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Coveted #0.4
Bitter Disenchantment
Werewolf Natalya Stravinsky's outspoken sidekick, Aggie McClure, is featured in this prequel novella. Before Agatha set foot in South Toms River, New Jersey, she had the fight of her life to face. Destined to be the alpha female over her Manhattan pack, Aggie was fully prepared to take on her role until her father arranges a marriage without her consent. She wants out–but the only way is with money–something her new controlling husband won't give her to escape. But such odds never kept a wolf like Aggie down. To sever the twisted tie, she finds herself pitted against raging wood nymphs and backstabbing brownies in an underground supernatural fighting ring. With every victory, the sweet taste of freedom is closer, but her husband isn't willing to let her go that easily. Until the very end, Aggie must fight for the one thing she's never had: a choice.
156 pages, Paperback
First published April 23, 2013
10 people are currently reading
609 people want to read
About the author
Shawntelle Madison
39 books480 followersShawntelle Madison is a web developer who loves to weave words as well as code. She’d never admit it, but if asked she’d say she covets and collects source code. After losing her first summer job detassling corn, Shawntelle performed various jobs—from fast-food clerk to grunt programmer to university webmaster. Writing eccentric characters is her most favorite job of them all. On any particular day when she’s not surgically attached to her computer, she can be found watching cheesy horror movies or the latest action-packed anime. She lives in Missouri with her husband and children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
May 8, 2013
I received a copy of this book from NetGallley in exchange for an honest review.
I have to say that I really enjoyed this story. I liked Aggie, and her strength and independence. It was nice have a female lead with an eating disorder other than anorexia or bulimia, and that he compulsive overeating was treated as the serious issue it as rather than a failure of willpower or self control. I liked her practical response to her father's controlling ways. She doesn't waste too much time whining, feeling bad for herself, or making silly, impractical plans. She's not happy, but it doesn't mean that she is going to do all she can to make her marriage fail.
I liked that Victor wasn't a cartoon villain, and that he started out pretty charming. It was only as their relationship developed that his controlling behavior became more apparent, and Aggie decides that she needs to leave. That made me so happy. In so many romance novel his behavior would have been portrayed as loving, and even romantic. She's his little woman of course he wants to lock her up so no one can hurt her. I'm so glad that this book didn't take that path.
The secondary characters are well developed, and add quite a bit to the story. They live in a hard world, and this is not a story without pain, and sacrifice. People make hard choices to protect, and care for those they love. The short story at the end was fun, and I look forward to reading more about these characters, and their world.
I have to say that I really enjoyed this story. I liked Aggie, and her strength and independence. It was nice have a female lead with an eating disorder other than anorexia or bulimia, and that he compulsive overeating was treated as the serious issue it as rather than a failure of willpower or self control. I liked her practical response to her father's controlling ways. She doesn't waste too much time whining, feeling bad for herself, or making silly, impractical plans. She's not happy, but it doesn't mean that she is going to do all she can to make her marriage fail.
I liked that Victor wasn't a cartoon villain, and that he started out pretty charming. It was only as their relationship developed that his controlling behavior became more apparent, and Aggie decides that she needs to leave. That made me so happy. In so many romance novel his behavior would have been portrayed as loving, and even romantic. She's his little woman of course he wants to lock her up so no one can hurt her. I'm so glad that this book didn't take that path.
The secondary characters are well developed, and add quite a bit to the story. They live in a hard world, and this is not a story without pain, and sacrifice. People make hard choices to protect, and care for those they love. The short story at the end was fun, and I look forward to reading more about these characters, and their world.
November 30, 2025
Angie McClure is the daughter to the alpha werewolf of the Manhattan pack. She has been training to take over as the alpha female for years, but when her father agrees to an arranged marriage on her behalf, her entire world changes. She is no longer allowed to fulfill her role in the family's company; her new husband has taken her place, and her only role is to have a child.
She wants out of being an incubator for the next alpha, and her only escape is money. Having no access to funds now that her new husband is in charge, Angie must fight in gaming rings to earn her escape.
This was a dark, paranormal, shifter story. Angie’s journey to freedom is one of hardship and loss. I was emotionally moved by the circumstances that gained Angie’s freedo,m but didn’t understand or agree with some of the choices that were made by Angie as well as other characters in this story. I found Bitter Disenchantment a dark, fast-paced, action-packed adventure with an intriguing and enjoyable plot. I got to say I’m a little partial to the South Toms River locale since I grew up in Beachwood, the next town over...
This ARC of Bitter Disenchantment was given to me by Shawntelle Madison in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication May 7, 2013.
She wants out of being an incubator for the next alpha, and her only escape is money. Having no access to funds now that her new husband is in charge, Angie must fight in gaming rings to earn her escape.
This was a dark, paranormal, shifter story. Angie’s journey to freedom is one of hardship and loss. I was emotionally moved by the circumstances that gained Angie’s freedo,m but didn’t understand or agree with some of the choices that were made by Angie as well as other characters in this story. I found Bitter Disenchantment a dark, fast-paced, action-packed adventure with an intriguing and enjoyable plot. I got to say I’m a little partial to the South Toms River locale since I grew up in Beachwood, the next town over...
This ARC of Bitter Disenchantment was given to me by Shawntelle Madison in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication May 7, 2013.
May 17, 2013
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads
I wasn’t a big fan of Aggie’s character in Coveted but my opinion of her completely changed after finishing Bitter Disenchantment. I’m so happy that Shawntelle Madison gave her a second chance to make an impression on me! Originally I thought she was a bossy, opportunistic, spoiled brat but now I see her in a whole new light. It’s amazing how drastically your opinion of a character can change once you learn more about what makes them tick. Aggie really is an alpha female through and through.
At the start of this novella, things seem to be going smoothly for Agatha; well, that is, despite the arranged marriage thing. Victor appeared to be a decent guy and even though their relationship wasn’t founded on true love I had hope that they’d get there eventually. I actually thought that this story might be kind of boring just because it started out so perfectly. However, if reading Urban Fantasy has taught me anything it’s to expect the unexpected! Things quickly escalate and instead of having the perfect life she envisioned Aggie’s now stuck in her own personal version of hell. Her father was grooming her to be the next pack alpha but now that there’s a new man in the picture her role has been reduced to that of a breed mare. Talk about a harsh demotion!
Everyone around Agatha is struggling to understand why she can’t just be content with her lot in life. I mean, is being a rich, kept wolf really the worst thing in the world? So what if she has to pop out a few babies; the servants will take care of them, right? I admired Aggie for refusing to accept her fate and for choosing the more difficult path even if it could ultimately result in her death. In Coveted I never really understood why Aggie ran away but now that I do, I have a new found respect for her. I’m with her, I’d rather face-off against raging wood nymphs and backstabbing brownies too rather than become a baby making machine!
Bitter Disenchantment is a great addition to the Coveted series!
I wasn’t a big fan of Aggie’s character in Coveted but my opinion of her completely changed after finishing Bitter Disenchantment. I’m so happy that Shawntelle Madison gave her a second chance to make an impression on me! Originally I thought she was a bossy, opportunistic, spoiled brat but now I see her in a whole new light. It’s amazing how drastically your opinion of a character can change once you learn more about what makes them tick. Aggie really is an alpha female through and through.
At the start of this novella, things seem to be going smoothly for Agatha; well, that is, despite the arranged marriage thing. Victor appeared to be a decent guy and even though their relationship wasn’t founded on true love I had hope that they’d get there eventually. I actually thought that this story might be kind of boring just because it started out so perfectly. However, if reading Urban Fantasy has taught me anything it’s to expect the unexpected! Things quickly escalate and instead of having the perfect life she envisioned Aggie’s now stuck in her own personal version of hell. Her father was grooming her to be the next pack alpha but now that there’s a new man in the picture her role has been reduced to that of a breed mare. Talk about a harsh demotion!
Everyone around Agatha is struggling to understand why she can’t just be content with her lot in life. I mean, is being a rich, kept wolf really the worst thing in the world? So what if she has to pop out a few babies; the servants will take care of them, right? I admired Aggie for refusing to accept her fate and for choosing the more difficult path even if it could ultimately result in her death. In Coveted I never really understood why Aggie ran away but now that I do, I have a new found respect for her. I’m with her, I’d rather face-off against raging wood nymphs and backstabbing brownies too rather than become a baby making machine!
Bitter Disenchantment is a great addition to the Coveted series!
May 8, 2013
This book was provided to me courtesy of netgalley.com
“Bitter Disenchantment” is an emotionally jammed packed story about the daughter of a powerful alpha werewolf. Agatha “Aggie” McClure has been working for her powerful father since graduating college. She is summoned to see him where she learns her father has replace her mother as alpha mate for a younger wolf, Kelly, who can provide him with pups. To make matters worse, she is informed her hand has been promised in marriage to an alpha to another New York pack.
Needless to say, Aggie is outraged, but if she has learned anything from her mother, it is to handle all situations with decorum. She checks to make sure that her mother is okay and meets her betrothed, Victor. After interviewing Victor, she comes to the conclusion that he is a decent man; so, she agrees to marry him. Soon after they are wed, her job is taken away from her; she is immediately tested regularly to see if she is impregnated and is place under guard. It appears her decent husband has made a deal to deliver an heir to Aggie’s father or he will lose a chain of hotel holdings.
When you go against everything you believe in, you are left with nothing and this is a painful lesson Aggie has learned the hard way. She develops a plan to reclaim her freedom and rescue her mother from a possible assassination attempt at the hands of her new stepmother. This plan will take her into the underbelly of the fight clubs of New York City where everyone does not necessarily walk out alive.
I truly enjoyed this novella and the world Shawntelle Madison has created. I will admit, I was quite angry at how quickly Aggie agrees to the whole arranged marriage situation because I thought she was stronger than that. However, in the end, her creativity in securing her freedom and that of her mother’s made a much better read. Because of this novella, I have decided to go on to read the first book in the Coveted series. I cannot wait to see what is on the horizon for these characters.
“Bitter Disenchantment” is an emotionally jammed packed story about the daughter of a powerful alpha werewolf. Agatha “Aggie” McClure has been working for her powerful father since graduating college. She is summoned to see him where she learns her father has replace her mother as alpha mate for a younger wolf, Kelly, who can provide him with pups. To make matters worse, she is informed her hand has been promised in marriage to an alpha to another New York pack.
Needless to say, Aggie is outraged, but if she has learned anything from her mother, it is to handle all situations with decorum. She checks to make sure that her mother is okay and meets her betrothed, Victor. After interviewing Victor, she comes to the conclusion that he is a decent man; so, she agrees to marry him. Soon after they are wed, her job is taken away from her; she is immediately tested regularly to see if she is impregnated and is place under guard. It appears her decent husband has made a deal to deliver an heir to Aggie’s father or he will lose a chain of hotel holdings.
When you go against everything you believe in, you are left with nothing and this is a painful lesson Aggie has learned the hard way. She develops a plan to reclaim her freedom and rescue her mother from a possible assassination attempt at the hands of her new stepmother. This plan will take her into the underbelly of the fight clubs of New York City where everyone does not necessarily walk out alive.
I truly enjoyed this novella and the world Shawntelle Madison has created. I will admit, I was quite angry at how quickly Aggie agrees to the whole arranged marriage situation because I thought she was stronger than that. However, in the end, her creativity in securing her freedom and that of her mother’s made a much better read. Because of this novella, I have decided to go on to read the first book in the Coveted series. I cannot wait to see what is on the horizon for these characters.
August 27, 2013
4.5 stars
Aggie McClure has been one of my favorite characters in Shawntelle Madison's Coveted series since the get-go so I was very excited to read a novella from her perspective. Bitter Disenchantment didn't disappoint! I loved Aggie's voice and I feel like presenting her story was a very smart choice by Shawntelle. Also, it was very enjoyable to see Natayla from someone else's point of view.
Bitter Disenchantment finds Aggie forced to marry someone she doesn't know because she is an alpha female. She tries to make the best of the situation and finds herself genuinely attracted to her husband. Everything seems to be going well until he informs her she is basically nothing more to him than a brood mare and that she must be pregnant within six months.
It was heartbreaking to see what happened to Aggie. While she lived a pampered life, she lost any sense of freedom or respect that she thought she had earned. She was basically a prisoner in her own home. Because she is stubborn and a bit of a heard-head, Aggie is determined to get her life back no matter what it takes. I enjoyed the glimpses of vulnerability that we got from Aggie because she does have a bit of a hard surface. The story between her mother and father also added another layer to her character. This story should be considered required reading for any fan of the Coveted series as it helps flesh out one of the best characters in the books.
Thank you to Netgalley and Shawntelle Madison for providing an ARC copy of this book!
Aggie McClure has been one of my favorite characters in Shawntelle Madison's Coveted series since the get-go so I was very excited to read a novella from her perspective. Bitter Disenchantment didn't disappoint! I loved Aggie's voice and I feel like presenting her story was a very smart choice by Shawntelle. Also, it was very enjoyable to see Natayla from someone else's point of view.
Bitter Disenchantment finds Aggie forced to marry someone she doesn't know because she is an alpha female. She tries to make the best of the situation and finds herself genuinely attracted to her husband. Everything seems to be going well until he informs her she is basically nothing more to him than a brood mare and that she must be pregnant within six months.
It was heartbreaking to see what happened to Aggie. While she lived a pampered life, she lost any sense of freedom or respect that she thought she had earned. She was basically a prisoner in her own home. Because she is stubborn and a bit of a heard-head, Aggie is determined to get her life back no matter what it takes. I enjoyed the glimpses of vulnerability that we got from Aggie because she does have a bit of a hard surface. The story between her mother and father also added another layer to her character. This story should be considered required reading for any fan of the Coveted series as it helps flesh out one of the best characters in the books.
Thank you to Netgalley and Shawntelle Madison for providing an ARC copy of this book!
July 21, 2013
This was a decent urban fantasy book by a pretty consistently good author. I liked lots of things about this story. I thought that Aggie was an interesting heroine with her binge-eating disorder (though who can binge eat and look like that hottie on the cover of this book!?! Oh yeah, a werewolf...) and her no-whining, take charge attitude. I also thought that is was interesting that Aggie's marriage started out promising and it was only later that things began to crumble, like many real marriages. In many ways this novella was a very pleasant read.
What didn't I like? Well, I could tell that this book was meant to be a prequel because it felt like only part of a larger story. I wanted to know more about some of the characters and I felt like we didn't get to see the whole breadth of them here. I also think that the book lost some steam in the middle and I found my attention wandering at times.
Overall, this book was a very worthwhile read, even if it doesn't rank up there with my favorite shifter books.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
What didn't I like? Well, I could tell that this book was meant to be a prequel because it felt like only part of a larger story. I wanted to know more about some of the characters and I felt like we didn't get to see the whole breadth of them here. I also think that the book lost some steam in the middle and I found my attention wandering at times.
Overall, this book was a very worthwhile read, even if it doesn't rank up there with my favorite shifter books.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
April 30, 2013
Aggie is the kind of alpha female you want on your side. Take no prisoners, she'll protect what's hers against the worst kind of betrayal - that of her father. Aggie will never be a doormat and how she gets out of her predicament will leave you rooting for her!
Shawntelle Madison is back with the fabulous voice and laugh out loud, nail biting wit that makes her an auto buy author for me. She's a rare talent, someone who can make you laugh and cry all at once. She makes you feel these characters! Highly recommend!
Shawntelle Madison is back with the fabulous voice and laugh out loud, nail biting wit that makes her an auto buy author for me. She's a rare talent, someone who can make you laugh and cry all at once. She makes you feel these characters! Highly recommend!
November 15, 2015
Great read. I'm looking forward to finding out more about Aggie.
May 5, 2013
What a GREAT addition to Shawntelle Madison's Coveted Series! Bitter Disenchantment takes a bold step to the left... amidst all our romance stories we forget that there is always something more to a character than what we see. In Bitter Disenchantment Ms Madison shares Aggie's story... well her story this far and it is an amazing one. Beware, this is no happily ever after.. well maybe it is but this is a story about a woman escaping from a man not running into the arms of one. A great side trip!!
Aggie McClure has it all, she is an alpha wolf,, daughter to the biggest alpha wolf in the New York area.. She works at a great job (ok she works for her father and the pack but she loves it). She is a little miffed at her father for setting aside her mother and marrying someone wayyyyyyyy less amazing but she is dealing, sort of. But when her father informs her she is betrothed and her marriage will take place shortly she starts to unravel. Aggie has an eating disorder, yep just like Natalya in Coveted she is flawed and handles stress like many of the rest of us regular humans do.. You know by eating!! Her father does his best to control her and even places locks on the fridge and cupboards... It's hard to be a wolf with issues.
Aggie has a difficult path to walk.. she understands that she must marry and accepts that jerkface from Philly really does want to marry her and become a team.. that is until she says yes.. slowly each of her jobs are being taken from her and as soon as the marriage/mating is binding she finds herself in a different marriage than she signed up for. Hubby dearest wants her womb not her mind.. Suddenly she finds herself locked in with guards and no one to save her.
Aggie finds a way to get both her mother and herself away from this toxic situation and finds her way to Jersey and Nat's pack.. I really enjoyed watching Nat find her way and hope that she will be finding a true mate of her own soon!!
Great continuation of this fabulous series
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Bitter Disenchantment provided by netgalley and scheduled for release on May 7, 2013
Aggie McClure has it all, she is an alpha wolf,, daughter to the biggest alpha wolf in the New York area.. She works at a great job (ok she works for her father and the pack but she loves it). She is a little miffed at her father for setting aside her mother and marrying someone wayyyyyyyy less amazing but she is dealing, sort of. But when her father informs her she is betrothed and her marriage will take place shortly she starts to unravel. Aggie has an eating disorder, yep just like Natalya in Coveted she is flawed and handles stress like many of the rest of us regular humans do.. You know by eating!! Her father does his best to control her and even places locks on the fridge and cupboards... It's hard to be a wolf with issues.
Aggie has a difficult path to walk.. she understands that she must marry and accepts that jerkface from Philly really does want to marry her and become a team.. that is until she says yes.. slowly each of her jobs are being taken from her and as soon as the marriage/mating is binding she finds herself in a different marriage than she signed up for. Hubby dearest wants her womb not her mind.. Suddenly she finds herself locked in with guards and no one to save her.
Aggie finds a way to get both her mother and herself away from this toxic situation and finds her way to Jersey and Nat's pack.. I really enjoyed watching Nat find her way and hope that she will be finding a true mate of her own soon!!
Great continuation of this fabulous series
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Bitter Disenchantment provided by netgalley and scheduled for release on May 7, 2013
May 6, 2013
The author decided to break some of the most well known rules about shifters specifically wolves. Straying from the party line in fiction isn't a bad thing but I think it was to the detriment of this plot. Making jigsaw puzzle pieces fit by biting off a bit just to keep the story flowing made the sub-plots less enjoyable.
The main character is an overprivileged shifter with an eating disorder and the will of a wet blanky. She is a supposed alpha female but does nothing but bow down and follow orders given to her by males.
That brings me to the alpha males in the story.Let's just say they would be easily recognisable walking down the street toting their 'We are misogynistic tossers, yield to our global power' T-shirts. Not a charming hero amongst the lot of them.
If that wasn't enough the main character Aggie shows her selfish and thoughtless side when it comes to her friends. Who needs enemies with friends like Aggie.
It felt as if the author was skating close to the new fad of abusive men are the new pseudo hero/bad guy and are attractive to women,which seems to be very en vogue in the popular YA and NA books right now.
I think the inconsistencies in the shifter world might irritate some readers.I do think there is potential, but to be a really good supernatural story the author needs to delve deeper into pack laws and skate a little less frequently on the men are sexy when they treat women like doormats scenarios.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley.
The main character is an overprivileged shifter with an eating disorder and the will of a wet blanky. She is a supposed alpha female but does nothing but bow down and follow orders given to her by males.
That brings me to the alpha males in the story.Let's just say they would be easily recognisable walking down the street toting their 'We are misogynistic tossers, yield to our global power' T-shirts. Not a charming hero amongst the lot of them.
If that wasn't enough the main character Aggie shows her selfish and thoughtless side when it comes to her friends. Who needs enemies with friends like Aggie.
It felt as if the author was skating close to the new fad of abusive men are the new pseudo hero/bad guy and are attractive to women,which seems to be very en vogue in the popular YA and NA books right now.
I think the inconsistencies in the shifter world might irritate some readers.I do think there is potential, but to be a really good supernatural story the author needs to delve deeper into pack laws and skate a little less frequently on the men are sexy when they treat women like doormats scenarios.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley.
April 24, 2013
I often struggle with Urban Fantasies and/or Paranormal Romances because no matter how badass the female lead may be, she almost always gives up some of her freedom to a dominant male lead. Sure, in return she gets an impossibly perfect guy who makes her scream out with pleasure every night, but she must always remember that she "belongs" to him. It makes me crazy!
Aggie is her own Alpha. She can lust after hot guys and enjoy great sex while also running a successful branch of a business and making her own decisions, thank you very much! And I do thank Shawntelle Madison for creating characters like Aggie or Natalya. They're not only genuine, but original. I can't think of any other character in my reading repertoire who mirror these two women. They may have similar traits to other literary characters, (that is bound to happen), but in this series I have found women refreshingly real, which is a refreshingly new experience for me!
I felt for Aggie's plight, cheered her on as she tried to solve her own problems, and now cannot wait to read more of her adventures. A great read!
Aggie is her own Alpha. She can lust after hot guys and enjoy great sex while also running a successful branch of a business and making her own decisions, thank you very much! And I do thank Shawntelle Madison for creating characters like Aggie or Natalya. They're not only genuine, but original. I can't think of any other character in my reading repertoire who mirror these two women. They may have similar traits to other literary characters, (that is bound to happen), but in this series I have found women refreshingly real, which is a refreshingly new experience for me!
I felt for Aggie's plight, cheered her on as she tried to solve her own problems, and now cannot wait to read more of her adventures. A great read!
April 25, 2013
I have read the other books in the coveted series and enjoyed them, so was excited to read this novella about Aggie.
Talk about a book not going how you expect it to go. It was great trust me but different to what I expected.
Aggie wow what a characther, so strong and savvy, she's the daughter of an alpha and is happily getting own with her own life in high end NYC, her family life has gone wrong but things are going to change again......
Enter victor fiancée to be, his smooth, gorgeous, and has all the right lines who could say no!
I have to say, I enjoyed the story, the writing which is from aggies pov and the characther development for Aggie was good. I grew to despise a select few other characthers but that was the plan i am sure.
Pick up this book if your into werewolves and not looking for the general werewolf meets werewolf story.
A strong four star read
I received an arc of this book for an honest review.
Talk about a book not going how you expect it to go. It was great trust me but different to what I expected.
Aggie wow what a characther, so strong and savvy, she's the daughter of an alpha and is happily getting own with her own life in high end NYC, her family life has gone wrong but things are going to change again......
Enter victor fiancée to be, his smooth, gorgeous, and has all the right lines who could say no!
I have to say, I enjoyed the story, the writing which is from aggies pov and the characther development for Aggie was good. I grew to despise a select few other characthers but that was the plan i am sure.
Pick up this book if your into werewolves and not looking for the general werewolf meets werewolf story.
A strong four star read
I received an arc of this book for an honest review.
May 14, 2014
Braine's Talk Supe review
BITTER DISENCHANTMENT won't leave you bitter. It might be a novella but it'll make your heart pound with excitement, your jaw clenching in anger towards Desmond and Victor, and your hand clutching your chest on those moments where Aggie's had close calls. Agatha McClure is a female worthy to be called a HEROINE. This girl is begging for a spin-off!
BITTER DISENCHANTMENT won't leave you bitter. It might be a novella but it'll make your heart pound with excitement, your jaw clenching in anger towards Desmond and Victor, and your hand clutching your chest on those moments where Aggie's had close calls. Agatha McClure is a female worthy to be called a HEROINE. This girl is begging for a spin-off!
April 16, 2013
I really enjoyed this story in the COVETED world. Shawntelle Madison wrote a true alpha female in Aggie.
September 17, 2023
(FYI I tend to only review one book per series, unless I change my mind on a series, so want to change my scoring by more than 0.50 of a star. -- I tend not to read reviews until after I read a book, so I go in with an open mind.)
I'd not read any in this series before, so looked to start with the prequels.
Wolves are my favourite type of shifter, so I've read a lot of books with them in. This book ignores some of the 'rules' that are in place and completely turned me off trying any more of the series.
There could have been ways to make the plotline work, i.e. the MC's family line only being alpha's due to a mage charm handed down (so not acting like actual alphas). Daddy dearest choosing a like minded male for his daughter to get a grandson on to take over the pack. This would explain why he doesn't act like an alpha, could break his mate bond with his mate, MC's mom, and be willing to arrange a marriage for his daughter. If it had been set up as a pack that was not the norm for a wolf pack and only once she escaped did MC realise what actual healthy packs look like.
First time read the author's work?: Yes
Will you be reading more?: No
Would you recommend?: No
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
I'd not read any in this series before, so looked to start with the prequels.
Wolves are my favourite type of shifter, so I've read a lot of books with them in. This book ignores some of the 'rules' that are in place and completely turned me off trying any more of the series.
There could have been ways to make the plotline work, i.e. the MC's family line only being alpha's due to a mage charm handed down (so not acting like actual alphas). Daddy dearest choosing a like minded male for his daughter to get a grandson on to take over the pack. This would explain why he doesn't act like an alpha, could break his mate bond with his mate, MC's mom, and be willing to arrange a marriage for his daughter. If it had been set up as a pack that was not the norm for a wolf pack and only once she escaped did MC realise what actual healthy packs look like.
First time read the author's work?: Yes
Will you be reading more?: No
Would you recommend?: No
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
June 14, 2017
Dnf. I made it most of the way through, but. There's a reason we have editors. I am ok with the occasional typo. Major plot holes I have an issue with. I kept trying to suspend disbelief but I threw in the towel. It has potential, but. find. an. editor. please.
February 9, 2022
Somewhat predictable, but this is still a good read.
May 28, 2013
Bitter Disenchantment is a prequel to Coveted, which is the first book in the series. In the first book we meet the redheaded Aggie McClure after she had already fled her father and her pack. Bitter Disenchantment focuses on Aggie's background as the former alpha female heir to the McClure pack.
From the outside it would seem that Aggie's life was going reasonably well. Aggie, being the only daughter of Desmond McClure, lives in luxury and even had a great job at her father's company. Her largest worry is what will happen to her mother now that her father has chosen to discard her mother in hopes of getting a male heir. Though Aggie is very dominant, the patriarchal nature of werewolves means that she can never ever lead. Desmond actually tells Aggie, " If only you'd been born a man, you would've made a fine pack leader."
Things take a turn for the worst when Aggie's father announces that he intends to marry her off to Victor, thus breaking his promise to allow her to choose her own mate. Aggie is quite resistant to Victor until he courts her with food, her life long weakness. After Victor decides to romance Aggie with her life long weakness food and they marry, Aggie thinks that things just might work out. Unfortunately for Aggie things take a turn for the worst when Aggie realises that Victor has no feelings for her whatsoever and intends to turn her into a brooding mare for pups, Aggie knows that has no choice but to flee. The problems escalate when Aggie learns that her fathers new wife intends to have her mother killed.
Having read all of the books in the Coveted series before, there was no doubt that Aggie would be successful in her escape. That fact however did not interrupt my pleasure in reading this novella. I have always been curious about Aggie, and Bitter Disenchantment gave us some great insight into her life and what lead to her compulsive eating. It's so easy to understand that with Desmond's cruelty and her inability to have much control over her life why Aggie over eats. This is actually a nice change of pace because over eating in books involving supernaturals is always presented as normal and necessary because of a high metabolism. My only issue is that though Aggie quips about clogging her arteries, there are no real consequences for her over eating. Whenever an addiction becomes the topic of conversation, there needs to be some sort of consequence for it to be taken seriously. The message needs to be conveyed that addiction hurts.
In many books, the controlling nature of male werewolves is something that is heavily romanticized (yes, I'm looking at you Adam Hauptman from the Mercy Thompson series) It is excused as part of their wolf nature and women are expected to cower, or at the very least alter their behaviour to avoid upsetting them. Part of what made me enjoy this short story so much, is that even though Aggie was far from perfect, she was determined to lead her own life and make her own choices at all cost. At no time did Madison make it appear that Victor forcing Aggie to remain in her apartment, and restricting her diet to produce offspring was the least bit acceptable.
Read More
From the outside it would seem that Aggie's life was going reasonably well. Aggie, being the only daughter of Desmond McClure, lives in luxury and even had a great job at her father's company. Her largest worry is what will happen to her mother now that her father has chosen to discard her mother in hopes of getting a male heir. Though Aggie is very dominant, the patriarchal nature of werewolves means that she can never ever lead. Desmond actually tells Aggie, " If only you'd been born a man, you would've made a fine pack leader."
Things take a turn for the worst when Aggie's father announces that he intends to marry her off to Victor, thus breaking his promise to allow her to choose her own mate. Aggie is quite resistant to Victor until he courts her with food, her life long weakness. After Victor decides to romance Aggie with her life long weakness food and they marry, Aggie thinks that things just might work out. Unfortunately for Aggie things take a turn for the worst when Aggie realises that Victor has no feelings for her whatsoever and intends to turn her into a brooding mare for pups, Aggie knows that has no choice but to flee. The problems escalate when Aggie learns that her fathers new wife intends to have her mother killed.
Having read all of the books in the Coveted series before, there was no doubt that Aggie would be successful in her escape. That fact however did not interrupt my pleasure in reading this novella. I have always been curious about Aggie, and Bitter Disenchantment gave us some great insight into her life and what lead to her compulsive eating. It's so easy to understand that with Desmond's cruelty and her inability to have much control over her life why Aggie over eats. This is actually a nice change of pace because over eating in books involving supernaturals is always presented as normal and necessary because of a high metabolism. My only issue is that though Aggie quips about clogging her arteries, there are no real consequences for her over eating. Whenever an addiction becomes the topic of conversation, there needs to be some sort of consequence for it to be taken seriously. The message needs to be conveyed that addiction hurts.
In many books, the controlling nature of male werewolves is something that is heavily romanticized (yes, I'm looking at you Adam Hauptman from the Mercy Thompson series) It is excused as part of their wolf nature and women are expected to cower, or at the very least alter their behaviour to avoid upsetting them. Part of what made me enjoy this short story so much, is that even though Aggie was far from perfect, she was determined to lead her own life and make her own choices at all cost. At no time did Madison make it appear that Victor forcing Aggie to remain in her apartment, and restricting her diet to produce offspring was the least bit acceptable.
Read More
June 10, 2013
I really enjoyed the supernatural world that Shawntelle Madison created in her Coveted series so I was eager to read this prequel that was written about minor character, Aggie McClure. After reading this one, I have to say that I think I enjoyed this one possibly more than the other books in the series. It has made me want to go back and re-read the series for Aggie moments now that I've read what went on before for her.
Agatha McClure is the daughter of the powerful alpha werewolf of the Midtown Pack of NYC. He has recently replaced her mother as his mate and now he's arranged for her mating like a business deal. After her initial anger at having her choice taken away, Aggie decides to give the mating a try since Victor is so nice to her, but then she discovers that he has made a deal with her father. Victor just has to get Aggie pregnant and he gets a gold mine of a business deal and is the heir apparent to the alpha. In the meantime, Victor controls her every move, takes over her responsibilities in the pack and her father's business, and gives her a piddly allowance so she is left helpless.
This doesn't set well with Aggie and see sets out with determination to end this farce of a marriage/mating and live her own life free to make her own choices. Aggie's efforts lead her into the world of underground fight rings to earn the money needed to break her mate bond and get her mother away from her father. While there is some danger involved in the fighting, Aggie is also the person of interest to a mysterious group who try to kidnap or attack her. Aggie soon learns the true cost of freedom and what some people are willing to sacrifice for others.
The story line kept me riveted from the beginning. I always loved Aggie in the series as Nat's best friend and roomie, but having her thoughts and seeing her struggles in this story just made her an even better character to me. It was tough seeing what she had to deal with as well as Paula and Helm. I absolutely hated her father, Victor and her mother's replacement Kelly. The way I got emotionally involved in the characters is a sign that it was a well written story for me. I can't help feeling greedy and wanting more of the minor characters to get their stories now.
Oh, and the short story that is included as a bonus featuring Heidi the Mermaid, Lillian the Succubus and Abby the Muse with a brief appearance by Nick (my personal favorite) was a fun read.
I can easily recommend this story for fans of the series. To those who haven't read the series, I would suggest you read through Coveted and Kept first before this one so you'll have a feel for the worldbuilding of the series even if it chronologically is first.
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this story for review purposes.
Agatha McClure is the daughter of the powerful alpha werewolf of the Midtown Pack of NYC. He has recently replaced her mother as his mate and now he's arranged for her mating like a business deal. After her initial anger at having her choice taken away, Aggie decides to give the mating a try since Victor is so nice to her, but then she discovers that he has made a deal with her father. Victor just has to get Aggie pregnant and he gets a gold mine of a business deal and is the heir apparent to the alpha. In the meantime, Victor controls her every move, takes over her responsibilities in the pack and her father's business, and gives her a piddly allowance so she is left helpless.
This doesn't set well with Aggie and see sets out with determination to end this farce of a marriage/mating and live her own life free to make her own choices. Aggie's efforts lead her into the world of underground fight rings to earn the money needed to break her mate bond and get her mother away from her father. While there is some danger involved in the fighting, Aggie is also the person of interest to a mysterious group who try to kidnap or attack her. Aggie soon learns the true cost of freedom and what some people are willing to sacrifice for others.
The story line kept me riveted from the beginning. I always loved Aggie in the series as Nat's best friend and roomie, but having her thoughts and seeing her struggles in this story just made her an even better character to me. It was tough seeing what she had to deal with as well as Paula and Helm. I absolutely hated her father, Victor and her mother's replacement Kelly. The way I got emotionally involved in the characters is a sign that it was a well written story for me. I can't help feeling greedy and wanting more of the minor characters to get their stories now.
Oh, and the short story that is included as a bonus featuring Heidi the Mermaid, Lillian the Succubus and Abby the Muse with a brief appearance by Nick (my personal favorite) was a fun read.
I can easily recommend this story for fans of the series. To those who haven't read the series, I would suggest you read through Coveted and Kept first before this one so you'll have a feel for the worldbuilding of the series even if it chronologically is first.
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this story for review purposes.
May 13, 2013
My Rating: 4.5 stars: Loved it - enthusiastically recommend (A)
Originally Posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Shifter Agatha McClure, aka Aggie, is the only daughter of Desmond McClure, the powerful alpha of the Midtown wolf pack. Desmond is making changes at home, to include leaving Aggie’s mom and mating with a new wolf, one that will produce an heir to take over the pack someday. In addition, he’s also declared it is time for Aggie to marry, introducing to Aggie her intended, Victor. Not one to take things lying down, Aggie refuses to just sit back and marry Victor until she gets to know him better. Unfortunately for Aggie, it isn’t until after she marries Victor that she finds out he’s not the man she hoped he’d be.
While reading the first two books in Ms. Madison’s Coveted series, I’d grown rather fond of Nat’s best friend, Aggie. But after reading Bitter Disenchantment, I’ve learned to love Aggie. She is one tough wolf and full of amazing fortitude. She never complains and learns when to pick her battles, especially with her father and her husband. She stays focused on what is important, but remains flexible enough to roll with the punches (literally!). I hope that Ms. Madison pens another tale from Aggie’s POV.
Both Desmond and Victor are devilish antagonists. Desmond’s cruelty is overtly dominant, while Victor hides behind a polished exterior. The pair are beyond controlling, attempting to bend the world and people around them to their individual wills. They are so easy to hate, which makes me cheer for Aggie even more.
Overall, the story is well written. The author does a fabulous job chronicling the degradation of Aggie's marriage and hopes. The means by which Aggie chooses to escape is an interesting one, and it goes to show how desperate she's become. I enjoy her interactions with fellow fighter, Paula and Paula’s children-it shows what a good, kind and caring person Aggie is.
In addition to the primary storyline of Aggie’s efforts to break free from her husband, there is a mysterious group of spellcasters after her. Although this is a minor thread, it has just enough meat to add some intrigue.
In the end, Bitter Disenchantment is a wonderful novella with a lot of substance. The story has an emotional edge and depth that had me shedding a few tears. I enjoyed the themes of overcoming odds and creating friendships, and about allowing someone else to fight for you once and a while. The story has a lot for being a shorter book. Friendship, betrayal, love and loss. Excellent story.
Originally Posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Shifter Agatha McClure, aka Aggie, is the only daughter of Desmond McClure, the powerful alpha of the Midtown wolf pack. Desmond is making changes at home, to include leaving Aggie’s mom and mating with a new wolf, one that will produce an heir to take over the pack someday. In addition, he’s also declared it is time for Aggie to marry, introducing to Aggie her intended, Victor. Not one to take things lying down, Aggie refuses to just sit back and marry Victor until she gets to know him better. Unfortunately for Aggie, it isn’t until after she marries Victor that she finds out he’s not the man she hoped he’d be.
While reading the first two books in Ms. Madison’s Coveted series, I’d grown rather fond of Nat’s best friend, Aggie. But after reading Bitter Disenchantment, I’ve learned to love Aggie. She is one tough wolf and full of amazing fortitude. She never complains and learns when to pick her battles, especially with her father and her husband. She stays focused on what is important, but remains flexible enough to roll with the punches (literally!). I hope that Ms. Madison pens another tale from Aggie’s POV.
Both Desmond and Victor are devilish antagonists. Desmond’s cruelty is overtly dominant, while Victor hides behind a polished exterior. The pair are beyond controlling, attempting to bend the world and people around them to their individual wills. They are so easy to hate, which makes me cheer for Aggie even more.
Overall, the story is well written. The author does a fabulous job chronicling the degradation of Aggie's marriage and hopes. The means by which Aggie chooses to escape is an interesting one, and it goes to show how desperate she's become. I enjoy her interactions with fellow fighter, Paula and Paula’s children-it shows what a good, kind and caring person Aggie is.
In addition to the primary storyline of Aggie’s efforts to break free from her husband, there is a mysterious group of spellcasters after her. Although this is a minor thread, it has just enough meat to add some intrigue.
In the end, Bitter Disenchantment is a wonderful novella with a lot of substance. The story has an emotional edge and depth that had me shedding a few tears. I enjoyed the themes of overcoming odds and creating friendships, and about allowing someone else to fight for you once and a while. The story has a lot for being a shorter book. Friendship, betrayal, love and loss. Excellent story.
June 10, 2013
Life for Aggie McClure has hit an all-time low. Accustomed to being the daughter of the Alpha of Manhattan, working nose to nose with powerful business contacts, she finds her father has performed the ultimate betrayal against her. Unknown to her, he has arranged her marriage to another wolf, a powerful businessman who will take over her father's pace someday. Reduced to being a breeding vessel, Aggie and her wolf say NO Freakin' Way as she suffers from Bitter Disenchantment with her new life and she decides to come up with a plan to escape her new hellish existence, at any cost. Meanwhile, she is also the target for a sinister plot by other supernatural entities who want to use her for their own purposes. Can she pull off the great escape? Can she also free her mother from the clutches of her ego-maniacal father? Aggie will stop at nothing to be free. Can she make it unscathed? Will someone else pay the price for her freedom?
Shawntelle Madison's world of the supernatural is fast-paced, yet rich with detail and strong main characters. She gives life to Aggie's emotions and strength, with her crisp, no nonsense style. if you didn't believe in werewolves before, after meeting Aggie, you may change your mind!
I was provided with a review copy of Bitter Disenchantment by NetGalley and Shawntelle Madison in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: April 23, 2013
Publisher: Shawntelle Madison
ISBN: 9780988798526
Number of Pages: 158
Genre: Paranormal Fantasy/Fiction
Available from: Amazon / Barnes & Noble
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
Age Recommendation: Adult
Shawntelle Madison's world of the supernatural is fast-paced, yet rich with detail and strong main characters. She gives life to Aggie's emotions and strength, with her crisp, no nonsense style. if you didn't believe in werewolves before, after meeting Aggie, you may change your mind!
I was provided with a review copy of Bitter Disenchantment by NetGalley and Shawntelle Madison in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: April 23, 2013
Publisher: Shawntelle Madison
ISBN: 9780988798526
Number of Pages: 158
Genre: Paranormal Fantasy/Fiction
Available from: Amazon / Barnes & Noble
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
Age Recommendation: Adult
July 18, 2013
Full Blog Post @Book-Marks the Spot
I received this book from CrushStar Multimedia LLC for my honest review.
Agatha AKA Aggie is the daughter to the alpha of the Manhattan pack. Life for her might seem like it’s been easy, but it hasn’t. She had to live with her father abusing her mom. When he found out about her eating habits, he took precautions with her as well. He put locks on all the pantries and would have people watch her. If that wasn’t enough he finds her someone to mate with and announces her engagement. She is reluctant at first, but Victor wears her down. She thought she knew him, but she didn’t know him at all. Now she will do anything to get him and her father out of her life and she has found just the place.
Aggie is in the fight for her life.
I’ve always wondered how Aggie ended up in South Toms River, New Jersey and now that I know, it was nothing like I expected. She had to fight to get her freedom, her freedom from her father and her husband. I always knew that Aggie was a tough cookie, but I didn’t know how tough until this book. A lot of sacrifices were made is this book and I cried at each one. Aggie was just great. She could give as well as take a beating. I also loved how Aggie and Nat met. We just get a little glimpse in Coveted. If Aggie didn’t meet Nat I don’t know where she would have gone. She wants everyone from her past to disappear.
Overall: A highly enjoyable book that has lots of action and difficult decisions
Aggie: I don’t blame her one bit for the things she did in this book. I would have done the same thing. No one wants to be locked in their room like a prison. Especially by someone that you thought you knew. She has real courage to do the things she did and she cares for others deeply, which she shows in the book. I came to care about Aggie and this made me love the book all the more.
Victor: Oh the charmer. He tries his best to get Aggie to like him and he finally wears her down. I know others will think he is a pretty stand up guy, but this guy has skeletons in his closet. He is not who he seems and has everyone fooled. So yeah, I highly dislike him.
4 STARS
I received this book from CrushStar Multimedia LLC for my honest review.
Agatha AKA Aggie is the daughter to the alpha of the Manhattan pack. Life for her might seem like it’s been easy, but it hasn’t. She had to live with her father abusing her mom. When he found out about her eating habits, he took precautions with her as well. He put locks on all the pantries and would have people watch her. If that wasn’t enough he finds her someone to mate with and announces her engagement. She is reluctant at first, but Victor wears her down. She thought she knew him, but she didn’t know him at all. Now she will do anything to get him and her father out of her life and she has found just the place.
Aggie is in the fight for her life.
I’ve always wondered how Aggie ended up in South Toms River, New Jersey and now that I know, it was nothing like I expected. She had to fight to get her freedom, her freedom from her father and her husband. I always knew that Aggie was a tough cookie, but I didn’t know how tough until this book. A lot of sacrifices were made is this book and I cried at each one. Aggie was just great. She could give as well as take a beating. I also loved how Aggie and Nat met. We just get a little glimpse in Coveted. If Aggie didn’t meet Nat I don’t know where she would have gone. She wants everyone from her past to disappear.
Overall: A highly enjoyable book that has lots of action and difficult decisions
Aggie: I don’t blame her one bit for the things she did in this book. I would have done the same thing. No one wants to be locked in their room like a prison. Especially by someone that you thought you knew. She has real courage to do the things she did and she cares for others deeply, which she shows in the book. I came to care about Aggie and this made me love the book all the more.
Victor: Oh the charmer. He tries his best to get Aggie to like him and he finally wears her down. I know others will think he is a pretty stand up guy, but this guy has skeletons in his closet. He is not who he seems and has everyone fooled. So yeah, I highly dislike him.
4 STARS
May 19, 2013
Review Courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy
As a prequel to the Coveted series, readers already know where Aggie ends up, but its the journey there in BITTER DISENCHANTMENT that really fleshes her out. Aggie is tough, independent and privilege being the daughter of the alpha wolf. What I like about this series is that it shows people with problems and disorders realistically and it shows that while they don’t overcome their problems they learn to manage them eventually. It was really interesting seeing the impetus for Aggie’s binge eating issues which relate to some serious childhood trauma.
One of the unique things about BITTER DISENCHANTMENT is that its not focused on the building of a romance or even a relationship but the slow breaking down of one. Most of the time I am rooting for a couple to get along and reconcile their differences which is why I almost felt sorry for Victor (Aggie’s husband) especially considering his lavish gifts and kindness during the start of their courtship.
Like any relationship doomed to fail however, the cracks start to show and boy do they show! After Victor reveals his true colors, BITTER DISENCHANTMENT became more than a story dealing with domestic abuse but an intense story about Aggie struggling to escape to be able to make her own decisions with her life. Aggie shows that she is most definitely not a woman who will tolerate being chained up and let her autonomy be taken away. I really enjoyed seeing her fight both in and out of the ring for her freedom especially after what she goes through with Victor and her father.
For a story about leaving a bad situation and relationship, BITTER DISENCHANTMENT is a wonderfully hopeful and satisfying prequel for the Coveted series. Now that Aggie’s past has been fleshed out I’m looking forward to more of her in COMPELLED coming out in 2014.
Sexual Content: one sex scene
As a prequel to the Coveted series, readers already know where Aggie ends up, but its the journey there in BITTER DISENCHANTMENT that really fleshes her out. Aggie is tough, independent and privilege being the daughter of the alpha wolf. What I like about this series is that it shows people with problems and disorders realistically and it shows that while they don’t overcome their problems they learn to manage them eventually. It was really interesting seeing the impetus for Aggie’s binge eating issues which relate to some serious childhood trauma.
One of the unique things about BITTER DISENCHANTMENT is that its not focused on the building of a romance or even a relationship but the slow breaking down of one. Most of the time I am rooting for a couple to get along and reconcile their differences which is why I almost felt sorry for Victor (Aggie’s husband) especially considering his lavish gifts and kindness during the start of their courtship.
Like any relationship doomed to fail however, the cracks start to show and boy do they show! After Victor reveals his true colors, BITTER DISENCHANTMENT became more than a story dealing with domestic abuse but an intense story about Aggie struggling to escape to be able to make her own decisions with her life. Aggie shows that she is most definitely not a woman who will tolerate being chained up and let her autonomy be taken away. I really enjoyed seeing her fight both in and out of the ring for her freedom especially after what she goes through with Victor and her father.
For a story about leaving a bad situation and relationship, BITTER DISENCHANTMENT is a wonderfully hopeful and satisfying prequel for the Coveted series. Now that Aggie’s past has been fleshed out I’m looking forward to more of her in COMPELLED coming out in 2014.
Sexual Content: one sex scene
May 10, 2013
4.5/5
Mon avis en Français
My English review
And if I told you that I love this series so much that I did not even read the synospsis or looked about what was going to happen but decided insteand to get into it as soon as I had it? Yes, yes, it’s true! Coveted is a really wonderful series, so I was pleasantly surprised when I discovered this novella. Especially when I learned that we could be able to follow Agatha including her life before she comes to Nat. I confess that I was eager to learn all this. In fact we had so little information about her during this period life as she is very secretive.
Agatha is a young woman who has not had the easiest life. It’s really sad to see how she was educated and we can only be impressed by the woman she has become while having a father like that. She is the daughter of the alpha of the pack and she has to fulfill a lot of duties, but she certainly doesn’t expect that her dear father would engage her to a man she does not know. But Aggie is a very determined girl and it’s for that she is against all that. But her future husband Victor does not seem so terrible and she could even fall in love with him. However it would have been perfect if he wouldn’t have changed after their wedding.
I was really sad about Aggie. I was really hoping that she could find happiness and I did not expect such a change in Victor. But I’m really glad she found the courage to rebel herself and find a solution to her woes. I just wonder how her life will continue now, but I think we will have to read the next volumes to know. In any case I loved to learn more about her and see her as she really was because we do not really know much. This book was a wonderful surprise and I really recommend the series if you have not yet tried, you’ll fall in love with Nat and Agatha!
Mon avis en Français
My English review
And if I told you that I love this series so much that I did not even read the synospsis or looked about what was going to happen but decided insteand to get into it as soon as I had it? Yes, yes, it’s true! Coveted is a really wonderful series, so I was pleasantly surprised when I discovered this novella. Especially when I learned that we could be able to follow Agatha including her life before she comes to Nat. I confess that I was eager to learn all this. In fact we had so little information about her during this period life as she is very secretive.
Agatha is a young woman who has not had the easiest life. It’s really sad to see how she was educated and we can only be impressed by the woman she has become while having a father like that. She is the daughter of the alpha of the pack and she has to fulfill a lot of duties, but she certainly doesn’t expect that her dear father would engage her to a man she does not know. But Aggie is a very determined girl and it’s for that she is against all that. But her future husband Victor does not seem so terrible and she could even fall in love with him. However it would have been perfect if he wouldn’t have changed after their wedding.
I was really sad about Aggie. I was really hoping that she could find happiness and I did not expect such a change in Victor. But I’m really glad she found the courage to rebel herself and find a solution to her woes. I just wonder how her life will continue now, but I think we will have to read the next volumes to know. In any case I loved to learn more about her and see her as she really was because we do not really know much. This book was a wonderful surprise and I really recommend the series if you have not yet tried, you’ll fall in love with Nat and Agatha!
June 29, 2013
Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick
This novella focuses on Aggie McClure, the outspoken red-headed sidekick of Natalya Stravinsky, the main character of Coveted. This story is written as a prequel to the series letting the reader in on the events surrounding Aggie’s arrival in South Toms River, New Jersey.
Having not read Coveted yet this was my first time experiencing these characters as well as Madison’s writing. I am looking forward to checking out the series now since I found this book to be a quick tease leaving me curious to discover what happens next to the characters I was introduced to.
Aggie was looked on as having it all. Being the only offspring of the Alpha werewolf of the Manhattan Pack and destined heir. Though in reality she was faced with many obstacles that some readers could connect to. Having been born with her father wishing she was a boy, dealing with the unhappy separation of her parents, as well as being forced into an arranged marriage.
Determined to face the trials set before her and emerge the victor Aggie takes her life into her own hands and makes some incredibly difficult choices. She’s fighting for everything she holds dear, including a future where she gets to live her life in a manner of her own choosing.
Madison has created a very strong heroine both in body and mind. This story was a smooth read, full of plots that added in the growth of Aggie’s character. Allowing the reader the opportunity to see what adversities and choices she had to face to become the person she is in the Coveted series. Action, romance, and mystery are all combined to give you a well fleshed out story. If you are a fan of Madison’s Coveted series I definitely suggest you read this as I think it will add to the overall experience. If like me you are new to this author I still say go ahead and check this title out. It could quite possibly turn you onto a new series to follow as it happily did for me.
ARC copy provided by Netgalley
This novella focuses on Aggie McClure, the outspoken red-headed sidekick of Natalya Stravinsky, the main character of Coveted. This story is written as a prequel to the series letting the reader in on the events surrounding Aggie’s arrival in South Toms River, New Jersey.
Having not read Coveted yet this was my first time experiencing these characters as well as Madison’s writing. I am looking forward to checking out the series now since I found this book to be a quick tease leaving me curious to discover what happens next to the characters I was introduced to.
Aggie was looked on as having it all. Being the only offspring of the Alpha werewolf of the Manhattan Pack and destined heir. Though in reality she was faced with many obstacles that some readers could connect to. Having been born with her father wishing she was a boy, dealing with the unhappy separation of her parents, as well as being forced into an arranged marriage.
Determined to face the trials set before her and emerge the victor Aggie takes her life into her own hands and makes some incredibly difficult choices. She’s fighting for everything she holds dear, including a future where she gets to live her life in a manner of her own choosing.
Madison has created a very strong heroine both in body and mind. This story was a smooth read, full of plots that added in the growth of Aggie’s character. Allowing the reader the opportunity to see what adversities and choices she had to face to become the person she is in the Coveted series. Action, romance, and mystery are all combined to give you a well fleshed out story. If you are a fan of Madison’s Coveted series I definitely suggest you read this as I think it will add to the overall experience. If like me you are new to this author I still say go ahead and check this title out. It could quite possibly turn you onto a new series to follow as it happily did for me.
ARC copy provided by Netgalley
December 20, 2014
This is a novella set in the Coveted Series. Goodreads numbers it as #0.4, or basically before the main book starts. I haven't read any other books in the Coveted series yet. I got this book through Net Gallery. While browsing their selection, I just really enjoyed the blurb and thought it might be something I might like.
The story opens with Agatha McClure, or Aggie as she is called by her friends, sitting at a bus stop postponing going to her father's penthouse for a mandatory dinner. She knows that he plans on introducing her to his prospective new mate. Never mind that wolves are supposed to mate for life and her mother is alive and well. Since Aggie's mother was unable to give him a male heir, her father had finally put her aside and "severed" their bond. This leave him free to take another mate and try for a son. As pack leader and a very powerful wolf, Mr. McClure always get what he wants and doesn't seem to mind trampling anyone in the way. Little does she know that he is also inviting Aggie's new mate, a wolf she has never met before and who has basically bought Aggie.
Having not read any of the other books in the series, I really didn't know where the author was going to go with this. I mean, obviously from the blurb, this novella is the sidekick of the main character's backstory, but without reading the other I just didn't know what was in store. Can I just say, WOW? Aggie is one tough as nails chick. When she finds out that she has to have a baby, "or else". And her mate starts putting restrictions of everything she does right down to what she eats, Aggie doesn't just get mad. She gets even. She lets nothing stand in her way. Learned that from dear ole' dad I am betting.
I really enjoyed reading about her. I am slightly torn over whether I will enjoy the rest of the series as much since it isn't told through Aggie's POV. Hopefully I will get to see plenty of Aggie and her kick-ass attitude in the rest of the series. I am giving this a solid 3 stars on Goodreads and adding the rest of the series to my TBR pile.
The story opens with Agatha McClure, or Aggie as she is called by her friends, sitting at a bus stop postponing going to her father's penthouse for a mandatory dinner. She knows that he plans on introducing her to his prospective new mate. Never mind that wolves are supposed to mate for life and her mother is alive and well. Since Aggie's mother was unable to give him a male heir, her father had finally put her aside and "severed" their bond. This leave him free to take another mate and try for a son. As pack leader and a very powerful wolf, Mr. McClure always get what he wants and doesn't seem to mind trampling anyone in the way. Little does she know that he is also inviting Aggie's new mate, a wolf she has never met before and who has basically bought Aggie.
Having not read any of the other books in the series, I really didn't know where the author was going to go with this. I mean, obviously from the blurb, this novella is the sidekick of the main character's backstory, but without reading the other I just didn't know what was in store. Can I just say, WOW? Aggie is one tough as nails chick. When she finds out that she has to have a baby, "or else". And her mate starts putting restrictions of everything she does right down to what she eats, Aggie doesn't just get mad. She gets even. She lets nothing stand in her way. Learned that from dear ole' dad I am betting.
I really enjoyed reading about her. I am slightly torn over whether I will enjoy the rest of the series as much since it isn't told through Aggie's POV. Hopefully I will get to see plenty of Aggie and her kick-ass attitude in the rest of the series. I am giving this a solid 3 stars on Goodreads and adding the rest of the series to my TBR pile.
June 15, 2013
Please note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an HONEST review. I really hate when I'm given free reads & then I don't feel like I'm giving as good a review as the publisher probably wanted, but hey - the key is HONESTY.
Bitter Disenchantment, by Shawntelle Madison, is marketed as an Urban Fantasy on her website. I know about her website simply because after I finished this novella I felt like I needed to do a bit of research about the book. I guess I either don't like this genre or I may just be too "Mom" to "get" the genre - but I just didn't like it. The writing style was fine and the editing was fine; but when I close a book & think, "WHAT THE F WAS THAT?!!!????" it's obviously not something I'm going to go back to look for more.
Aggie is a werewolf who has been mated against her wishes by her Alpha - her father. The marriage goes south pretty darn quick; the father ends up being an ass who has obviously entrenched some real issues into his child; and then the book just REALLY goes topsy-turvy after that. It's a 0.4 (Really? 0.4?? That's a new one!) entry to the Coveted series, followed by a 0.5 novella about Natalya and then a full novel about Natalya. All it does is create a lot more questions than I really feel that I care about finding an answer for right now. There's a lot of what is an obvious backstory being created regarding weres and mages and an upcoming epic battle; along with an almost callous disregard for friends' lives. If you were hoping the next story tells you what / why Aggie is so important in the overall scheme of things, I don't think we're going to get that answer since the next novella & book revolve around her friend Natalya.
Needless to say, I was very disenchanted. If you want to get started on the Coveted series, I would HIGHLY recommend that you have the books regarding Natalya right there to read behind Bitter Disenchantment. Maybe you'll find out some answers that I'm too disenchanted to discover.
Bitter Disenchantment, by Shawntelle Madison, is marketed as an Urban Fantasy on her website. I know about her website simply because after I finished this novella I felt like I needed to do a bit of research about the book. I guess I either don't like this genre or I may just be too "Mom" to "get" the genre - but I just didn't like it. The writing style was fine and the editing was fine; but when I close a book & think, "WHAT THE F WAS THAT?!!!????" it's obviously not something I'm going to go back to look for more.
Aggie is a werewolf who has been mated against her wishes by her Alpha - her father. The marriage goes south pretty darn quick; the father ends up being an ass who has obviously entrenched some real issues into his child; and then the book just REALLY goes topsy-turvy after that. It's a 0.4 (Really? 0.4?? That's a new one!) entry to the Coveted series, followed by a 0.5 novella about Natalya and then a full novel about Natalya. All it does is create a lot more questions than I really feel that I care about finding an answer for right now. There's a lot of what is an obvious backstory being created regarding weres and mages and an upcoming epic battle; along with an almost callous disregard for friends' lives. If you were hoping the next story tells you what / why Aggie is so important in the overall scheme of things, I don't think we're going to get that answer since the next novella & book revolve around her friend Natalya.
Needless to say, I was very disenchanted. If you want to get started on the Coveted series, I would HIGHLY recommend that you have the books regarding Natalya right there to read behind Bitter Disenchantment. Maybe you'll find out some answers that I'm too disenchanted to discover.
May 29, 2013
Aggie McClure is heir to the Manhattan pack. Her father is divorcing her mother in a bid to produce a male heir but in the meantime, Aggie must get married. Hoping to choose her own mate, she is shocked to discover her father has arranged a marriage for her. Victor seems OK and at least he indulges Aggie’s fondness for food but things soon change once they’re married and all Aggie’s freedom is taken away.
Bitter Disenchantment is a prequel to Coveted and explains exactly how Aggie came to be at Natalya’s door. The Manhattan pack has an outdated and misogynistic attitude towards the female members. I got a bit annoyed with Aggie at how quickly she went from pissed off at the situation to accepting…but when the marriage turns sour she turns back into a more modern day woman. I think her pack were a bit too obvious in their dominance over the female werewolves. They become the villains rather than complex characters you can really relate to.
I enjoyed the second half of the story more though. Aggie hatches a plan to help both herself and her mother. She starts sneaking out and connecting with others. Having read Coveted, I knew the overall outcome but it still had me turning the page. It’s a decent length novella at approximately 156 pages and worth a read if you’ve been enjoying the series.
I thought it might shed a little more light on Aggie’s eating problems but it did seem that she just enjoyed food. Her werewolf metabolism means she burns it off and she’s not bulimic, yet in the rest of the series, where Natalya suffers from debilitating OCD, the two met because they were sent away to sort out their problems. A werewolf having a healthy appetite does not equal eating disorder; I really didn’t understand why her family sent her away. Other than her father is controlling and selfish, of course.
Bitter Disenchantment is a prequel to Coveted and explains exactly how Aggie came to be at Natalya’s door. The Manhattan pack has an outdated and misogynistic attitude towards the female members. I got a bit annoyed with Aggie at how quickly she went from pissed off at the situation to accepting…but when the marriage turns sour she turns back into a more modern day woman. I think her pack were a bit too obvious in their dominance over the female werewolves. They become the villains rather than complex characters you can really relate to.
I enjoyed the second half of the story more though. Aggie hatches a plan to help both herself and her mother. She starts sneaking out and connecting with others. Having read Coveted, I knew the overall outcome but it still had me turning the page. It’s a decent length novella at approximately 156 pages and worth a read if you’ve been enjoying the series.
I thought it might shed a little more light on Aggie’s eating problems but it did seem that she just enjoyed food. Her werewolf metabolism means she burns it off and she’s not bulimic, yet in the rest of the series, where Natalya suffers from debilitating OCD, the two met because they were sent away to sort out their problems. A werewolf having a healthy appetite does not equal eating disorder; I really didn’t understand why her family sent her away. Other than her father is controlling and selfish, of course.
November 6, 2015
This book is a prequel to Shawntelle Madison's Coveted Series. The link above calls it a novella, and at 172 pages (paperback version), I would consider it more of a short book. Whatever you choose to call it, it is a very engaging read.
Agatha McClure is a very strong willed woman. At dinner with her father one night, she is told that he has arranged a marriage for her, right before the man she is to marry strolls through the door. Needless to say, she is pretty angry. Her husband to be says and does all the right things to woo her, and she thinks it might not be so bad. But the shine wears off the marriage quickly when she finds out that her father and husband expect her to produce an heir within the first 6 months. Which leads to the above mentioned wanting out. She does everything she can to get what she wants.
I loved this book. Aggie is the kind of strong female character that I adore. She knows who she is, what she wants, and will do whatever she needs to to get it. But she is by no means mean or bad tempered. She loves and cares about the people around her strongly. She just doesn't want to be taken advantage of. I respect that.
I felt for her when everyone around her thought she was selfish for wanting out of what from the outside was a dream come true. From the outside, it looks like she is married to a very wealthy man, and she can afford to buy anything she wants. She doesn't have to work. But underneath, there is so much more going on. Her husband has made her a prisoner in her home. He controls everything she eats. He wants her to have babies so he can get everything he was promised. Turns out, her father sold her to her husband in exchange for an heir.
While this book won't be everyone's cup of tea, it is a good book about the sacrifices a person will make to be free to choose their own life.
Agatha McClure is a very strong willed woman. At dinner with her father one night, she is told that he has arranged a marriage for her, right before the man she is to marry strolls through the door. Needless to say, she is pretty angry. Her husband to be says and does all the right things to woo her, and she thinks it might not be so bad. But the shine wears off the marriage quickly when she finds out that her father and husband expect her to produce an heir within the first 6 months. Which leads to the above mentioned wanting out. She does everything she can to get what she wants.
I loved this book. Aggie is the kind of strong female character that I adore. She knows who she is, what she wants, and will do whatever she needs to to get it. But she is by no means mean or bad tempered. She loves and cares about the people around her strongly. She just doesn't want to be taken advantage of. I respect that.
I felt for her when everyone around her thought she was selfish for wanting out of what from the outside was a dream come true. From the outside, it looks like she is married to a very wealthy man, and she can afford to buy anything she wants. She doesn't have to work. But underneath, there is so much more going on. Her husband has made her a prisoner in her home. He controls everything she eats. He wants her to have babies so he can get everything he was promised. Turns out, her father sold her to her husband in exchange for an heir.
While this book won't be everyone's cup of tea, it is a good book about the sacrifices a person will make to be free to choose their own life.
May 15, 2013
Bitter Disenchantment
By Shawntelle Madison
Summary courtesy of Goodreads.com
Werewolf Natalya Stravinsky's outspoken sidekick, Aggie McClure, is featured in this prequel novella. Before Agatha set foot in South Toms River, New Jersey, she had the fight of her life to face. Destined to be the alpha female over her Manhattan pack, Aggie was fully prepared to take on her role until her father arranges a marriage without her consent. She wants out–but the only way is with money–something her new controlling husband won't give her to escape. But such odds never kept a wolf like Aggie down. To sever the twisted tie, she finds herself pitted against raging wood nymphs and backstabbing brownies in an underground supernatural fighting ring. With every victory, the sweet taste of freedom is closer, but her husband isn't willing to let her go that easily. Until the very end, Aggie must fight for the one thing she's never had: a choice.
Review
I really wanted to like this book and was until the author suddenly changed the plot direction. This normally wouldn't be a problem for me, but there really was no follow through in regards to her relationship with Victor until the end of the book.
Hello.... the mans a powerful werewolf, who wants an heir quickly. Is he really going to leave you locked in an apartment alone.... It just didn't make sense.
A very frustrating read
2.5 Stars
By Shawntelle Madison
Summary courtesy of Goodreads.com
Werewolf Natalya Stravinsky's outspoken sidekick, Aggie McClure, is featured in this prequel novella. Before Agatha set foot in South Toms River, New Jersey, she had the fight of her life to face. Destined to be the alpha female over her Manhattan pack, Aggie was fully prepared to take on her role until her father arranges a marriage without her consent. She wants out–but the only way is with money–something her new controlling husband won't give her to escape. But such odds never kept a wolf like Aggie down. To sever the twisted tie, she finds herself pitted against raging wood nymphs and backstabbing brownies in an underground supernatural fighting ring. With every victory, the sweet taste of freedom is closer, but her husband isn't willing to let her go that easily. Until the very end, Aggie must fight for the one thing she's never had: a choice.
Review
I really wanted to like this book and was until the author suddenly changed the plot direction. This normally wouldn't be a problem for me, but there really was no follow through in regards to her relationship with Victor until the end of the book.
Hello.... the mans a powerful werewolf, who wants an heir quickly. Is he really going to leave you locked in an apartment alone.... It just didn't make sense.
A very frustrating read
2.5 Stars
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