 3* would do it justice.
But.
It went south. Big time.
Well...
Like I haven't read, seen or heard about that for the gazillionth time.
Add to that the fact that there is no world building, IMO, plot holes, etc. For example: every werewolf could smell that the h was a vamp, but they couldn't smell the other vampires. Later when they found out who else was also a vampire, someone would say: Oh, yeah I thought you didn't smell like a human. Yeah, okay.
I rather not go on.
Ugh, sorry, I'm trying to be very polite here. Obvs this book didn't work for me, but it might work for you. The MC's are completely crazy about each other so it's safe with no OM/OW drama.
I decided I rather stop reading it than rating it really low. The book was really action packed and I liked some aspects of the story. I appreciated the fact that the werewolves and vampires weren't mortal enemies. I thought 3* would do it justice.
But.
It went south. Big time.
Well...
Like I haven't read, seen or heard about that for the gazillionth time.
Add to that the fact that there is no world building, IMO, plot holes, etc. For example: every werewolf could smell that the h was a vamp, but they couldn't smell the other vampires. Later when they found out who else was also a vampire, someone would say: Oh, yeah I thought you didn't smell like a human. Yeah, okay.
I rather not go on.
Ugh, sorry, I'm trying to be very polite here. Obvs this book didn't work for me, but it might work for you. The MC's are completely crazy about each other so it's safe with no OM/OW drama.
December 23, 2012
Review posted on Demon Lover's Books & More
Duncan works for the FBI, but even though he’s human, he knows what goes bump in the night. And he knows it isn’t good. The Para Unit has been Duncan’s home away from home for years.
I thought it was neat that there are certain humans who are predisposed to being able to take the wolf bite and survive. When Duncan was bitten, his body was not only able to handle the bite, but his alpha tendencies were magnified (not just because of his personality either, but I don’t want to give away that part!). But he didn’t want to become a wolf, he’d always figured if he got bit, his partner would shoot him. But there are other factors at play here. His partner can’t do it, and his boss won’t let anyone else do it.
His boss (quite a piece of work, btw) brings Duncan in and has Holly, their team doctor, help him through his transition. There’s something special about Holly, and if anyone can help Duncan, it’s her. But Duncan has always been attracted to this shy little doctor, and now that his body is becoming that of a werewolf, he’s afraid of what he’ll do to her. Besides, now that he’s such a monster, she wouldn’t want him anyway, right?
Holly has wanted Duncan for years, but she’s kept her distance for personal reasons. Now that he’s strong enough to handle her, should she stay away? Duncan and she can’t seem to stay apart, so...
Holly and Duncan have a few hot and heavy moments that I loved, but then there’s a huge twist in the plot that takes Duncan to Purgatory (think Alcatraz but for Paranormals). This is where I feel the book either needed more pages, or needed to rework certain parts.
Something big is brewing and we get to see the beginning, but it borderline feels out of left field. It’s important though, so it can’t be cut out of the story, and it shows where the series will be going too, I don’t know. The plot up until the last bit was just fine as it is, but I don’t think it needed to be shaken up that way. What I mean is that it seemed like there was a lot going on, and then about the last quarter of the book something big started to happen, but we didn’t have the page count to sustain that part of the plot.
I liked this story and I really liked the plot, but I wish we’d had more time spent in Purgatory since that’s a huge part of the plot, even if we don’t realize it until later. I’m really excited to read the next book to find out how they can prevent the big thing they’re trying to prevent (<--yes I had to say it that way so I don’t give any spoilers away! Lol)
Final verdict is that this is a series to watch, I absolutely can’t wait to see where it’s going from here, and it’s a steamy, sexy read.
Duncan works for the FBI, but even though he’s human, he knows what goes bump in the night. And he knows it isn’t good. The Para Unit has been Duncan’s home away from home for years.
I thought it was neat that there are certain humans who are predisposed to being able to take the wolf bite and survive. When Duncan was bitten, his body was not only able to handle the bite, but his alpha tendencies were magnified (not just because of his personality either, but I don’t want to give away that part!). But he didn’t want to become a wolf, he’d always figured if he got bit, his partner would shoot him. But there are other factors at play here. His partner can’t do it, and his boss won’t let anyone else do it.
His boss (quite a piece of work, btw) brings Duncan in and has Holly, their team doctor, help him through his transition. There’s something special about Holly, and if anyone can help Duncan, it’s her. But Duncan has always been attracted to this shy little doctor, and now that his body is becoming that of a werewolf, he’s afraid of what he’ll do to her. Besides, now that he’s such a monster, she wouldn’t want him anyway, right?
Holly has wanted Duncan for years, but she’s kept her distance for personal reasons. Now that he’s strong enough to handle her, should she stay away? Duncan and she can’t seem to stay apart, so...
Holly and Duncan have a few hot and heavy moments that I loved, but then there’s a huge twist in the plot that takes Duncan to Purgatory (think Alcatraz but for Paranormals). This is where I feel the book either needed more pages, or needed to rework certain parts.
Something big is brewing and we get to see the beginning, but it borderline feels out of left field. It’s important though, so it can’t be cut out of the story, and it shows where the series will be going too, I don’t know. The plot up until the last bit was just fine as it is, but I don’t think it needed to be shaken up that way. What I mean is that it seemed like there was a lot going on, and then about the last quarter of the book something big started to happen, but we didn’t have the page count to sustain that part of the plot.
I liked this story and I really liked the plot, but I wish we’d had more time spent in Purgatory since that’s a huge part of the plot, even if we don’t realize it until later. I’m really excited to read the next book to find out how they can prevent the big thing they’re trying to prevent (<--yes I had to say it that way so I don’t give any spoilers away! Lol)
Final verdict is that this is a series to watch, I absolutely can’t wait to see where it’s going from here, and it’s a steamy, sexy read.
Want to read
October 15, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon & on iBooks today (8/25/2020)! 🎁
May 3, 2015
2.5
This is one of those books I refer to as 'meh reads,' because that's my response to them. Meh. Nothing really horrible about them, but nothing particularly good either. I'd say this was designed simply to appeal that lizard, hind-brain we all seem to have. It's all growly, über alpha precariously contains his inner beast for the benefit of the simpering female who's caught his eye. Meh. Seen it all before.
I'll give Holley points for having the moxie to say what she wants. But she also seemed perfectly content to let her brother control every aspect of her life. Meh. Not a total wet noodle, but not a wonderfully strong heroine either.
The plot had a few twists to it, but they didn't work well for me. They felt abrupt and more like new plot arcs than twists. Meaning, it felt like, 'ok, finished that bit up, now we're going to race off in this direction now.' Not boring but not natural.
Plus, many of these new arc directions were predicated on shifting character traits. The previous super evil, murdering bastard was suddenly the wounded victim. The good brother was suddenly the manipulative director, wait, no, he's the real hero, wait, no, he's obsessively possessive. Again, not boring but not natural either.
Every obstacle set up was overcome almost instantly, even the final climactic one. There was very little build-up or time for tension to heighten before solutions were found or bad guys defeated, etc. Meh.
The same middle of the road, shoulder-shrugging indifference can be applied to the sex too. There was no foreplay to any of it. It's claim to eroticism seems to have been based solely on Duncan's intense, animalistic need. Meh. One such scene might have been nice, but when that's all we get...Meh.
So, again, it wasn't a wholly bad book. It was just clumsy and obviously designed to appeal to the lowest common denominator. It needed more character development, world-building and plain old substance.
As a side note: I think that cover model has to be one of the most over-used men in the indie publishing world. I'm so sick of seeing him!
This is one of those books I refer to as 'meh reads,' because that's my response to them. Meh. Nothing really horrible about them, but nothing particularly good either. I'd say this was designed simply to appeal that lizard, hind-brain we all seem to have. It's all growly, über alpha precariously contains his inner beast for the benefit of the simpering female who's caught his eye. Meh. Seen it all before.
I'll give Holley points for having the moxie to say what she wants. But she also seemed perfectly content to let her brother control every aspect of her life. Meh. Not a total wet noodle, but not a wonderfully strong heroine either.
The plot had a few twists to it, but they didn't work well for me. They felt abrupt and more like new plot arcs than twists. Meaning, it felt like, 'ok, finished that bit up, now we're going to race off in this direction now.' Not boring but not natural.
Plus, many of these new arc directions were predicated on shifting character traits. The previous super evil, murdering bastard was suddenly the wounded victim. The good brother was suddenly the manipulative director, wait, no, he's the real hero, wait, no, he's obsessively possessive. Again, not boring but not natural either.
Every obstacle set up was overcome almost instantly, even the final climactic one. There was very little build-up or time for tension to heighten before solutions were found or bad guys defeated, etc. Meh.
The same middle of the road, shoulder-shrugging indifference can be applied to the sex too. There was no foreplay to any of it. It's claim to eroticism seems to have been based solely on Duncan's intense, animalistic need. Meh. One such scene might have been nice, but when that's all we get...Meh.
So, again, it wasn't a wholly bad book. It was just clumsy and obviously designed to appeal to the lowest common denominator. It needed more character development, world-building and plain old substance.
As a side note: I think that cover model has to be one of the most over-used men in the indie publishing world. I'm so sick of seeing him!
February 21, 2017
It was a nice and enjoyable reading
November 23, 2012
I loved the book's plot, the twists kept coming, right from when the FBI hero is bitten and turned into a werewolf to finding out that heroine, the doctor in the facility the hero has lusted after for a year is a vampire and step-sister of the director Pate. The heroine was turned a year ago saving her brother. Pate, dude, he needs lessons, he was so manipulative and creepy. I loved the whole prison thing and finding out that the hero came from a werewolf family. Very good setup for the series and the romance was engaging as well.
November 3, 2019
This started off strong but fell apart with too many twists and turns. Everyone had a hidden identity or secret and it lost all credibility.
The sex between Duncan and Holly was pretty hot there was no depth to their love.
Not sure if I'll continue this series.
The sex between Duncan and Holly was pretty hot there was no depth to their love.
Not sure if I'll continue this series.
August 24, 2017
An average read, a couple of plot holes. Fated mate equals love came across as just lust. Quite simplistic overall story arc, the next appears to have more potential.
November 29, 2021
Well written twisty adventure with hints about the bad guy revealed at the end. The H is turned wolf, h is a vamp in hiding and he's mad for her. Her brother is shady, his brother is a killer and there are lots of hints about the hidden Alpha. The H will have to fight if he wants to keep the h. It felt like an overload or perhaps I read it at a furious pace and it ends with HFN.
August 16, 2023
Special Agent Duncan McGuire works in the Para(normal) Unit at the FBI and he hunts down evil werewolves and vampires for a living. When he gets bitten by a werewolf during one of his missions, Dr. Holly Young is tasked to help him with his transition.
This book is so action-packed and the story takes place within the space of days. It's usually hard to believe that people can fall in love in such a short amount of time, but this is paranormal romance, so I'm just rolling with it. The world building is straightforward and very easy to follow. I'd say this book is a good place to start for readers who have never read paranormal romance before. Is this the best the paranormal romance genre has to offer? Nah. But it's fast-paced, entertaining, and the world building isn't overwhelming at all. I do have some questions regarding the smaller details of the world, but I think my questions may get answered in the later books.
Overall, this was a fun book that I devoured really fast. I am excited to continue the series.
This book is so action-packed and the story takes place within the space of days. It's usually hard to believe that people can fall in love in such a short amount of time, but this is paranormal romance, so I'm just rolling with it. The world building is straightforward and very easy to follow. I'd say this book is a good place to start for readers who have never read paranormal romance before. Is this the best the paranormal romance genre has to offer? Nah. But it's fast-paced, entertaining, and the world building isn't overwhelming at all. I do have some questions regarding the smaller details of the world, but I think my questions may get answered in the later books.
Overall, this was a fun book that I devoured really fast. I am excited to continue the series.
April 11, 2017
A really great start to a great series. This series still remained in the same universe of Ms. Cynthia Eden's world of paranormal. It also had the usual style of writing as well as the usual types of hero and heroine. If you already are the fan of Ms. Cynthia Eden, this first book to the Purgatory series will not disappoint you.
4.75 stars
4.75 stars
December 19, 2012
**********
Three sex scenes, lots of blood / gore, minimal or no cussing, several typos
**********
A solid suspense with lots of earthy, passionate sizzle. First book in the Purgatory series, involving werewolves, vampires, and humans, with heroes and zeroes in all three species. It's set in and around Seattle, mainly at a compound in the woods, an FBI-operated containment center and infirmary for paranormal creatures. The last part of the book is set out on an island off the coast of Washington state, in a special prison for paranormals, called Purgatory.
The story is told in third person POV. We mainly get the goods from Holly, the heroine, but also from Duncan.
Spoiler Free Feedback!!
Duncan McGuire, wolf-buster on the FBI paranormal division, has had the hots for Holly Young, a doctor, from the first time he met her, but he felt she was too shy, well-mannered, and fragile for the likes of him. Holly, likewise, has been attracted to Duncan since the first time she gave him a physical exam at her infirmary, but for her own reasons, she keeps to herself. That's all about to change, and quickly!! Duncan becomes super protective and passionate about Holly, and she returns the favor, with no helpless hand-wringing.
But besides the romantic relationship (which is primarily physical), the suspense kept me guessing. What secret is Holly hiding? Why can't Duncan fully remember the attack in his early childhood? Who is trying to kill all the ____?
And the million dollar question: Who is trying to FREE all the psychotic werewolves and vampires from Purgatory, loosing their evil back on the world, and...why? (We don't find out in this book, but we get some clues.)
Secondary characters were a source for more speculation: Who is Connor? Why does he hate Duncan? What is Pate's agenda?? Can we trust Shane? Again, what is Pate doing? Why?? Is he a villain? Or...not?
Except for about 10 typos, the writing was good, with flowing dialogue. Things moved along at a fast clip from page one. I am very happy to report that the pace is NOT bogged down with endless pages of rumination, reflection, worrying and/or guilt-tripping. YES!
The sex scenes were...a little uncomfortable, but only because Romantic!? (but kinda hot, nonetheless) J
Flaw: Holly had some TSTL moments -- especially down in the basement of the seedy Seattle bar -- but then again....maybe not.
Three sex scenes, lots of blood / gore, minimal or no cussing, several typos
**********
A solid suspense with lots of earthy, passionate sizzle. First book in the Purgatory series, involving werewolves, vampires, and humans, with heroes and zeroes in all three species. It's set in and around Seattle, mainly at a compound in the woods, an FBI-operated containment center and infirmary for paranormal creatures. The last part of the book is set out on an island off the coast of Washington state, in a special prison for paranormals, called Purgatory.
The story is told in third person POV. We mainly get the goods from Holly, the heroine, but also from Duncan.
Spoiler Free Feedback!!
Duncan McGuire, wolf-buster on the FBI paranormal division, has had the hots for Holly Young, a doctor, from the first time he met her, but he felt she was too shy, well-mannered, and fragile for the likes of him. Holly, likewise, has been attracted to Duncan since the first time she gave him a physical exam at her infirmary, but for her own reasons, she keeps to herself. That's all about to change, and quickly!! Duncan becomes super protective and passionate about Holly, and she returns the favor, with no helpless hand-wringing.
But besides the romantic relationship (which is primarily physical), the suspense kept me guessing. What secret is Holly hiding? Why can't Duncan fully remember the attack in his early childhood? Who is trying to kill all the ____?
And the million dollar question: Who is trying to FREE all the psychotic werewolves and vampires from Purgatory, loosing their evil back on the world, and...why? (We don't find out in this book, but we get some clues.)
Secondary characters were a source for more speculation: Who is Connor? Why does he hate Duncan? What is Pate's agenda?? Can we trust Shane? Again, what is Pate doing? Why?? Is he a villain? Or...not?
Except for about 10 typos, the writing was good, with flowing dialogue. Things moved along at a fast clip from page one. I am very happy to report that the pace is NOT bogged down with endless pages of rumination, reflection, worrying and/or guilt-tripping. YES!
The sex scenes were...a little uncomfortable, but only because Romantic!? (but kinda hot, nonetheless) J
Flaw: Holly had some TSTL moments -- especially down in the basement of the seedy Seattle bar -- but then again....maybe not.
February 29, 2020
In a twinkling of an eye FBI Special Agent Duncan McGuire was exposed, he knew the risks and consequences. He knew the score. No longer was Duncan hunting what he'd been so excellent at capturing, he was what he hunted…he was a werewolf and could only curse the friend that wouldn't kill him. He’d rather be dead than alive as a subject.
Captivating, sexy Dr. Holly Young, was just one reason Duncan couldn’t face containment. Duncan the man was already enchanted by her and his newly minted bloodlust could destroy or damn her. More importantly, Duncan didn't want the irresistible Holly to see him as less than the man he was, a man worthy of a woman like her.
If Duncan survives his change, things between them will change and Holly can share her most closely held secrets. Her desire for Duncan and her life before becoming personal physician for the agents. Learning Duncan will be an Alpha wolf after his change, FBI Director Pate decides on a plan where Duncan is still valuable to the agency.
Holly and Duncan grow closer to becoming a couple, adjusting to their new normal as everything spins out control when secrets and betrayals are uncovered. Duncan struggles to control the werewolf inside and the threat of being sent to Purgatory, the paranormal prison hanging over his head, especially when Holly is forbidden to him.
For this reader’s taste, the pacing was uneven and the world was hastily built but the characters were fleshed well enough and the story was strong. Overall, the outing was well done with complex and unexpected twists, turns and curves from spilled revelations that kept the read interesting.
Rating: 4stars
Captivating, sexy Dr. Holly Young, was just one reason Duncan couldn’t face containment. Duncan the man was already enchanted by her and his newly minted bloodlust could destroy or damn her. More importantly, Duncan didn't want the irresistible Holly to see him as less than the man he was, a man worthy of a woman like her.
If Duncan survives his change, things between them will change and Holly can share her most closely held secrets. Her desire for Duncan and her life before becoming personal physician for the agents. Learning Duncan will be an Alpha wolf after his change, FBI Director Pate decides on a plan where Duncan is still valuable to the agency.
Holly and Duncan grow closer to becoming a couple, adjusting to their new normal as everything spins out control when secrets and betrayals are uncovered. Duncan struggles to control the werewolf inside and the threat of being sent to Purgatory, the paranormal prison hanging over his head, especially when Holly is forbidden to him.
For this reader’s taste, the pacing was uneven and the world was hastily built but the characters were fleshed well enough and the story was strong. Overall, the outing was well done with complex and unexpected twists, turns and curves from spilled revelations that kept the read interesting.
Rating: 4stars
November 25, 2012
Sigh. So today I took The Wolf Within outside with me so I could read a little bit of it while the kids played. I figured I would read a few chapters and then go in to start dinner. Yeah, that is not what happened. By the time I finally came up for air I was over 75% done with the story and had to call my Hubby to pick up pizza for dinner. Yes, it is that good!
Duncan McGuire is an FBI Special Agent assigned to the secret Para Unit. This special unit is charged with taking dangerous paranormal beings off the street. Unfortunately one night while trying to bring in a werewolf he is bitten and begins to turn into one. He is taken to the Para Unit’s Dr. Holly Young even though he begged to see someone else. He knew that as a man he was already attracted to Holly and was afraid the wolf he was becoming would be even more so.
He was right to be worried. His wolf does want Holly and she wants him as well. As he learns more about himself and Holly’s secrets come to light, they have to fight to be together.
Yep, this is one yummy werewolf/ vampire romance and I am totally looking for to the rest of this new series!
Duncan McGuire is an FBI Special Agent assigned to the secret Para Unit. This special unit is charged with taking dangerous paranormal beings off the street. Unfortunately one night while trying to bring in a werewolf he is bitten and begins to turn into one. He is taken to the Para Unit’s Dr. Holly Young even though he begged to see someone else. He knew that as a man he was already attracted to Holly and was afraid the wolf he was becoming would be even more so.
He was right to be worried. His wolf does want Holly and she wants him as well. As he learns more about himself and Holly’s secrets come to light, they have to fight to be together.
Yep, this is one yummy werewolf/ vampire romance and I am totally looking for to the rest of this new series!
July 17, 2014
The wolf within by Cynthia Eden is a good story. I enjoyed it immensely. It takes the werewolf vampire genre a step further than I previously seen. Duncan McGuire works for the paranormal division of the FBI. They hunt rogue werewolves and vampires who go on murderous sprees killing humans. The humans except for a handfull, have no idea these monsters exist. Some of the humans and rogues suffer injuries due to the nature of the game. That's where Holly comes in. Shes a doctor/scientist who also works for the FBI who patches them up. Her brother Pace got her the job. Duncan gets attacked and bitten on the job. He turns into a werewolf. An alpha werewolf. The most dangerous. His wolf likes Holly. Holly is secretly a vampire. Her brother has her searching for a cure against vampirism. They use Duncan to go after a rogue alpha wolf murdering humans. It leads him to Conner, who he finds is his brother. They have Duncan go und
January 3, 2013
I absolutely LOVE Cynthia Eden's books and writing, but this one came up short to say the least. The story wasn't even all that intriquing like her stories usually are. The characters weren't really written to where you could either love or hate them. There just wasn't enough information about them to do that. The build up for the "fight" or even the ending wasn't even strong. There were no surprises like usual, no falling in love with the character that I usually do with Cynthia's books. Nothing. I will continue to get her books, I just hope she takes a little more time in her creativity with them than she did with this one. (Not in LENGTH of time, but with thinking out the story.)
As for recommending this book, I honestly am on the fence about it. I am gonna have to be honest and say "no" I probably would not recommend this one as a good read. Sorry.
As for recommending this book, I honestly am on the fence about it. I am gonna have to be honest and say "no" I probably would not recommend this one as a good read. Sorry.
October 10, 2015
I actually intended to skip this series as I wasn't very interested in the main concept but I had this book so I thought what the hell and decided to read it .. and I gotta admit .. I gobbled it up. The characters were incredibly interesting .. main characters aside you didn't really know who was the villain and who was the good guy when it came to all the other characters. I doubted everyone and a character I thought was evil and was definitely gonna end up dead managed to surprise me too. The plot was full of twists and turns and the characters always seemed to have more and more secrets. Also Cynthia Eden always makes sure her male characters get their intensity pill .. and of course you won't see me complaining *grins* Onto the next.
June 9, 2016
3.5 Stars.
Cynthia Eden books always leave me saying "why didn't I read this sooner".
No exception with The Wolf Within, you have a sexy guy, a kick-ass girl and a well thought out, predictably unpredictable romantic suspense novel. With the added bonus of a few paranormal beings thrown in for good measure.
Great start to a series, straight onto book two for me!
Cynthia Eden books always leave me saying "why didn't I read this sooner".
No exception with The Wolf Within, you have a sexy guy, a kick-ass girl and a well thought out, predictably unpredictable romantic suspense novel. With the added bonus of a few paranormal beings thrown in for good measure.
Great start to a series, straight onto book two for me!
September 29, 2020
This was an enjoyable read. The suspense and world-building was very good, however the romance fell a little flat for me. I could believe that what the characters felt for each other was lust, but the HEA at the end was a little unbelievable. However, I really enjoyed all the characters, and I'll definitely be reading the rest of the books in the series.
July 23, 2013
Hot, hot, hot and another amazing awesome paranormal world. Cynthia Eden can you do no wrong?
Just read it, totally awesome!
Just read it, totally awesome!
dnf
May 30, 2017DNF
December 9, 2018
Cynthia Eden is fast becoming a favourite for me! Everything I have been reading of hers has delivered right when I needed it most! I normally have read her romantic suspense but was more than happy to try out her PNR and boy did it not disappoint!
.
Our hero is part of a special FBI team that deals in hunting down the supernatural who are responsible for crimes (although the supernatural is still mainly in the closet). However, on his latest case he gets bitten by a werewolf and turned into the thing he has been hunting. All of a sudden he is more intense and alpha and his inner beast wants their doctor/scientist who has been helping the team.
.
I won’t lie I love a good alpha hero with an inner voice that says “mine”, and this hero had me wanting to throw myself at him. This wasn’t an especially long read but set up the series perfectly (its book 1). It was hot 🔥🔥 and sexy and still with a great suspense storyline. Cannot wait to continue this series!
.
Our hero is part of a special FBI team that deals in hunting down the supernatural who are responsible for crimes (although the supernatural is still mainly in the closet). However, on his latest case he gets bitten by a werewolf and turned into the thing he has been hunting. All of a sudden he is more intense and alpha and his inner beast wants their doctor/scientist who has been helping the team.
.
I won’t lie I love a good alpha hero with an inner voice that says “mine”, and this hero had me wanting to throw myself at him. This wasn’t an especially long read but set up the series perfectly (its book 1). It was hot 🔥🔥 and sexy and still with a great suspense storyline. Cannot wait to continue this series!
August 4, 2018
This is the first book in the Purgatory series. I thought the plot was more complex and complete than I usually find in shifter books. I did find the main character, Duncan, incomplete in that his range of emotions is pretty much limited to rage or stoicism and lack of control. As a result the romance was stiff and the shifter sex scenes were lacking in heat. The action is good and the secondary characters have lots of potential for further books in the series. I liked the female lead Holly. The secrets of the book revolve around her and I could hardly wait to discover them. The discoveries are a bit slow to come to light.
March 8, 2020
Special Agent Duncan McGuire is kicking ass in the para unit when he's bitten by a werewolf. He's brought back to headquarters so Dr. Holly can assist him with his first change. Duncan soon realizes his attraction to Holly can not be ignored; his wolf thinks she's their mate. Soon Holly's secret comes out, and Duncan's not the only one with sharp teeth.
The story follows the two as they chase down the bad guys. There are several twist and turns that keeps you guessing just who the bad guys are. There are secondary characters (fellow agents) that will star in the remainder of the series. Overall, ok read. I received it as a freebie Friday deal.
The story follows the two as they chase down the bad guys. There are several twist and turns that keeps you guessing just who the bad guys are. There are secondary characters (fellow agents) that will star in the remainder of the series. Overall, ok read. I received it as a freebie Friday deal.
November 17, 2018
This book was the monthly pick for my online paranormal book club. I’ve never read this author before and this was a really good read. I loved that the author didn’t go the traditional paranormal route and this book had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. There were so many twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. I never knew what was going to happen and it was such an exciting read. The last few chapters had me hooked and I couldn’t read fast enough. I liked the main couple but their relationship was a little too insta love for me. Other than that this was still a great read and I’m so happy all the books in this series are out and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
March 15, 2017
Not the worst paranormal romance I've read recently but that doesn't make it good either. Too many tropey characters but a strong enough plot line.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 380 reviews