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Celtic Wolves #1
Celtic Moon
Like father, like son…
Sophie Thibodeau has been on the run from the father of her son for more than fifteen years. Now her son, Joshua, is changing, and her greatest fears are about to be realized. He’s going to end up being just like his father—a man who can change into a wolf.
Dylan Black has been hunting for Sophie since the night she ran from him—an obsession he cannot afford in the midst of an impending war. Dylan controls Rhuddin Village, an isolated town in Maine where he lives with an ancient Celtic tribe. One of the few of his clan who can still shift into a wolf, he must protect his people from the Guardians, vicious warriors who seek to destroy them.
When Sophie and Dylan come together for the sake of their son, their reunion reignites the fierce passion they once shared. For the first time in years, Dylan’s lost family is within his grasp. But will he lose them all over again? Are Joshua and Sophie strong enough to fight alongside Dylan in battle? Nothing less than the fate of his tribe depends on it…
Sophie Thibodeau has been on the run from the father of her son for more than fifteen years. Now her son, Joshua, is changing, and her greatest fears are about to be realized. He’s going to end up being just like his father—a man who can change into a wolf.
Dylan Black has been hunting for Sophie since the night she ran from him—an obsession he cannot afford in the midst of an impending war. Dylan controls Rhuddin Village, an isolated town in Maine where he lives with an ancient Celtic tribe. One of the few of his clan who can still shift into a wolf, he must protect his people from the Guardians, vicious warriors who seek to destroy them.
When Sophie and Dylan come together for the sake of their son, their reunion reignites the fierce passion they once shared. For the first time in years, Dylan’s lost family is within his grasp. But will he lose them all over again? Are Joshua and Sophie strong enough to fight alongside Dylan in battle? Nothing less than the fate of his tribe depends on it…
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 24, 2013
32 people are currently reading
1223 people want to read
About the author
Jan DeLima
5 books287 followersJan lives in central Maine with her husband and their two teenage sons. In the spring and summer months, when she's not tucked away in her office with two English bulldogs, she can be found in her garden.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
January 6, 2018
I really liked this book. The writer took an original starting point to becoming a werewolf. Apparently they were made by a goddess to protect Guardians. But the Guardians were misnamed because they don’t guard anything but themselves and their evil doings.
Enter a fresh young naive girl. She falls in love with the werewolf leader and becomes pregnant. When she discovers the truth of her true love she runs in terror. 16 years later she stops running.
This is a good story and beginning of what looks like a thrilling and original werewolf saga.
Enter a fresh young naive girl. She falls in love with the werewolf leader and becomes pregnant. When she discovers the truth of her true love she runs in terror. 16 years later she stops running.
This is a good story and beginning of what looks like a thrilling and original werewolf saga.
June 22, 2020
Surprisingly good.
I sometimes pick up obscure, never heard of books on a whim and on occasion it does pay off. I mean, it’s not as if no one’s heard of this book, but I didn’t see any reviews/ratings by friends so I was going in blind.
I really wanted some paranormal romance with shifters/witches/any supernatural creature & some cool manufactured history weaved into it. This book had it all, plus a strong female lead. All around winner.
I can’t say that the plot was unique or mind blowing but it did the job. I think it was the writing style that kept me hooked most of all. It was just my thing.. that’s the best explanation I can come up with.
I sometimes pick up obscure, never heard of books on a whim and on occasion it does pay off. I mean, it’s not as if no one’s heard of this book, but I didn’t see any reviews/ratings by friends so I was going in blind.
I really wanted some paranormal romance with shifters/witches/any supernatural creature & some cool manufactured history weaved into it. This book had it all, plus a strong female lead. All around winner.
I can’t say that the plot was unique or mind blowing but it did the job. I think it was the writing style that kept me hooked most of all. It was just my thing.. that’s the best explanation I can come up with.
February 10, 2017
I am not usually a fan of secret baby stories, and while Celtic Moon isn’t necessarily that, it’s a close second. It would be easy to dislike a heroine that left her baby’s father and deprived him of his child, but in this case, I admired Sophie for doing that. Fear of the unknown could have ruled her, and she could have stayed simply because she knew nothing of his world. Instead of cowering to his threats, she went on the run to remove her son from what she perceived to be a bad situation. She devoted her life to learning how to better keep him safe and teaching him to fend for himself if it came to that. She was very strong and determined, and I liked her. I had a bit of a harder time with Dylan. I have to remind myself when reading shifter books that wolves, by nature, are very dominant. I try not to judge them by human standards, but Dylan may have been just a bit too heavy handed for me, especially in the way he revealed his shifter side to Sophie and essentially demanded she accept it. He did, however, learn the error of his ways, and it was hard not to feel his pain, because it was clear how much he cared for Sophie and his son. The romance between him and Sophie was a bit glossed over. It was like a switch – one moment she couldn’t trust him and was determined she wasn’t his wife, and then the next she was all in. I would have liked there to be a bit more build up to their reunion.
A little more world building could have enhanced this story and given the reader a clearer picture of Dylan’s world, geographically and pertaining to his pack. But I am hopeful that the author is pacing us, and more will be revealed as the series progresses. While what we’ve learned so far was interesting, it just whetted my appetite for more. The highlight of this book was Dylan’s brother and sister, Luc and Elen, as well as their pack mate Cormack. We’ve been given little morsels of each of them, and I’m excited to dive into their histories. The action scenes in this book were also very well done, and it was easy to picture what was happening.
While Celtic Moon had its shaky moments, it was an intriguing start to the Celtic Wolves series. I can’t wait to read the next book!
This review was originally posted at Badass Book Reviews.
A little more world building could have enhanced this story and given the reader a clearer picture of Dylan’s world, geographically and pertaining to his pack. But I am hopeful that the author is pacing us, and more will be revealed as the series progresses. While what we’ve learned so far was interesting, it just whetted my appetite for more. The highlight of this book was Dylan’s brother and sister, Luc and Elen, as well as their pack mate Cormack. We’ve been given little morsels of each of them, and I’m excited to dive into their histories. The action scenes in this book were also very well done, and it was easy to picture what was happening.
While Celtic Moon had its shaky moments, it was an intriguing start to the Celtic Wolves series. I can’t wait to read the next book!
This review was originally posted at Badass Book Reviews.
August 19, 2020
This is my first book by this author and I really enjoyed it. It is a fantasy book and just what I needed right now. I loved the main characters and the legends alluded to during the story. It is part of a trilogy and I will definitely read the other two books. Highly recommended for fantasy fans or anyone looking for a good escape.
July 26, 2017
I stand by Wyrdness' review:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
I'm less generous with rating as I expected (read wanted) more grovelling from the hero and, well, given past and present lies I did really wish the heroine stood strong a little longer :)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
I'm less generous with rating as I expected (read wanted) more grovelling from the hero and, well, given past and present lies I did really wish the heroine stood strong a little longer :)
August 26, 2017
I can't freaking believe! Finally! Finally, after I don't even know how many crappy books, one that is totally awesome! :D
I loved Celtic Moon!
I loved the fact Sophie Thibodeaux, the heroine, was such a strong woman, who wasn't afraid of kicking ass and taking names, and who did everything for her son Joshua.
I understood her position, why she ran away from Dylan, the hero, and why she spent 15 years on the run from him.
In fact, I think I would have done just the same thing.
Dylan wasn't really my kind of guy. He was too overbearing and demanding for my tastes, plus I don't like to be lied to or kept in the dark, just like Sophie.
I very much preferred Luc, his younger brother. He is a mysterious guy and I can't resist a big sexy mystery. LMAO
Moving on, let's not forget the fact poor Sophie was ill-treated at Dylan's home by a lot of his people, so of course she feared the same would happen to her son, or even worse.
But all that is in the past, since she decided to come back because of her son, Joshua.
I loved him too. He was such a carefree, funny guy. I loved his relationship with Sophie. You could really see they loved each other and, in a sick way, I loved the fact he always looked up to Sophie first.
It happens in a lot of books that when the son is finally reunited with the father, the poor mother always gets the second place in his life, thus losing him in some way.
Serves you right, Dylan! You will never be more important to Joshua than Sophie! :P
Anyway, I don't know if this series is going to be like the Black Dagger Brotherhood, for example, when we have different main characters in each book, but I hope it is like that and that Joshua gets his own book.
Another character about whom I would love to read more is Taliesin aka Sin aka Matthew.
He was such a surprising mix of naiveté and worldliness and knowledge.
Sometimes he seemed to be a little boy, like when he was excited about Sophie making pizza, and other times he seemed so ruthless.
But one thing is certain. He has a certain sadness about him. I want him to be happy.
I have only one more thing to say - was that foreshadowing I detected in Taliesin's words about a future
If it was, oh boy, this is going to be good.
July 1, 2014
A lucky random pick. At last a good new werewolf world. The world building here was stellar. This was a well thought out complex world. There were a lot of different elements suck as only those who were born equally wolf/man being acceptable to the ruling class. All the others those born human who could shift to wolf and those born wolf who couldn't shift to human being either killed or enslaved by the rulers called Guardians. In this world you have to be born a werewolf not changed and there hasn't been a werewolf born in 300 years. So of course the heroine's son throws things into a bit of chaos.
This book starts in the middle of the story. The heroine, Sophie, has been on the run from her werewolf husband, Dyland, for 15 years with their son whom he knows about but has never met. She ran on the night that she was shown that Dylan was a shifter and he told her that he would take her child from her if she ever tried to leave. So she ran.
She has been on the run for 15 years and really I kept getting flashes of Sara Conner. She's turned herself into this super bad ass fighter chick and has brought her son up the same way. She has to return to Dylan though when she realizes that Joshua will be a shifter too and is going to need his father's help.
In addition to great action, and great world building I loved the love story. Because they were reuniting lovers there wasn't an unbelievable insta love element to get over. They had both made mistakes and were willing to try harder and differently this time. Well drawn secondary characters really rounded out the story. I am totally looking forward to the next one.
This book starts in the middle of the story. The heroine, Sophie, has been on the run from her werewolf husband, Dyland, for 15 years with their son whom he knows about but has never met. She ran on the night that she was shown that Dylan was a shifter and he told her that he would take her child from her if she ever tried to leave. So she ran.
She has been on the run for 15 years and really I kept getting flashes of Sara Conner. She's turned herself into this super bad ass fighter chick and has brought her son up the same way. She has to return to Dylan though when she realizes that Joshua will be a shifter too and is going to need his father's help.
In addition to great action, and great world building I loved the love story. Because they were reuniting lovers there wasn't an unbelievable insta love element to get over. They had both made mistakes and were willing to try harder and differently this time. Well drawn secondary characters really rounded out the story. I am totally looking forward to the next one.
February 7, 2018
Pretty good shifter romance from a new to me author. I will read more in the series.
September 23, 2013
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads
I’m not sure if this is a new trend in Paranormal Romance but more and more titles have been featuring “older” heroines and Celtic Moon falls into that category with Sophie, a 36 year old protagonist. Thibodeau doesn’t just stand out because of her age, she also brings to the table something that a lot of female characters lack: experience. You can’t help but admire a woman that’s willing to put her fears aside in order to do right by her child; even if it means confronting the man that she’s been running from for over fifteen years. My respect for her continued to increase with every new page I read because Sophie not only learned from her previous mistakes but actually took steps to ensure that she’d never be a victim again.
Two of my favourite things come together in this book: werewolves and Celtic mythology. Both elements are closely intertwined in this story and I loved how rich the lore was as a result. The author incorporates a few very unique components which helped it stand-out from other comparable titles in this genre. It’s been weeks since I finished reading Celtic Moon and yet, I’m still thinking about the extremely memorable “serpent” weapon. I’d be curious to find out whether its origins stem from historical facts or are the imaginings of a very talented author. Either way, I approve! In my opinion, this first installment is only the tip of the iceberg where the Celtic Wolves are concerned!
DeLima allows readers to make up their own minds about what actually happened fifteen years ago by presenting the facts from three very different perspectives. I really enjoyed weighing each character’s viewpoint and drawing my own conclusions; even though I knew what the end result was going to be, I still appreciated the process. This book has a real story within a story feel to it which makes it as fulfilling as it is entertaining. I also liked that the author didn’t rush the romance and gave the characters time to adjust. There may be danger on the horizon but that’s still no excuse for jumping in bed with your ex!
Celtic Moon is not your average werewolf book thanks the Jan Delima’s distinctive layered writing style, original mythology and unlikely heroine. A brilliant effort by this debut author!
I’m not sure if this is a new trend in Paranormal Romance but more and more titles have been featuring “older” heroines and Celtic Moon falls into that category with Sophie, a 36 year old protagonist. Thibodeau doesn’t just stand out because of her age, she also brings to the table something that a lot of female characters lack: experience. You can’t help but admire a woman that’s willing to put her fears aside in order to do right by her child; even if it means confronting the man that she’s been running from for over fifteen years. My respect for her continued to increase with every new page I read because Sophie not only learned from her previous mistakes but actually took steps to ensure that she’d never be a victim again.
Two of my favourite things come together in this book: werewolves and Celtic mythology. Both elements are closely intertwined in this story and I loved how rich the lore was as a result. The author incorporates a few very unique components which helped it stand-out from other comparable titles in this genre. It’s been weeks since I finished reading Celtic Moon and yet, I’m still thinking about the extremely memorable “serpent” weapon. I’d be curious to find out whether its origins stem from historical facts or are the imaginings of a very talented author. Either way, I approve! In my opinion, this first installment is only the tip of the iceberg where the Celtic Wolves are concerned!
DeLima allows readers to make up their own minds about what actually happened fifteen years ago by presenting the facts from three very different perspectives. I really enjoyed weighing each character’s viewpoint and drawing my own conclusions; even though I knew what the end result was going to be, I still appreciated the process. This book has a real story within a story feel to it which makes it as fulfilling as it is entertaining. I also liked that the author didn’t rush the romance and gave the characters time to adjust. There may be danger on the horizon but that’s still no excuse for jumping in bed with your ex!
Celtic Moon is not your average werewolf book thanks the Jan Delima’s distinctive layered writing style, original mythology and unlikely heroine. A brilliant effort by this debut author!
October 26, 2013
4.75stars actually
Who says you can't teach an alpha wolf new tricks? When Sophie Thibodeaux ran away from Dylan Black fifteen years ago, she was frightened, pregnant and injured. Sophie didn't understand Dylan's overprotective actions and she didn't know he was keeping a secret from her. When he showed her he was a shape-shifter and their child should be raised with him it was too much for her and she left, getting injured in the process. Dylan now knows he could have handled things better to ensure his family's well-being. Joshua has been changing lately and Sophie realizes Joshua has inherited Dylan's shifter genes and she is ill-equipped to help him through this phase of his life, so she contacts Dylan.
The reunion for this family unit had the right amount of tension for this situation. Old truths and hurts come to light as Sophie fiercely protects their son. For his part, Dylan doesn't repeat the mistakes of the past and explains things to Sophie as he never did before so that she understands both his actions and what is at stake. Dylan's been protecting those of his race that are unable to shift from his race's powerful governing body, Guardians. The Guardians have discovered Dylan's enclave and plan to kill those it sees as traitors in addition to those with shifter genes that cannot shift and they don't plan to spare the humans in the meantime. Dylan has to choose to protect either his family or his clan. I really liked both Sophie and Dylan individually and adored them as a couple. Joshua was pivotal to the family unit and the storyline, his voice added to the richness of both as his bonds with his extended family grew.
There was so much for me to like in this exciting origin story from a debut writer. The only things I would have changed is the writing style which was a bit formal for my taste and the flashbacks of which I'm not a fan. Both were minor hindsight. Also the male lead here is named Dylan. Really?!?!? He is thousands of years old! All of the characters were likable, well defined and fully fleshed. The pacing, plotting and storyline were perfectly presented. I enjoyed the romance, action, and dramatic suspense pieces that were expertly woven together so well. I am very much on board for the next entry and am already chafing at the delay.
Who says you can't teach an alpha wolf new tricks? When Sophie Thibodeaux ran away from Dylan Black fifteen years ago, she was frightened, pregnant and injured. Sophie didn't understand Dylan's overprotective actions and she didn't know he was keeping a secret from her. When he showed her he was a shape-shifter and their child should be raised with him it was too much for her and she left, getting injured in the process. Dylan now knows he could have handled things better to ensure his family's well-being. Joshua has been changing lately and Sophie realizes Joshua has inherited Dylan's shifter genes and she is ill-equipped to help him through this phase of his life, so she contacts Dylan.
The reunion for this family unit had the right amount of tension for this situation. Old truths and hurts come to light as Sophie fiercely protects their son. For his part, Dylan doesn't repeat the mistakes of the past and explains things to Sophie as he never did before so that she understands both his actions and what is at stake. Dylan's been protecting those of his race that are unable to shift from his race's powerful governing body, Guardians. The Guardians have discovered Dylan's enclave and plan to kill those it sees as traitors in addition to those with shifter genes that cannot shift and they don't plan to spare the humans in the meantime. Dylan has to choose to protect either his family or his clan. I really liked both Sophie and Dylan individually and adored them as a couple. Joshua was pivotal to the family unit and the storyline, his voice added to the richness of both as his bonds with his extended family grew.
There was so much for me to like in this exciting origin story from a debut writer. The only things I would have changed is the writing style which was a bit formal for my taste and the flashbacks of which I'm not a fan. Both were minor hindsight. Also the male lead here is named Dylan. Really?!?!? He is thousands of years old! All of the characters were likable, well defined and fully fleshed. The pacing, plotting and storyline were perfectly presented. I enjoyed the romance, action, and dramatic suspense pieces that were expertly woven together so well. I am very much on board for the next entry and am already chafing at the delay.
March 6, 2015
It's been a long time since I've been so captivated with a paranormal romance. Starting with a bang, Celtic Moon offers readers a unique take on the werewolf mythology coupled with an engrossing storyline. Relying heavily on Celtic origins, the story integrates shifters, malevolent Guardians, and even gods. But now I’m getting ahead of myself...
Celtic Moon is simply a good story and wonderful romance. Having discovered the true nature of her lover and father of her unborn child, Sophie ran from Dylan and kept herself and their son hidden for 16 years. However, now that Joshua is showing signs that he inherited more than his father's good looks and charming smile, Sophie realizes she must return to Dylan and his people for help. What she does not realize is that the real danger comes not from Dylan, but those who seek to destroy what he has made for himself.
The tale of reunited lovers who remained faithful to one another despite the odds they’d be together again was touching, steamy, and emotionally satisfying. I enjoyed seeing the changes in both characters, as they have matured and learned to be more accepting. Toss in the fierce love for their son, Sophie and Dylan have wonderful chemistry and their tale is exciting to read.
Ms. DeLima does an excellent job building her world without overwhelming the reader. The storytelling has just the right balance of fast-paced action and quieter, reflective moments. While the romance is probably my favorite part of the book, the story of the Guardians and Dylan’s attempts to keep his people safe is gripping and engrossing. I was immediately drawn in and excited to find out what will happen next.
Overall, Celtic Moon is a highly enjoyable and entertaining story. Ms. DeLima is weaves a wonderful tale and interesting world. The characters are interesting and the romance is sweet yet sexy. While the book is a complete story, it sets up conflict for future titles, and I for one am looking forward to reading it!
My rating: A-, Enjoyed A Lot
I won this book from the author at Coastal Magic Con.
Celtic Moon is simply a good story and wonderful romance. Having discovered the true nature of her lover and father of her unborn child, Sophie ran from Dylan and kept herself and their son hidden for 16 years. However, now that Joshua is showing signs that he inherited more than his father's good looks and charming smile, Sophie realizes she must return to Dylan and his people for help. What she does not realize is that the real danger comes not from Dylan, but those who seek to destroy what he has made for himself.
The tale of reunited lovers who remained faithful to one another despite the odds they’d be together again was touching, steamy, and emotionally satisfying. I enjoyed seeing the changes in both characters, as they have matured and learned to be more accepting. Toss in the fierce love for their son, Sophie and Dylan have wonderful chemistry and their tale is exciting to read.
Ms. DeLima does an excellent job building her world without overwhelming the reader. The storytelling has just the right balance of fast-paced action and quieter, reflective moments. While the romance is probably my favorite part of the book, the story of the Guardians and Dylan’s attempts to keep his people safe is gripping and engrossing. I was immediately drawn in and excited to find out what will happen next.
Overall, Celtic Moon is a highly enjoyable and entertaining story. Ms. DeLima is weaves a wonderful tale and interesting world. The characters are interesting and the romance is sweet yet sexy. While the book is a complete story, it sets up conflict for future titles, and I for one am looking forward to reading it!
My rating: A-, Enjoyed A Lot
I won this book from the author at Coastal Magic Con.
February 9, 2015
Enjoyable though I would have liked a little more background and world building and a better build up to the second chance romance. The first half was really good then it all sort of leveled off and the romance fizzled a bit. I enjoyed Sophie, her obvious dedication to their son, and to not ever being a victim again. I did have issues with Dylan not knowing his pack was abusing Sophie. There were signs and he chose to ignore them. I do have book two and have heard the romance is more prevalent so am looking forward to reading.
October 3, 2014
Let's talk about the gay.
(There will be no spoilers, don't worry).
For the most part, I think what DeLima was trying to do was break some of the urban fantasy stereotypes - we have an older-than-usual heroine who can handle herself, and an overprotective male love interest whose over-protectiveness is explained and accepted as rational and reasonable. I can accept all of that, that's perfectly fine.
What is really NOT fine with me is that the only instance of an LGBT character is a villain.
Look, this is a big deal, okay? Lots and lots and LOTS of books have NO LGBT characters at all. That's actually, imo, better than having your only example be one of the bad guys. And I keep trying to understand why DeLima did it, and I can't get anywhere. Why, in the last three pages of a book, would you reveal that one of the villains is gay? What's the point, except to demonize being gay?
It's not that only good guys can be gay, that would be ridiculous. But if you're going to have LGBT characters, sprinkle them around on BOTH sides of your moral conflict - some good, some bad. That's fine. But having just one, and that one being a bad guy, is a pretty clear message that you think gay = evil, or at least bad.
I have no idea whether DeLima intended this or not, obviously. But it's turned my 'meh' on an book of pretty average quality into outright anger. I'll be sticking clear of this author in future.
(There will be no spoilers, don't worry).
For the most part, I think what DeLima was trying to do was break some of the urban fantasy stereotypes - we have an older-than-usual heroine who can handle herself, and an overprotective male love interest whose over-protectiveness is explained and accepted as rational and reasonable. I can accept all of that, that's perfectly fine.
What is really NOT fine with me is that the only instance of an LGBT character is a villain.
Look, this is a big deal, okay? Lots and lots and LOTS of books have NO LGBT characters at all. That's actually, imo, better than having your only example be one of the bad guys. And I keep trying to understand why DeLima did it, and I can't get anywhere. Why, in the last three pages of a book, would you reveal that one of the villains is gay? What's the point, except to demonize being gay?
It's not that only good guys can be gay, that would be ridiculous. But if you're going to have LGBT characters, sprinkle them around on BOTH sides of your moral conflict - some good, some bad. That's fine. But having just one, and that one being a bad guy, is a pretty clear message that you think gay = evil, or at least bad.
I have no idea whether DeLima intended this or not, obviously. But it's turned my 'meh' on an book of pretty average quality into outright anger. I'll be sticking clear of this author in future.
January 24, 2015
I absolutely loved this book. I loved the world building, I loved the characters, I loved the whole thing. I could not put the book down, and it goes straight to my faves shelf.
I've fallen in love with Ms DeLima's writing and world building. Her characters are strong and you can't help but connect with them. There were a lot of "awwww" moments, some incredibly sad moments, and the pace of the plot was strong. I've smiled, I've laughed, I've been at the edge of my seat and I've cried. This book has "everything" and I'm incredibly happy I have the next book in the series - moving on from this world and to a new one... an impossible task right now. This is one of those books you'll never forget.
I've fallen in love with Ms DeLima's writing and world building. Her characters are strong and you can't help but connect with them. There were a lot of "awwww" moments, some incredibly sad moments, and the pace of the plot was strong. I've smiled, I've laughed, I've been at the edge of my seat and I've cried. This book has "everything" and I'm incredibly happy I have the next book in the series - moving on from this world and to a new one... an impossible task right now. This is one of those books you'll never forget.
October 15, 2013
4.5 Stars!!!
I am always in search of a good shifters series and I have to say, I really liked this first book of this series.
I read an interview by this debut author where she was asked what the hardest (most emotional) part of the story that really stuck with her. She responded, the part where Sophie brings Joshua (her son) back and meets her husband after being on the run for the first time in 16 years. She said it was very intense and she enjoyed writing that.
I have to agree with her....as a reader it was intense. We are drawn into these characters lives and become interested in them right away. I would say that this is one of the strengths of this writer. When a character is hurt emotionally, injured or killed...we feel the pain as a reader.
The pace at which the story unfolds is nice....slow enough to figure out what is going without too much of an info dump and fast enough to keep you turning the page. I had trouble putting it down. I wanted to know what happens next.
It is the story of a woman, Sophie, who meets, falls in love with a wolf shifter (Dylan) who is leader of his pack in the deep woods of Maine. He believes they are married (his ceremony) and she is pregnant. He takes her into the woods and shifts in front of her for the first time...his way of breaking the news that he is not human. Once he does that he tells her she can not leave...not even for her father's funeral...can't leave knowing the truth about them. She runs and never looks back.
She spends 15 years on the run, hiding from her husband, raising her son until he starts exhibiting some strange behavior. She decides that for the good of her son, she needs to contact Dylan...and decides to return to the pack. But this woman who is returning is not the young, naive, accepting girl who left here 16 years ago. She is a 36 year old mature, smart and with a "not going to take it" attitude.
She battles her strong feelings for Dylan as she sees the father/son bond grow...knowing it is what is best for her son, Joshua. She knows in her heart that he will want to stay here and that she will not leave as long as he wants to stay. But each contact with Dylan is painful because she is fighting her attraction and emotional bond with this man (shifter).
Sofia returns at a time where the pack of shifters is in a bit of a pickle. This is a part of the story which is difficult to stay on top of. According to Celtic Mythology, the whole shifter society/politics/history is explained to us in the book as it is explained to Joshua. This group of shifter "Guardians" is coming after the pack and Dylan is trying to create a shifter alliance to fight them. He has to deal with traitors, and trying to figure out how he can keep his family safe once the Guardians know they are his biggest vulnerability. This whole storyline ends with a crazy battle...lots of action.
I really enjoyed this book, found a little thing that bothered me...This shifter, Dylan, was supposed to be hundreds of years old but insisted his name was Dylan....that name is not hundreds of years old....Alot of authors do this. They have a character who comes from a different world or country and name them something like, "Dakota." I looked past it as many of the other shifters had very old names.
I also think some of the "Old world" names of groups and of their Celtic mythology was hard to remember and follow. Some of my favorite novels have done this, so I looked past it because everything else in this book was so well done. The characters were so strong and the story so natural and believable. The emotions, whether they were love, pride or anger and hurt were so real that I felt them that this left me finished with a big smile on my face wishing book #2 was ready to read.
The author's website states that Luc's book is next....can't wait.
I am always in search of a good shifters series and I have to say, I really liked this first book of this series.
I read an interview by this debut author where she was asked what the hardest (most emotional) part of the story that really stuck with her. She responded, the part where Sophie brings Joshua (her son) back and meets her husband after being on the run for the first time in 16 years. She said it was very intense and she enjoyed writing that.
I have to agree with her....as a reader it was intense. We are drawn into these characters lives and become interested in them right away. I would say that this is one of the strengths of this writer. When a character is hurt emotionally, injured or killed...we feel the pain as a reader.
The pace at which the story unfolds is nice....slow enough to figure out what is going without too much of an info dump and fast enough to keep you turning the page. I had trouble putting it down. I wanted to know what happens next.
It is the story of a woman, Sophie, who meets, falls in love with a wolf shifter (Dylan) who is leader of his pack in the deep woods of Maine. He believes they are married (his ceremony) and she is pregnant. He takes her into the woods and shifts in front of her for the first time...his way of breaking the news that he is not human. Once he does that he tells her she can not leave...not even for her father's funeral...can't leave knowing the truth about them. She runs and never looks back.
She spends 15 years on the run, hiding from her husband, raising her son until he starts exhibiting some strange behavior. She decides that for the good of her son, she needs to contact Dylan...and decides to return to the pack. But this woman who is returning is not the young, naive, accepting girl who left here 16 years ago. She is a 36 year old mature, smart and with a "not going to take it" attitude.
She battles her strong feelings for Dylan as she sees the father/son bond grow...knowing it is what is best for her son, Joshua. She knows in her heart that he will want to stay here and that she will not leave as long as he wants to stay. But each contact with Dylan is painful because she is fighting her attraction and emotional bond with this man (shifter).
Sofia returns at a time where the pack of shifters is in a bit of a pickle. This is a part of the story which is difficult to stay on top of. According to Celtic Mythology, the whole shifter society/politics/history is explained to us in the book as it is explained to Joshua. This group of shifter "Guardians" is coming after the pack and Dylan is trying to create a shifter alliance to fight them. He has to deal with traitors, and trying to figure out how he can keep his family safe once the Guardians know they are his biggest vulnerability. This whole storyline ends with a crazy battle...lots of action.
I really enjoyed this book, found a little thing that bothered me...This shifter, Dylan, was supposed to be hundreds of years old but insisted his name was Dylan....that name is not hundreds of years old....Alot of authors do this. They have a character who comes from a different world or country and name them something like, "Dakota." I looked past it as many of the other shifters had very old names.
I also think some of the "Old world" names of groups and of their Celtic mythology was hard to remember and follow. Some of my favorite novels have done this, so I looked past it because everything else in this book was so well done. The characters were so strong and the story so natural and believable. The emotions, whether they were love, pride or anger and hurt were so real that I felt them that this left me finished with a big smile on my face wishing book #2 was ready to read.
The author's website states that Luc's book is next....can't wait.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2015
I LOVED THIS BOOK.
I expected to hate this book! It has a theme I HATE. For some reason I decided to try it anyway because I'm crazy. I AM SO GLAD I LOST MY MIND AND TRIED THIS BOOK!
This review is gonna be all over the place because I suck at collecting my thoughts on books I love!
Like I said above the hero and heroine have been separated for 15 years. In this time they both remained COMPLETELY celibate. Like, never even remotely looked at anyone else in that time. I love when a book does mates properly! I loved this couple so much. They both made mistakes, and there was a lot of heart break there but they loved each other so much. They both knew they couldn't forget the past but I loved how they were mature enough to face what happened and move on. I will say the scene where hurt, like a hell of a lot.
Okay. So something happens in this book that seriously shattered my heart. Spoilery and one of the most heartbreaking quotes I've ever read in a book below,
Kill. Me.
The sad thing is I have to skip book 2 in this series, as much as I love Luc, his book is BUT I NEED BOOK 3 SOOOO BAD! It's
So this review is a hot mess and all over the place but basically I loved this book so much!
I expected to hate this book! It has a theme I HATE. For some reason I decided to try it anyway because I'm crazy. I AM SO GLAD I LOST MY MIND AND TRIED THIS BOOK!
This review is gonna be all over the place because I suck at collecting my thoughts on books I love!
Like I said above the hero and heroine have been separated for 15 years. In this time they both remained COMPLETELY celibate. Like, never even remotely looked at anyone else in that time. I love when a book does mates properly! I loved this couple so much. They both made mistakes, and there was a lot of heart break there but they loved each other so much. They both knew they couldn't forget the past but I loved how they were mature enough to face what happened and move on. I will say the scene where hurt, like a hell of a lot.
Okay. So something happens in this book that seriously shattered my heart. Spoilery and one of the most heartbreaking quotes I've ever read in a book below,
Kill. Me.
The sad thing is I have to skip book 2 in this series, as much as I love Luc, his book is BUT I NEED BOOK 3 SOOOO BAD! It's
So this review is a hot mess and all over the place but basically I loved this book so much!
September 16, 2013
My full review: http://coffeecookiesandchilipeppers.b...
The first thing that struck me about Celtic Moon was the choice of protagonist. Sophie is rather unusual for the Urban Fantasy / Paranormal Romance that I have read because she is already a relatively mature woman. I say ‘relatively’ because she is quite a bit younger than me and I do not like thinking of myself as ‘older’ or ‘mature’! Not only is she in her mid to late thirties, but also she has already found the love of her life and had his child. She is well beyond the Happy Ever After that comes at the end of traditional Romance novels and living a normal life with all the associated difficult bits. In fact, the only near perfect aspect of her life is that she has such great relationships with her son and mother.
I was both intrigued and delighted by Sophie and her dilemmas. I am not a great fan of chick lit or general Romance titles, so I enjoyed reading about a woman who has to deal with more than just romantic angst and whether or not her nail varnish matches her handbag. Sophie has big, real life issues to overcome and she does it with great grit and determination. This is where Jan really sold me her book: Sophie is a strong woman throughout the whole story. I have grown to really rather hate those ‘strong’ female protagonists that are repeatedly described as such right up until the moment that the male hero turns up to save her from all the big, bad monsters and sweep her off her feet. If a woman is strong then she will remain so even if she has a man around to help out with fighting the coming apocalypse. Buffy the Vampire Slayer has male friends and helpers, but she is always as good as, if not better than, them in a straight fight against the Big Bad. She is the type of strong female that I can appreciate and empathize with and Sophie has a slight touch of Buffy about her.
The first thing that struck me about Celtic Moon was the choice of protagonist. Sophie is rather unusual for the Urban Fantasy / Paranormal Romance that I have read because she is already a relatively mature woman. I say ‘relatively’ because she is quite a bit younger than me and I do not like thinking of myself as ‘older’ or ‘mature’! Not only is she in her mid to late thirties, but also she has already found the love of her life and had his child. She is well beyond the Happy Ever After that comes at the end of traditional Romance novels and living a normal life with all the associated difficult bits. In fact, the only near perfect aspect of her life is that she has such great relationships with her son and mother.
I was both intrigued and delighted by Sophie and her dilemmas. I am not a great fan of chick lit or general Romance titles, so I enjoyed reading about a woman who has to deal with more than just romantic angst and whether or not her nail varnish matches her handbag. Sophie has big, real life issues to overcome and she does it with great grit and determination. This is where Jan really sold me her book: Sophie is a strong woman throughout the whole story. I have grown to really rather hate those ‘strong’ female protagonists that are repeatedly described as such right up until the moment that the male hero turns up to save her from all the big, bad monsters and sweep her off her feet. If a woman is strong then she will remain so even if she has a man around to help out with fighting the coming apocalypse. Buffy the Vampire Slayer has male friends and helpers, but she is always as good as, if not better than, them in a straight fight against the Big Bad. She is the type of strong female that I can appreciate and empathize with and Sophie has a slight touch of Buffy about her.
October 28, 2014
This was a lovely story that straddles the line between PNR and UF. On the surface it's a PNR about love and family, but it's all held together with the compelling plot point of a group of shifters just wanting freedom and peace from a self-appointed, overbearing and corrupted council of rulers.
I liked all the characters because they acted like people with logical motivations. I especially liked the main characters of Sophie and Dylan. They start out with some major issues with each other, but throughout the novel they talk about their problems and soon understand a lot of it is built on past misunderstandings and a lack of trust. It was truly refreshing to read about adults responding to situations like adults instead of brash and hot-headed teenagers. I also like that for both of these characters family is deeply important and they would do anything to protect them. Not just in the usual "I'm a badass with improbable training" ways, but through sucking up their pride and enduring things they aren't entirely comfortable with for the sake of others. That's what makes a strong character to me.
I found the writing style to be fluid and easy to read and the pace set never felt too rushed or too plodding for me. In fact I read 70% of the book in one evening without even noticing the time was passing, and only stopped when I felt my eyes turn in to gritty marbles and was too tired to continue.
I'd heartily recommend this to anyone who wants to read about strong women demonstrating love for their family, alpha males who can demonstrate leadership and strength without being jerks, and for anyone who wants a good old tale of "good" vs "evil" and hope and love lighting the way through darkness.
I liked all the characters because they acted like people with logical motivations. I especially liked the main characters of Sophie and Dylan. They start out with some major issues with each other, but throughout the novel they talk about their problems and soon understand a lot of it is built on past misunderstandings and a lack of trust. It was truly refreshing to read about adults responding to situations like adults instead of brash and hot-headed teenagers. I also like that for both of these characters family is deeply important and they would do anything to protect them. Not just in the usual "I'm a badass with improbable training" ways, but through sucking up their pride and enduring things they aren't entirely comfortable with for the sake of others. That's what makes a strong character to me.
I found the writing style to be fluid and easy to read and the pace set never felt too rushed or too plodding for me. In fact I read 70% of the book in one evening without even noticing the time was passing, and only stopped when I felt my eyes turn in to gritty marbles and was too tired to continue.
I'd heartily recommend this to anyone who wants to read about strong women demonstrating love for their family, alpha males who can demonstrate leadership and strength without being jerks, and for anyone who wants a good old tale of "good" vs "evil" and hope and love lighting the way through darkness.
did-not-finish
November 17, 2013How do I say this nicely...? This book is not for me.
I hate reading romances where the hero and/or heroine are parents. Most books where that happens lack sexual tension and fun, and this book was no different. I had reservations going in about that, due to my preferences, but I was ready to ignore because the beginning didn't have that parent vibe that typically turns me away.
Good start. Terribly boring middle. No desire to read the last 25%. Why? Because the parents are back together. There was no sexual tension to make me root for the couple. The only tension was from distrust, and apparently, sixteen years of hard feelings were easy to drop in less than a week. Sex cures all, folks.
Romance did not work for me at all. Did not seem realistic. Did not pull me in. Did not make me care whatsoever.
I'd rant about other things in this book, but I'd rather just start reading something that I will enjoy.
I hate reading romances where the hero and/or heroine are parents. Most books where that happens lack sexual tension and fun, and this book was no different. I had reservations going in about that, due to my preferences, but I was ready to ignore because the beginning didn't have that parent vibe that typically turns me away.
Good start. Terribly boring middle. No desire to read the last 25%. Why? Because the parents are back together. There was no sexual tension to make me root for the couple. The only tension was from distrust, and apparently, sixteen years of hard feelings were easy to drop in less than a week. Sex cures all, folks.
Romance did not work for me at all. Did not seem realistic. Did not pull me in. Did not make me care whatsoever.
I'd rant about other things in this book, but I'd rather just start reading something that I will enjoy.
March 28, 2015
This was a great start to a new series. I really loved all the characters in this. Dylan was a perfect example of an alpha male who balanced being dominant without being controlling or a complete asshole. It helped that Sophie was incredibly resilient and self-sufficient. I loved her character, how strong and loyal she was. I also appreciated how the author address the give and take, the push and pull of their relationship. I thought their reunion was well done, as was the development of where the relationship inevitably went.
I'm interested to see who the next book will focus on (Elen, maybe?).
I'm interested to see who the next book will focus on (Elen, maybe?).
December 8, 2013
Great new paranormal romance werewolf author. I loved all the Celtic mythology. The romance in this story isn't real strong, but the rest of the story is very strong. I think that it will build well. I can't wait to see where we go from here.
November 2, 2014
Wow! This was fantastic! I think I've found a fabulous new paranormal series to add to my favorites shelf.
November 4, 2016
I'm not continuing this series. I didn't like the characters and I hated how the author kept trying to shove religion down my throat. Also, one of the bad guys was revealed gay at the end. WTH?
August 23, 2020
This story had a decent, if not very unique, premise. At first I felt the heroine was too passive and stereotypical, but she grew on me. I really liked her Mom and teenaged son. The rest of the book was predictable in plot and writing. The big confrontation was over way too easily and felt pretty anticlimactic. I am interested enough in Elen and Cormack to skip ahead and give book three a try, however.
July 2, 2015
There are NO words. Really. NO WORDS. This is one of the best PNR I have ever read. Especially for being the first in a series where a new world is introduced. My "go to" PNR are ones with Vampires, somehow it also means that in the "endless battle between Weres and Vamps" I will always choose the night walkers.. I don't know if it's because of that, but I was never interested in shifters and were wolves in the past, not as the main paranormal theme but this one came HIGHLY recommended so I did my "due" and added it to my never ending list to read, I must say, with all the PNR series I have on my list I found it hard to find the right time to read this one. For me reading too many PNR series in a row (without other elements or genres) can be a little confusing.. Especially when there are elements that are very similar in those series. So happy I delve into it now before the next one in line (Immortals After Dark btw..) This one is different. SO different.
We are first introduced to Dylan a shifter (=shifts into a wolf), we learn he is a leader of a 'cast out' group of shifters considered weak (and unworthy to live) by the high council of the shifters world. Dylan receives a warning the council are on their way and he dreads the lives of the ones he holds dear, even if not all he holds dear are close at hand.. 16 years ago he lost the woman that he loves because he wasn't willing to share with her the truth of the life he lives, and finally when he was it was too little too late and too aggressive / possessive for the young Sophie to handle.
Sophie came to the village Dylan lives in to do a research about nature. She didn't know anything about the "abnormal" nature of the village and its inhabitants.. she fell in love with Dylan, as he did with her, they married "his way" (=not in a church..) and Sophie got pregnant. Not long after that Dylan was forced to inform Sophie she can't leave, and especially can't leave with his child.. Not the right thing to say to a woman mind you.. especially an hormonal woman hehe
So lets just say it didn't really go that well for Dylan.. Sophie escaped and kept running from Dylan for 16 years, mean while teaching herself and her child how to defend themselves against Dylan when he finally catches up with them..
What she didn't expect – Joshua, her son, becoming more like his father, making her call Dylan and offer to come "home" so he can look into what's happening to their son.
That's all I'm going to say about the plot itself. What I do want to write about is how refreshing I found this book to be and why :)
First let's start with Dylan. I love that he is a man (well most of the time :P), he knows what he wants, he knows how he feels about Sophie, what he wants from her and he is willing to learn from his past mistakes in order to make Sophie his loving wife again. I loved Sophie, not being "bad ass chicka from hell" but also no being the "naïve maiden", no, she is neither, she is a 36 years old woman that have been through a lot in live, she treasures her family – her mother and her son, and she is willing to do everything and anything to protect her family. And not by screaming at the enemy to death, no, she spent the last 16 years making herself what she needs to become. But (!) when she meets Dylan again, she doesn't forget being a woman, a woman in love, a woman who can forgive and but before she forgets she needs her time to build the trust they misplaced.
Their romance in my eyes was just perfect. And I loved her mother and Joshua in this mix, not something we are used to in a romance where it is somehow backwards. Here the son makes the parents come together even if it wasn't what he meant to happen it just did, Sophie came to Dylan for help with their son, and she was willing to stay for Joshua, but she wasn't the annoying distrustful woman you can expect her to be after all she has been through when she was there 16 years ago. She is a mature woman and I can't express how much I loved that! Especially when my previous books have been Young Adult on the verge of New Adult.
The story itself with the council and the treat is interesting and not exactly clear yet, we had "move one" but it's obvious there is more to come. I understand this will be a series but there isn't a date for the next one, which isn't a surprise - this one was published about 4 months ago.. Since I couldn't contain my curiousness I went to Jan's website and as it seems there are (at least?) two books planned for Dylan's siblings' Luc and Ellen. I'm really curious about Luc's book (the next one) but I CAN'T WAIT to Ellen's I can feel the tears building up just thing about this one. awwww
Have I written it's been a pleasure yet? Oh, I did? Well, let's just say it again in case someone missed – A PLEASURE! If you're into paranormal romance – read it. Just do it. It's refreshing and original (in my eyes) and it's by a new author I stand here and applaud. Well done Jan. I'm waiting for the next one! :)
We are first introduced to Dylan a shifter (=shifts into a wolf), we learn he is a leader of a 'cast out' group of shifters considered weak (and unworthy to live) by the high council of the shifters world. Dylan receives a warning the council are on their way and he dreads the lives of the ones he holds dear, even if not all he holds dear are close at hand.. 16 years ago he lost the woman that he loves because he wasn't willing to share with her the truth of the life he lives, and finally when he was it was too little too late and too aggressive / possessive for the young Sophie to handle.
Sophie came to the village Dylan lives in to do a research about nature. She didn't know anything about the "abnormal" nature of the village and its inhabitants.. she fell in love with Dylan, as he did with her, they married "his way" (=not in a church..) and Sophie got pregnant. Not long after that Dylan was forced to inform Sophie she can't leave, and especially can't leave with his child.. Not the right thing to say to a woman mind you.. especially an hormonal woman hehe
So lets just say it didn't really go that well for Dylan.. Sophie escaped and kept running from Dylan for 16 years, mean while teaching herself and her child how to defend themselves against Dylan when he finally catches up with them..
What she didn't expect – Joshua, her son, becoming more like his father, making her call Dylan and offer to come "home" so he can look into what's happening to their son.
That's all I'm going to say about the plot itself. What I do want to write about is how refreshing I found this book to be and why :)
First let's start with Dylan. I love that he is a man (well most of the time :P), he knows what he wants, he knows how he feels about Sophie, what he wants from her and he is willing to learn from his past mistakes in order to make Sophie his loving wife again. I loved Sophie, not being "bad ass chicka from hell" but also no being the "naïve maiden", no, she is neither, she is a 36 years old woman that have been through a lot in live, she treasures her family – her mother and her son, and she is willing to do everything and anything to protect her family. And not by screaming at the enemy to death, no, she spent the last 16 years making herself what she needs to become. But (!) when she meets Dylan again, she doesn't forget being a woman, a woman in love, a woman who can forgive and but before she forgets she needs her time to build the trust they misplaced.
Their romance in my eyes was just perfect. And I loved her mother and Joshua in this mix, not something we are used to in a romance where it is somehow backwards. Here the son makes the parents come together even if it wasn't what he meant to happen it just did, Sophie came to Dylan for help with their son, and she was willing to stay for Joshua, but she wasn't the annoying distrustful woman you can expect her to be after all she has been through when she was there 16 years ago. She is a mature woman and I can't express how much I loved that! Especially when my previous books have been Young Adult on the verge of New Adult.
The story itself with the council and the treat is interesting and not exactly clear yet, we had "move one" but it's obvious there is more to come. I understand this will be a series but there isn't a date for the next one, which isn't a surprise - this one was published about 4 months ago.. Since I couldn't contain my curiousness I went to Jan's website and as it seems there are (at least?) two books planned for Dylan's siblings' Luc and Ellen. I'm really curious about Luc's book (the next one) but I CAN'T WAIT to Ellen's I can feel the tears building up just thing about this one. awwww
Have I written it's been a pleasure yet? Oh, I did? Well, let's just say it again in case someone missed – A PLEASURE! If you're into paranormal romance – read it. Just do it. It's refreshing and original (in my eyes) and it's by a new author I stand here and applaud. Well done Jan. I'm waiting for the next one! :)
November 7, 2015
I am driven to read and when I connect emotionally to characters in books I am thrilled. In Celtic Moon, a paranormal shifter book, I was invested in the characters emotionally. If you like the camaraderie that writer Nalini Singh has between her characters in both her urban fantasy series Psy/Changelings and Guild Hunters, then Jan DiLima’s Celtic Wolves series is a series to add to your to be read list. If you are like me I am always hunting up paranormal or urban fantasy series that really spark my interest that are well written and have good character development. They must also must have a long game type story arc, that ties the series together. There are a select few authors that are one click pre-order authors and I have now added DiLima to this list.
The story in Celtic Moon, is not your typical shifter romance as the story takes place fifteen years and lots of heartbreak, after the two main romance characters Dylan and Sophie had met. This isn’t your typical girl falls in love with a guy who can turn into a wolf. This is a real life paranormal book, girl falls in love with a very secretive man, gets knocked up, he gets even more secretive and possessive, and she feel isolated. He reveals his secret as the big bad wolf in an ‘I’m the alpha here me howl’ fashion, with disastrous effects. The sane human girl freaks and runs away with her baby in her tummy, because ‘Dude just turned into a wolf the size of a pony’, I would have run too! I was thrilled that a heroine in a paranormal book had a real reaction, run for the hills, and that stuff is freaky. So that is the premise of the book. The book picks up fifteen years later with the return of heroine Sophie with teenager in tow. Sophie’s reason for returning, is that she fears her teenage son is starting to turn furry.
I understood and connected with Sophie on a visceral level, she is the mama bear willing to do anything for her cub. She is strong and a no bullshit woman, she isn’t the naive college student who met Dylan shifter leader. One of the delights is that she acted like any sane woman would with her get out of ‘Dodge’ attitude.
Dylan meets his teenage kids and has Sophie back in his life, but she is not the meek innocent girl he met all those years ago. This woman has grown fangs and her nails are painted jungle red, as she has become a tough bad ass to protect her son. Dylan is a idiot, a likable hero, but still an idiot, he obviously knew nothing of modern woman when he met Sophie. He was using the ‘what not to do with your non paranormal mate’, guidebook in his interaction with Sophie sixteen years prior. There wasn’t just one misunderstanding among this couple but tons of misunderstandings and times he did not listen to his mate. His people who he sacrificed all for did not have his back. I am not that thrilled with the people Dylan has pledged his life to, they kinda seem like users.
There were a few characters that despite a great set up, disappeared too early from the story for my liking, namely Sián. I think her character could have become a fulcrum. What, just pack and leave, no show down. I understand her leaving was done to open up the story arc to the outsiders of this one shifter community, to give the readers a bigger urban fantasy world to explore, but an opportunity was missed in this characters departure without conflict.
In all this was one well written book that absorbed my attention.
The story in Celtic Moon, is not your typical shifter romance as the story takes place fifteen years and lots of heartbreak, after the two main romance characters Dylan and Sophie had met. This isn’t your typical girl falls in love with a guy who can turn into a wolf. This is a real life paranormal book, girl falls in love with a very secretive man, gets knocked up, he gets even more secretive and possessive, and she feel isolated. He reveals his secret as the big bad wolf in an ‘I’m the alpha here me howl’ fashion, with disastrous effects. The sane human girl freaks and runs away with her baby in her tummy, because ‘Dude just turned into a wolf the size of a pony’, I would have run too! I was thrilled that a heroine in a paranormal book had a real reaction, run for the hills, and that stuff is freaky. So that is the premise of the book. The book picks up fifteen years later with the return of heroine Sophie with teenager in tow. Sophie’s reason for returning, is that she fears her teenage son is starting to turn furry.
I understood and connected with Sophie on a visceral level, she is the mama bear willing to do anything for her cub. She is strong and a no bullshit woman, she isn’t the naive college student who met Dylan shifter leader. One of the delights is that she acted like any sane woman would with her get out of ‘Dodge’ attitude.
Dylan meets his teenage kids and has Sophie back in his life, but she is not the meek innocent girl he met all those years ago. This woman has grown fangs and her nails are painted jungle red, as she has become a tough bad ass to protect her son. Dylan is a idiot, a likable hero, but still an idiot, he obviously knew nothing of modern woman when he met Sophie. He was using the ‘what not to do with your non paranormal mate’, guidebook in his interaction with Sophie sixteen years prior. There wasn’t just one misunderstanding among this couple but tons of misunderstandings and times he did not listen to his mate. His people who he sacrificed all for did not have his back. I am not that thrilled with the people Dylan has pledged his life to, they kinda seem like users.
There were a few characters that despite a great set up, disappeared too early from the story for my liking, namely Sián. I think her character could have become a fulcrum. What, just pack and leave, no show down. I understand her leaving was done to open up the story arc to the outsiders of this one shifter community, to give the readers a bigger urban fantasy world to explore, but an opportunity was missed in this characters departure without conflict.
In all this was one well written book that absorbed my attention.
September 30, 2013
After years hiding, Sophie returns Rhuddin Village and its wolf shifter leader for the sake of her son Joshua. Dylan has searched for 16 years for his human wife and child. Now that he has them where they belong, in his home, he fears losing them. His people are on the brink of war the eldest and cruelest of their kind and Sophie and Joshua are a weakness he can't afford but refuses to live out.
The only person Sophie loves more than Dylan is their son and it was a combination of the obvious disdain his people had for her, Dylan's insistence on keeping her locked away for her own protection, and one clan member's violent threats that had her fleeing 16 years ago. Sophie is a heroine with courage I respect. She sticks to her guns and reemerges into Dylan's life as a woman more warrior that frightened damsel. She's not a super strong supernatural but she's brave with sass and fortitude to take on shifters and for that I admire the heck out of her.
Dylan didn't intend to frighten Sophie away when he revealed what he was and blurted out something foolish. His tribe is a safe haven from the brutality of the Guardians and he knows what true evil is and wants to shield his family from that. Now that she's back with their son, Dylan admits his mistakes and tries to convince Sophie to stay. Dylan is the snarly alpha with all the right moves in the bedroom and a tad overbearing. I really like the guy but is he anything special or new? No, not really. It's like ordering your favorite dish at different restaurants. There wasn't anything added to make it spectacular but it still satisfies the craving.
Dylan tries to protect his people from the Guardians. They're old and are vile to the core. They torture and/or kill any shifter that doesn't change into both wolf and man. Dylan's clan is made up of those who can shift into either forms or just one. The clan land is also rich with magic that goes hand and hand with their kind so of course the Guardians must have it. A lot is shared about what the Guardians have done and will do but not a whole lot is shown. I think if more was shown I would have shared in their pain and cared more about what they'll have to face.
The wolves in this series have Celtic origins so a lot of Celtic names, terms, and mythology is presented. It's not the typical origins story and that was somewhat refreshing but the unusual names, and there are many, and history bogs down the momentum of the book. Since it's book one in I know some of it is expected but spending a couple minutes trying to figure out how to pronounce someone's name doesn't help to keep things flowing.
Celtic Moon is a good book. My problem is it never rose past good. I liked the story and characters, Sophie in particular, yet it won't stick with me for the long hall. I'm not going to write off reading future books but I'm in no hurry to add them to my TBR list.
- Stephanie
The only person Sophie loves more than Dylan is their son and it was a combination of the obvious disdain his people had for her, Dylan's insistence on keeping her locked away for her own protection, and one clan member's violent threats that had her fleeing 16 years ago. Sophie is a heroine with courage I respect. She sticks to her guns and reemerges into Dylan's life as a woman more warrior that frightened damsel. She's not a super strong supernatural but she's brave with sass and fortitude to take on shifters and for that I admire the heck out of her.
Dylan didn't intend to frighten Sophie away when he revealed what he was and blurted out something foolish. His tribe is a safe haven from the brutality of the Guardians and he knows what true evil is and wants to shield his family from that. Now that she's back with their son, Dylan admits his mistakes and tries to convince Sophie to stay. Dylan is the snarly alpha with all the right moves in the bedroom and a tad overbearing. I really like the guy but is he anything special or new? No, not really. It's like ordering your favorite dish at different restaurants. There wasn't anything added to make it spectacular but it still satisfies the craving.
Dylan tries to protect his people from the Guardians. They're old and are vile to the core. They torture and/or kill any shifter that doesn't change into both wolf and man. Dylan's clan is made up of those who can shift into either forms or just one. The clan land is also rich with magic that goes hand and hand with their kind so of course the Guardians must have it. A lot is shared about what the Guardians have done and will do but not a whole lot is shown. I think if more was shown I would have shared in their pain and cared more about what they'll have to face.
The wolves in this series have Celtic origins so a lot of Celtic names, terms, and mythology is presented. It's not the typical origins story and that was somewhat refreshing but the unusual names, and there are many, and history bogs down the momentum of the book. Since it's book one in I know some of it is expected but spending a couple minutes trying to figure out how to pronounce someone's name doesn't help to keep things flowing.
Celtic Moon is a good book. My problem is it never rose past good. I liked the story and characters, Sophie in particular, yet it won't stick with me for the long hall. I'm not going to write off reading future books but I'm in no hurry to add them to my TBR list.
- Stephanie
September 24, 2013
http://openbooksociety.com/article/ce...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Heidi
celtic-moon-celtic-wolves-jan-delimaSophie has been living her life on the run, always looking over her shoulder afraid that her son’s father, Dylan, will find them. But now she is forced to go to the very man she’s been running from for help. Her son is changing, proving he’s more like his father than she ever feared. In this, Sophie is helpless and knows that Dylan is the only one that can see Joshua through his transition safely.
Dylan is the leader of a misfit Celtic tribe; they escaped their homelands long ago because if they had any abnormalities they would have been killed if they had stayed. Dylan left to save his brother who was born in wolf form. The tribe is weakening and Dylan is one of the few that can shift into both wolf and human forms. And, there is a war brewing as they have already received warning that the Guardians are watching them, and it’s only a matter of time before they act.
No matter what is going on in his life, thoughts of his wife, Sophie, are never far from Dylan’s mind. She was pregnant when she left and he constantly worries if her and his child are safe. Then, the unthinkable happens; Sophie reaches out to him and she and their son return to Rhuddin Village. But could it be possible that Joshua is powerful enough to call his wolf? A shifter hasn’t been born in over 300 years! If the Guardians find out they will come for sure claiming the land is powerful and therefore belongs to them.
I thought this book sounded pretty interesting based on its synopsis. And, let’s face it … I kind of have a thing for shape-shifters anyway.
This novel sucked me in from the very beginning and I was quickly drawn into Sophie’s plight. Escaping a bad situation to save her son only to have to return for the same reason. It was an interesting concept that I ate up with a silver spoon!
I enjoyed the rapport between Sophie and her son. They were loving and protective of one another. I was surprised at how quickly Joshua took to his father though. But the relationship between Dylan and Joshua was also fun to watch! And, of course the rekindling of things between Dylan and Sophie had a nice slow build that was instrumental to this story. Especially when Dylan learned that his wife wasn’t treated as well as he had always thought when she was there the first time. I enjoyed watching him try to right those wrongs and to make sure it would never happen again.
I found that I really enjoyed Celtic Moon and that it was a great start to a new series. There are definitely some hints of what is to come in the next installment, courtesy of Sin, who may be one of the most complicated characters in this book. It has definitely whet my appetite for more and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book, which I can only assume will focus on Dylan’s brother, Luc.
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Heidi
celtic-moon-celtic-wolves-jan-delimaSophie has been living her life on the run, always looking over her shoulder afraid that her son’s father, Dylan, will find them. But now she is forced to go to the very man she’s been running from for help. Her son is changing, proving he’s more like his father than she ever feared. In this, Sophie is helpless and knows that Dylan is the only one that can see Joshua through his transition safely.
Dylan is the leader of a misfit Celtic tribe; they escaped their homelands long ago because if they had any abnormalities they would have been killed if they had stayed. Dylan left to save his brother who was born in wolf form. The tribe is weakening and Dylan is one of the few that can shift into both wolf and human forms. And, there is a war brewing as they have already received warning that the Guardians are watching them, and it’s only a matter of time before they act.
No matter what is going on in his life, thoughts of his wife, Sophie, are never far from Dylan’s mind. She was pregnant when she left and he constantly worries if her and his child are safe. Then, the unthinkable happens; Sophie reaches out to him and she and their son return to Rhuddin Village. But could it be possible that Joshua is powerful enough to call his wolf? A shifter hasn’t been born in over 300 years! If the Guardians find out they will come for sure claiming the land is powerful and therefore belongs to them.
I thought this book sounded pretty interesting based on its synopsis. And, let’s face it … I kind of have a thing for shape-shifters anyway.
This novel sucked me in from the very beginning and I was quickly drawn into Sophie’s plight. Escaping a bad situation to save her son only to have to return for the same reason. It was an interesting concept that I ate up with a silver spoon!
I enjoyed the rapport between Sophie and her son. They were loving and protective of one another. I was surprised at how quickly Joshua took to his father though. But the relationship between Dylan and Joshua was also fun to watch! And, of course the rekindling of things between Dylan and Sophie had a nice slow build that was instrumental to this story. Especially when Dylan learned that his wife wasn’t treated as well as he had always thought when she was there the first time. I enjoyed watching him try to right those wrongs and to make sure it would never happen again.
I found that I really enjoyed Celtic Moon and that it was a great start to a new series. There are definitely some hints of what is to come in the next installment, courtesy of Sin, who may be one of the most complicated characters in this book. It has definitely whet my appetite for more and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book, which I can only assume will focus on Dylan’s brother, Luc.
September 9, 2013
Read the full review, including Memorable Quotes and similar book recommendations at GraveTells.com here:
http://gravetells.com/paranormal-roma...
(note: post will be available starting 9/11/13)
My very first impression from the start of this book was that this was going to be an exciting, high quality story and with every page turned, that was proven as fact. Ms DeLima's style is lyrical and flowing with strong elements of character development and skillfully unraveling history and plotlines, with that extra je nais se quoi that makes some stories so compelling. I was immediately taken by Dylan's dominance, power, and restraint and conversely, with Sophie's determination, cleverness, and sheer bravery. Joshua, their son, is immediately likable and someone I'd have love to have spent time mooning over as a teenager.
Celtic Moon is a unique blend of shifter lore, Arthurian legend, and ancient Celtic myth. The Celtic Wolves series is one of the more original and compelling story universes I've read in the paranormal romance genre, and the plot unfolds with dignity and intense loyalty. In a space so crowded with copycat shifter fiction, Ms. DeLima has crafted a community that feels like home yet still challenges and motivates its characters.
This story continually adapts to the events of the overarching plot, a butterfly effect leaving behind new growths of budding storylines and future possibilities. The pace lags a little between the 50 and 80 percent marks, but comes crashing back with a creatively gruesome (in a great way, don't worry!) ending and a neat segue into what will likely be the next two books. If you're a fan of shifter stories and have been looking for your next "must read", look no further than Celtic Moon! With respectably original creativity and a satisfying blend of lore and powerful personalities, the Celtic Wolves series is off to a fantastic start.
http://gravetells.com/paranormal-roma...
(note: post will be available starting 9/11/13)
My very first impression from the start of this book was that this was going to be an exciting, high quality story and with every page turned, that was proven as fact. Ms DeLima's style is lyrical and flowing with strong elements of character development and skillfully unraveling history and plotlines, with that extra je nais se quoi that makes some stories so compelling. I was immediately taken by Dylan's dominance, power, and restraint and conversely, with Sophie's determination, cleverness, and sheer bravery. Joshua, their son, is immediately likable and someone I'd have love to have spent time mooning over as a teenager.
Celtic Moon is a unique blend of shifter lore, Arthurian legend, and ancient Celtic myth. The Celtic Wolves series is one of the more original and compelling story universes I've read in the paranormal romance genre, and the plot unfolds with dignity and intense loyalty. In a space so crowded with copycat shifter fiction, Ms. DeLima has crafted a community that feels like home yet still challenges and motivates its characters.
This story continually adapts to the events of the overarching plot, a butterfly effect leaving behind new growths of budding storylines and future possibilities. The pace lags a little between the 50 and 80 percent marks, but comes crashing back with a creatively gruesome (in a great way, don't worry!) ending and a neat segue into what will likely be the next two books. If you're a fan of shifter stories and have been looking for your next "must read", look no further than Celtic Moon! With respectably original creativity and a satisfying blend of lore and powerful personalities, the Celtic Wolves series is off to a fantastic start.
September 27, 2013
4.5♥s
Celtic Moon is an amazing debut novel by Jan DeLima. Okay, so she practiced on five previous novels. But she got it right on this one.
Sophie has been on the run from Dylan since the night he gave her a graphic demonstration that he was a wolf-shifter. When their now teenage son, Joshua, shows signs that he might shift, she knows that she has to return to the pack--where she was mistreated. And even threatened with death.
Sophie returns as a different person, a stronger woman who is skilled in self-defense. And so is her son.
Dylan never stopped searching for the woman he considers his wife and mate. He was unaware of some of the reasons she ran from him.
Can Dylan rekindle the fire that he and Sophie once had? Can he right the wrongs that were done to her? Can he become the father that he wants to be? And can he keep his family safe from the ancient enemy that has recently threatened the pack?
***
Sophie, Dylan, and Joshua are well-drawn characters that you'll come to love and root for. You'll want to see Sophie and Dylan get back together. You'll want to see Dylan and Joshua become father and son. This is very much a character-driven story.
Secondary characters provide comic relief (Sophie's mother) and tension (unfriendly pack members). Future storylines are set up with Dylan's family members and a mysterious, powerful being.
I believe that Jan's strength lies in her characters and her descriptive, lyrical writing style. I docked the book 1/2♥ for the slightly anti-climactic finale. But hey, Jan writes a heckuva lot better than I do. Who am I to criticize?
I couldn't put this book down and stayed up way too late reading it. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
Celtic Moon is an amazing debut novel by Jan DeLima. Okay, so she practiced on five previous novels. But she got it right on this one.
Sophie has been on the run from Dylan since the night he gave her a graphic demonstration that he was a wolf-shifter. When their now teenage son, Joshua, shows signs that he might shift, she knows that she has to return to the pack--where she was mistreated. And even threatened with death.
Sophie returns as a different person, a stronger woman who is skilled in self-defense. And so is her son.
Dylan never stopped searching for the woman he considers his wife and mate. He was unaware of some of the reasons she ran from him.
Can Dylan rekindle the fire that he and Sophie once had? Can he right the wrongs that were done to her? Can he become the father that he wants to be? And can he keep his family safe from the ancient enemy that has recently threatened the pack?
***
Sophie, Dylan, and Joshua are well-drawn characters that you'll come to love and root for. You'll want to see Sophie and Dylan get back together. You'll want to see Dylan and Joshua become father and son. This is very much a character-driven story.
Secondary characters provide comic relief (Sophie's mother) and tension (unfriendly pack members). Future storylines are set up with Dylan's family members and a mysterious, powerful being.
I believe that Jan's strength lies in her characters and her descriptive, lyrical writing style. I docked the book 1/2♥ for the slightly anti-climactic finale. But hey, Jan writes a heckuva lot better than I do. Who am I to criticize?
I couldn't put this book down and stayed up way too late reading it. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
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