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Shifters Unbound #6
Wild Wolf
In the latest Shifters Unbound novel, a man has resigned himself to a life half lived. But a beautiful, courageous woman has him longing for something more…
Graham McNeil knows that his pack is unruly, but he’s not sure he can take the next step toward Shiftertown stability—choosing a new mate. After losing his mate and son long ago, Graham has worked hard to keep his heart in check. And even if he was inclined to bind himself again, his girlfriend, Misty, is human—a fact that won’t sit well with Graham’s old-fashioned wolves.
But Graham is up against a new enemy, one who could spell danger and death to all of Shiftertown. Graham must now defend his leadership and save Misty, the woman he has grown to love—before Shiftertown is pulled into an all-out war.
Graham McNeil knows that his pack is unruly, but he’s not sure he can take the next step toward Shiftertown stability—choosing a new mate. After losing his mate and son long ago, Graham has worked hard to keep his heart in check. And even if he was inclined to bind himself again, his girlfriend, Misty, is human—a fact that won’t sit well with Graham’s old-fashioned wolves.
But Graham is up against a new enemy, one who could spell danger and death to all of Shiftertown. Graham must now defend his leadership and save Misty, the woman he has grown to love—before Shiftertown is pulled into an all-out war.
294 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 1, 2014
About the author
Jennifer Ashley
219 books7,353 followersNY Times Bestselling author Jennifer Ashley writes historical, contemporary, and paranormal romance, historical mysteries, and urban fantasy as Jennifer Ashley, Allyson James, and Ashley Gardner.
Jennifer's novels have been translated into many different languages, and earned starred reviews from Booklist and Publisher's Weekly. More about her books at http://www.jenniferashley.com and http://gardnermysteries.com.
Jennifer's novels have been translated into many different languages, and earned starred reviews from Booklist and Publisher's Weekly. More about her books at http://www.jenniferashley.com and http://gardnermysteries.com.
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October 9, 2013Graham's story. He's a Big Bad Wolf.
August 13, 2016
Graham is my second favourite shifter after Liam and this surprises me, truly.
Let's see why I am so surprised that I like him using his own words:
-His opinion about himself: "It is traditional with me to just being a shit. I can't not be one."
-His opinion about women and romantic movies: " Women in real life wouldn't settle for the beta. They would keep trying for the alpha."
-His opinion about apparently his love of his life:"This is what I get for being nice to a human. You are what is wrong. You have fucked me over."
Graham is a big bad wolf. He is uneducated, he has lived a hard life, he is rough, he doesn't trust anyone, he is unpolished with no manners, he was an asshole in the previous books and he is an asshole for the majority of this book.
But there is Misty and suddenly Graham falls in love.
Although
he does not need a human in his life and
he needs to take a lupine as a mate and
he needs to establish his dynasty and
he needs to keep the wolves in shifter town under control and
he keeps arguing and fighting with Eric the powerful alpha leader and
he has a nephew and two little orphan wolves to take care and protect and
he has so many troubles to last for a lifetime,
he falls in love with Misty and all the problems fade away.
She creates new ones...
Graham learns to say "I am sorry" and "please", "don't leave alone again, please" and he is seriously a sweetheart.
My favourite scene is when Graham and Misty are sharing tequila with rose petals to break the fae magic, arguing about which drinks are manly and which drinks are for chicks. And of course he is much too smug with his sex appeal and his expertise with women when they end up making out.
Let's see why I am so surprised that I like him using his own words:
-His opinion about himself: "It is traditional with me to just being a shit. I can't not be one."
-His opinion about women and romantic movies: " Women in real life wouldn't settle for the beta. They would keep trying for the alpha."
-His opinion about apparently his love of his life:"This is what I get for being nice to a human. You are what is wrong. You have fucked me over."
Graham is a big bad wolf. He is uneducated, he has lived a hard life, he is rough, he doesn't trust anyone, he is unpolished with no manners, he was an asshole in the previous books and he is an asshole for the majority of this book.
But there is Misty and suddenly Graham falls in love.
Although
he does not need a human in his life and
he needs to take a lupine as a mate and
he needs to establish his dynasty and
he needs to keep the wolves in shifter town under control and
he keeps arguing and fighting with Eric the powerful alpha leader and
he has a nephew and two little orphan wolves to take care and protect and
he has so many troubles to last for a lifetime,
he falls in love with Misty and all the problems fade away.
She creates new ones...
Graham learns to say "I am sorry" and "please", "don't leave alone again, please" and he is seriously a sweetheart.
My favourite scene is when Graham and Misty are sharing tequila with rose petals to break the fae magic, arguing about which drinks are manly and which drinks are for chicks. And of course he is much too smug with his sex appeal and his expertise with women when they end up making out.
March 28, 2014
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads
I don’t typically dive into a series at the sixth installment, but when Jennifer Ashley’s WILD WOLF landed on my doorstep I couldn’t resist the call of her werewolves. Fortunately for me, this book stands well enough on its own and the writing drew me in to the point of needing to go back, and start the SHIFTERS UNBOUND journey from the beginning. The mythology is well thought out, and is paired with red-hot love scenes and extremely likable characters. Ashley just went from being a new-to-me-author to a must read!
The world-building and lore are the two main elements that caught my interest early on, and are also the primary reasons why I plan on picking-up book 1. I’m sure that there’s way more to the SU universe than what I was able to gleam from only one installment, but the tidbits I did learn made me fall head-over-heels in love with this series. Ashley’s werewolves have been exiled to reservation-type living conditions called Shiftertowns, are forced to wear anti-aggression collars, and are just overall unwelcome among humans. There’s also a variety of different shifter breeds and even subgroups of wolves which made learning about them all a lot of fun.
I was surprised by the author’s approach to the romantic aspect of this story; Graham and Misty have been dating for 8 months, but have yet to have sex, which is practically unheard of in novels that feature mate bonds. And, the two main characters don’t actually get-it-on until quite a ways into the book, but in the interim there’s no shortage of “substitute” options, and these turn-out to be equally as satisfying. I liked that even though she’s human, Misty is far from weak; in fact, she saves McNeil’s alpha-ass not once, but twice! They make a great couple and I thoroughly enjoyed reading their story.
The secondary characters were phenomenal as well; some of the mated pairs have obviously been featured in previous installments, and after meeting them in WILD WOLF, I’m anxious to read their tales. There’s a nice mix of supernaturals in the SU world, and I enjoyed learning about Ashley’s Fae and gnomes (yes GNOMES!). I loved Matt & Kyle—the adorable werewolf cubs—and Reid, Ben, Dougal and Eric were awesome personalities too. It’s clear that this series has a lot of offer; my only regret is not having discovered it sooner!
WILD WOLF is a fantastic book whether you’re a long-time Jennifer Ashley fan or a newcomer like me. Great humour, sexy shifters and outstanding writing—everything a reader needs for hours of enjoyment.
I don’t typically dive into a series at the sixth installment, but when Jennifer Ashley’s WILD WOLF landed on my doorstep I couldn’t resist the call of her werewolves. Fortunately for me, this book stands well enough on its own and the writing drew me in to the point of needing to go back, and start the SHIFTERS UNBOUND journey from the beginning. The mythology is well thought out, and is paired with red-hot love scenes and extremely likable characters. Ashley just went from being a new-to-me-author to a must read!
The world-building and lore are the two main elements that caught my interest early on, and are also the primary reasons why I plan on picking-up book 1. I’m sure that there’s way more to the SU universe than what I was able to gleam from only one installment, but the tidbits I did learn made me fall head-over-heels in love with this series. Ashley’s werewolves have been exiled to reservation-type living conditions called Shiftertowns, are forced to wear anti-aggression collars, and are just overall unwelcome among humans. There’s also a variety of different shifter breeds and even subgroups of wolves which made learning about them all a lot of fun.
I was surprised by the author’s approach to the romantic aspect of this story; Graham and Misty have been dating for 8 months, but have yet to have sex, which is practically unheard of in novels that feature mate bonds. And, the two main characters don’t actually get-it-on until quite a ways into the book, but in the interim there’s no shortage of “substitute” options, and these turn-out to be equally as satisfying. I liked that even though she’s human, Misty is far from weak; in fact, she saves McNeil’s alpha-ass not once, but twice! They make a great couple and I thoroughly enjoyed reading their story.
The secondary characters were phenomenal as well; some of the mated pairs have obviously been featured in previous installments, and after meeting them in WILD WOLF, I’m anxious to read their tales. There’s a nice mix of supernaturals in the SU world, and I enjoyed learning about Ashley’s Fae and gnomes (yes GNOMES!). I loved Matt & Kyle—the adorable werewolf cubs—and Reid, Ben, Dougal and Eric were awesome personalities too. It’s clear that this series has a lot of offer; my only regret is not having discovered it sooner!
WILD WOLF is a fantastic book whether you’re a long-time Jennifer Ashley fan or a newcomer like me. Great humour, sexy shifters and outstanding writing—everything a reader needs for hours of enjoyment.
February 12, 2015
I have been wanting to read Graham's story from the moment we met him and in this I got my wish!
Graham's story was exactly what I had imagined it to be, where this truly Alpha wolf who had a tough exterior/attitude would just melt at the presence of his mate. I could have happily slapped him up the side of the head about his resistance to take Misty as his mate, but understood that as the Alpha of his pack he was expected to mate with another wolf and not a human. Thankfully Misty was not a weak and insipid character and proved on more than a few occasions that she was capable of handling the pack Alpha and become a worthy mate.
This story had more involvement with Fae/faerie than any of the others and normally I don't enjoy reading about them and generally stay away from books featuring them as main characters, but strangely in this series I have found them very intriguing and fascinating. I still wouldn't want a whole book mainly revolving around them but am more than happy with the level of interaction they have had in the stories so far.
Well done Ms Ashley, you done it again and made me a very happy and contented bunny.
Graham's story was exactly what I had imagined it to be, where this truly Alpha wolf who had a tough exterior/attitude would just melt at the presence of his mate. I could have happily slapped him up the side of the head about his resistance to take Misty as his mate, but understood that as the Alpha of his pack he was expected to mate with another wolf and not a human. Thankfully Misty was not a weak and insipid character and proved on more than a few occasions that she was capable of handling the pack Alpha and become a worthy mate.
This story had more involvement with Fae/faerie than any of the others and normally I don't enjoy reading about them and generally stay away from books featuring them as main characters, but strangely in this series I have found them very intriguing and fascinating. I still wouldn't want a whole book mainly revolving around them but am more than happy with the level of interaction they have had in the stories so far.
Well done Ms Ashley, you done it again and made me a very happy and contented bunny.
February 2, 2016
I am back!!! LOL I have missed GR and all my buddies so much! As far as this installment in the shifter town series, I had a harder time getting into it. Now it could be because I was on holidays and preoccupied...or that maybe it is time to take a breather from the series and come back to it...I did try and pin-point exactly why it was just a "meh" read for me...but seriously...I do think it is the case of "it just me" and not the actual story itself. I still feel that Jennifer Ashley is a genius, and I still love my shifters who I have come to know in this series. I will come back to this series very soon, I am just going to do a change of pace for a bit before I do!!
April 9, 2014
Pretty good installment of the Shifters Unbound series. It actually answers some questions I've had and helps to guide the action forward. I've been feeling the series might be a little stuck in the mud.
We met Graham, the wolf clan alpha of the Las Vegas shiftertown, in Eric's (the shiftertown leader) book. Graham was a jerk in that book. His entire pack had been moved against their will to the Las Vegas shiftertown and he had been placed under someone else's rule. Not a happy circumstance and he didn't handle it well. By the end of that book, though, it was obvious that he would have his own story and I'd been looking forward to it.
Misty was introduced in an earlier book as well, although I can't remember exactly which one. She and Graham immediately hit it off, even though she's human and he's vowed to his clan he'll only take a wolf shifter mate.
So, in this book Graham and Misty have been dating for a while, although Graham has kept it mostly chaste. Lots of kissing but nothing more intimate, because of his vow. It's clear he's fallen hard for her and the feelings are reciprocated. Nothing's easy for a shifter romance, though, in this world.
The action starts right away with troubles outlined when we first met Misty coming raging to the fore in the very first chapter. Very quickly, both of them are in danger from the fae as well as from Graham's clan as his mating vow is about to be shattered.
Graham is an interesting character. He's always yelling but then he's joking around and allowing others to joke at his expense. He raised and continues to care for his nephew Dougal and now he's been saddled with twin pups whose mother died giving birth and whose father has never been identified. So he's obviously a guy who cares deeply and doesn't hide it. I like it. Just because he's got a temper and goes around grumbling, that doesn't mean he's covering up his kindness and compassion. It's a good mix and Misty's perfect for him in that she doesn't take any (or most) of his grouching seriously, nor is she afraid of him in any way. She's smart and kind and has spent her own life taking care of others. It's nice to see them work through their difficulties to get a well deserved HEA.
We met Graham, the wolf clan alpha of the Las Vegas shiftertown, in Eric's (the shiftertown leader) book. Graham was a jerk in that book. His entire pack had been moved against their will to the Las Vegas shiftertown and he had been placed under someone else's rule. Not a happy circumstance and he didn't handle it well. By the end of that book, though, it was obvious that he would have his own story and I'd been looking forward to it.
Misty was introduced in an earlier book as well, although I can't remember exactly which one. She and Graham immediately hit it off, even though she's human and he's vowed to his clan he'll only take a wolf shifter mate.
So, in this book Graham and Misty have been dating for a while, although Graham has kept it mostly chaste. Lots of kissing but nothing more intimate, because of his vow. It's clear he's fallen hard for her and the feelings are reciprocated. Nothing's easy for a shifter romance, though, in this world.
The action starts right away with troubles outlined when we first met Misty coming raging to the fore in the very first chapter. Very quickly, both of them are in danger from the fae as well as from Graham's clan as his mating vow is about to be shattered.
Graham is an interesting character. He's always yelling but then he's joking around and allowing others to joke at his expense. He raised and continues to care for his nephew Dougal and now he's been saddled with twin pups whose mother died giving birth and whose father has never been identified. So he's obviously a guy who cares deeply and doesn't hide it. I like it. Just because he's got a temper and goes around grumbling, that doesn't mean he's covering up his kindness and compassion. It's a good mix and Misty's perfect for him in that she doesn't take any (or most) of his grouching seriously, nor is she afraid of him in any way. She's smart and kind and has spent her own life taking care of others. It's nice to see them work through their difficulties to get a well deserved HEA.
August 17, 2016
**3.5 stars **
Too much stuff with the Fae kind of took away from the main couple's story but I guess we got some answers about the collars.
Too much stuff with the Fae kind of took away from the main couple's story but I guess we got some answers about the collars.
April 21, 2014
I liked that Graham was craggy and scarred from having lived a very rough life, that he'd earned and kept his pack leadership by fighting for it and his people. I liked that he wasn't slick and smooth, not educated. And he didn't apologize for it. He was possibly the strongest shifter we've seen in Ashley's Unbound series, an unstoppable force. I loved the way he fought his enemy in this book even knowing he couldn't win, but simply refused to surrender. Not eating, drinking, sleeping, and all to protect the other shifters, including his own, and, of course, Misty.
I liked the plot of Wild Wolf, too. SPOILERS COMING!!!! I thought the idea of the Fae having put a nasty secret in the collars so they could bring the Shifters back under their power was a nice twist. It lends urgency to getting the collars off all Shifters. I even liked the two baby wolves in the book---they were so full of energy and so loving, it was hard NOT to like them. I would love it if Ashley jumped forward in time at some point and tell us about these two when they're all grown, because as it turns out they're rather unique.
I liked the plot of Wild Wolf, too. SPOILERS COMING!!!! I thought the idea of the Fae having put a nasty secret in the collars so they could bring the Shifters back under their power was a nice twist. It lends urgency to getting the collars off all Shifters. I even liked the two baby wolves in the book---they were so full of energy and so loving, it was hard NOT to like them. I would love it if Ashley jumped forward in time at some point and tell us about these two when they're all grown, because as it turns out they're rather unique.
April 16, 2015
Read this review on Got Fiction? book blog
***Minor Spoilers***
Graham is one of the heroes I feel Ms. Ashley excels at writing. He's not necessarily the good guy. In fact, he was the bad guy back in Iona's book Mate Claimed.
She picks the gray areas in between good guy and bad guy and she exploits them well.
Graham and Misty have been dating for a few months. Graham thinks she could be "The One" so he's been holding himself back, since he knows he has to find a wolf to secure his spot as alpha in the new shiftertown in Las Vegas. A couple of books back, the government closed down his shiftertown in Elko (mid-northern Nevada), and moved him and all of his wolves down to the Vegas Shiftertown. And that went super smoothly and not at all without dominance disputes, of course (sarcasm needs a font, people, it really does).
But when Misty's flower shop is ransacked, and she's kidnapped by some guys who want her brother, she calls Graham. But, something feels...off...to Graham. Either this was too easy, or these guys are really stupid, or they've got something up their sleeves. Whatever it is, Graham saves Misty, but at the cost of being shot. This isn't horrible, he's a very strong wolf, after all, except that they're out in the middle of the desert with no water or shade, and the yahoos who shot him took his ride.
Misty weighs their chances, and decides to hike a bit to find some shade. What she finds is a cave with a hiker already in it. He offers her some of his water, and she takes some back to Graham. But what they don't know is that the water and cave were actually in Faerie, and Misty and Graham just took fae water from a fae who won't hesitate to control them.
This is a big plot point, because while we know from previous books that the fae created shifters to be their warriors/slaves, and we know the fae were involved in making the collars, that's pretty much all we know. Now we see why they made the collars. (hint: it isn't to look pretty!).
There's a war coming...
I'm not sure if humans are in on it or not, but I wouldn't be surprised. Not all fae are bad, though, so with a few friends on their side, maybe Graham and Misty can overcome being enslaved by a fae.
But, maybe they can't...
Meanwhile, Graham still has to choose a wolf mate. This throws a wrench in his relationship with Misty, because no matter what he'd told himself, he can't let Misty go.
This was a strong addition to the Shifters Unbound series, which as you all know, I love. With last month's release of her latest book Mate Bond, I'm really excited to see where Ms. Ashley takes us. Combining the fae with shifters, Jennifer Ashley has created an exciting world full of intrigue and danger. You should be reading this series. You're welcome. ;)
***ARC courtesy of Berkley
***Minor Spoilers***
Graham is one of the heroes I feel Ms. Ashley excels at writing. He's not necessarily the good guy. In fact, he was the bad guy back in Iona's book Mate Claimed.
She picks the gray areas in between good guy and bad guy and she exploits them well.
Graham and Misty have been dating for a few months. Graham thinks she could be "The One" so he's been holding himself back, since he knows he has to find a wolf to secure his spot as alpha in the new shiftertown in Las Vegas. A couple of books back, the government closed down his shiftertown in Elko (mid-northern Nevada), and moved him and all of his wolves down to the Vegas Shiftertown. And that went super smoothly and not at all without dominance disputes, of course (sarcasm needs a font, people, it really does).
But when Misty's flower shop is ransacked, and she's kidnapped by some guys who want her brother, she calls Graham. But, something feels...off...to Graham. Either this was too easy, or these guys are really stupid, or they've got something up their sleeves. Whatever it is, Graham saves Misty, but at the cost of being shot. This isn't horrible, he's a very strong wolf, after all, except that they're out in the middle of the desert with no water or shade, and the yahoos who shot him took his ride.
Misty weighs their chances, and decides to hike a bit to find some shade. What she finds is a cave with a hiker already in it. He offers her some of his water, and she takes some back to Graham. But what they don't know is that the water and cave were actually in Faerie, and Misty and Graham just took fae water from a fae who won't hesitate to control them.
This is a big plot point, because while we know from previous books that the fae created shifters to be their warriors/slaves, and we know the fae were involved in making the collars, that's pretty much all we know. Now we see why they made the collars. (hint: it isn't to look pretty!).
There's a war coming...
I'm not sure if humans are in on it or not, but I wouldn't be surprised. Not all fae are bad, though, so with a few friends on their side, maybe Graham and Misty can overcome being enslaved by a fae.
But, maybe they can't...
Meanwhile, Graham still has to choose a wolf mate. This throws a wrench in his relationship with Misty, because no matter what he'd told himself, he can't let Misty go.
This was a strong addition to the Shifters Unbound series, which as you all know, I love. With last month's release of her latest book Mate Bond, I'm really excited to see where Ms. Ashley takes us. Combining the fae with shifters, Jennifer Ashley has created an exciting world full of intrigue and danger. You should be reading this series. You're welcome. ;)
***ARC courtesy of Berkley
April 3, 2014
Originally posted at http://smexybooks.com/2014/04/review-...
Favorite Quote: “It could just be me and you…We’d unmake the world.”
Graham McNeil, alpha of the wildest lupine (wolf) pack in the Las Vegas Shiftertown, gave up everything and allowed himself be collared to save his pack. Now his pack wants him to mate but when his first mate died giving birth, Graham vowed never to allow himself to be that vulnerable again. Besides, the only woman who makes him feel anything is his human girlfriend and he knows his pack would never accept her as his mate.
Misty has her own crisis to deal with. Her brother’s past has come gunning for her and she inadvertently drags Graham and the pack into her troubles. When a plot by the Fae is discovered, a plot that will force Shiftertown to all out war, Graham must open his heart and defy his pack if he is to stop the complete annihilation coming their way.
Wild Wolf is the sixth book in Jennifer Ashley’s Shifters Unbound series. An engaging paranormal romance that delivers well developed characters, off the cuff humor, devious plots lines, steamy romance, and engaging dialogue. I love the balance created in here between the sexy romance and the heart pounding conflict. Though you know your happy ending is coming, the path that you follow to this conclusion is fraught with peril and pain and all you can do ride it out. Ashley’s clear and concise writing allows for easy comprehension of her evolving world even though it is rather convoluted. These can be read as standalones, I don’t recommend it. You lose out on character and world comprehension along with the ongoing arc development by not starting from the beginning of the series, Pride Mates. Multi layered plots that further expand the ongoing arc and take us in new directions. Readers will find themselves devouring each page as new subplots yield bigger clues and dangerous situations.
Though we have interacted with Graham McNeil on and off throughout the series, it is nice to finally get his back story. A grumpy broody alpha who embodies the adage that it’s his way or no way, Graham rules his pack with a heavy hand. There are reasons for his tough love approach. His pack is hardcore, stubborn, and very old fashioned. Their attempts to force him into mating with one of their own leaves him perpetually angry.
“Go chew on that…and stop looking in my windows.”
Misty, Graham’s girlfriend, is a full human. A sweet uncomplicated woman who will do anything for those she cares about. She is steel wrapped in velvet and often underestimated, especially by Graham. She was forced to take on adult responsibility at an early age and practically raised her brother. She has strong feelings for Graham but doesn’t understand his world or the intricacies of the shifter hierarchy.
“This is one of those shifter things I wouldn’t understand, right?”
As a couple they are hilarious. Their bickering and banter will leave you laughing. Misty doesn’t acknowledge Graham’s alpha-ness and that both intrigues and infuriates him. She is independent, intelligent, feisty, and doesn’t take any of his grief. Graham always planned to just fool around with Misty then drop her when he was finished, but she gets so far under his skin, he finds he can’t let her go. Their chemistry is explosive, enhanced by some extremely hot love scenes, though Ashley drives the actual emotional aspect of the romance with a firm but slow hand. There are mitigating factors that Graham and Misty must deal with if they are to be together permanently.
“Your lupines are gonna be pissed off.”
“They can bite me.”
“They probably will.”
The main conflict continues to address the long standing racism and antagonism that exists between the humans and shifters, drawing in and expanding the Fae storyline to push the series towards what is sure to be a climactic finale. More information is given regarding the Shifter Wars and the collars that now imprison the shifters. New characters are introduced who all hold an important puzzle piece to completing the big picture while we see plenty of old faces and learn what parts they continue to play behind the scenes.
The ending is an intense, action packed roller coaster ride of deception, betrayal, and redemption as Misty and Graham fight to protect their love and their makeshift family. Ashley continues to evaluate this series and I look forward to future installments. I recommend this series to all readers who love their heroes and heroines to be kick ass, sexy, funny, and always willing to cross the line for those they love.
RATING: B+
Favorite Quote: “It could just be me and you…We’d unmake the world.”
Graham McNeil, alpha of the wildest lupine (wolf) pack in the Las Vegas Shiftertown, gave up everything and allowed himself be collared to save his pack. Now his pack wants him to mate but when his first mate died giving birth, Graham vowed never to allow himself to be that vulnerable again. Besides, the only woman who makes him feel anything is his human girlfriend and he knows his pack would never accept her as his mate.
Misty has her own crisis to deal with. Her brother’s past has come gunning for her and she inadvertently drags Graham and the pack into her troubles. When a plot by the Fae is discovered, a plot that will force Shiftertown to all out war, Graham must open his heart and defy his pack if he is to stop the complete annihilation coming their way.
Wild Wolf is the sixth book in Jennifer Ashley’s Shifters Unbound series. An engaging paranormal romance that delivers well developed characters, off the cuff humor, devious plots lines, steamy romance, and engaging dialogue. I love the balance created in here between the sexy romance and the heart pounding conflict. Though you know your happy ending is coming, the path that you follow to this conclusion is fraught with peril and pain and all you can do ride it out. Ashley’s clear and concise writing allows for easy comprehension of her evolving world even though it is rather convoluted. These can be read as standalones, I don’t recommend it. You lose out on character and world comprehension along with the ongoing arc development by not starting from the beginning of the series, Pride Mates. Multi layered plots that further expand the ongoing arc and take us in new directions. Readers will find themselves devouring each page as new subplots yield bigger clues and dangerous situations.
Though we have interacted with Graham McNeil on and off throughout the series, it is nice to finally get his back story. A grumpy broody alpha who embodies the adage that it’s his way or no way, Graham rules his pack with a heavy hand. There are reasons for his tough love approach. His pack is hardcore, stubborn, and very old fashioned. Their attempts to force him into mating with one of their own leaves him perpetually angry.
“Go chew on that…and stop looking in my windows.”
Misty, Graham’s girlfriend, is a full human. A sweet uncomplicated woman who will do anything for those she cares about. She is steel wrapped in velvet and often underestimated, especially by Graham. She was forced to take on adult responsibility at an early age and practically raised her brother. She has strong feelings for Graham but doesn’t understand his world or the intricacies of the shifter hierarchy.
“This is one of those shifter things I wouldn’t understand, right?”
As a couple they are hilarious. Their bickering and banter will leave you laughing. Misty doesn’t acknowledge Graham’s alpha-ness and that both intrigues and infuriates him. She is independent, intelligent, feisty, and doesn’t take any of his grief. Graham always planned to just fool around with Misty then drop her when he was finished, but she gets so far under his skin, he finds he can’t let her go. Their chemistry is explosive, enhanced by some extremely hot love scenes, though Ashley drives the actual emotional aspect of the romance with a firm but slow hand. There are mitigating factors that Graham and Misty must deal with if they are to be together permanently.
“Your lupines are gonna be pissed off.”
“They can bite me.”
“They probably will.”
The main conflict continues to address the long standing racism and antagonism that exists between the humans and shifters, drawing in and expanding the Fae storyline to push the series towards what is sure to be a climactic finale. More information is given regarding the Shifter Wars and the collars that now imprison the shifters. New characters are introduced who all hold an important puzzle piece to completing the big picture while we see plenty of old faces and learn what parts they continue to play behind the scenes.
The ending is an intense, action packed roller coaster ride of deception, betrayal, and redemption as Misty and Graham fight to protect their love and their makeshift family. Ashley continues to evaluate this series and I look forward to future installments. I recommend this series to all readers who love their heroes and heroines to be kick ass, sexy, funny, and always willing to cross the line for those they love.
RATING: B+
March 30, 2014
So yeah, maybe I've been anxiously awaiting this one for a while now. And who the deuce was lucky enough to win a signed ARC? Yeah, that was me. :)
I'm sure you guys already know Jennifer Ashley is one of my favorite authors, both historical and paranormal. Just when I think I'm in fictional love with one character from an earlier book (Sean), then she dangles a new one in front of my face.
I loved Graham!
He was such an ass in earlier books, but I knew there had to be more to him. Especially once he met Misty. Don't get me wrong, he's still an ass in this book to a degree, but he's an endearing, possessive, sarcastic ass who loves his little Misty. *Le sigh* Yep, I like him very much. Once you knew more of what he'd dealt with in his life, the losses in his life, how he struggled to keep his pack from falling apart, moving to a new territory and all that, his ass-ish tendencies made much more sense.
But hey, what's a great hero without a good supporting cast. I love that the author writes strong heroines to suit her heroes. Plus, the shifters are big on family and Graham is no different. I loved the two little cubs, Kyle and Matt. You'll totally understand when you read the book.
AND, could have just been me, but it really seemed like the story line for the whole series picked up a whole new thread, progressing and deepening the plot with the shifters' collars and Fae. Overall, I loved this latest addition to the Shifters Unbound series. I can see Wild Wolf being one I'll reread many times.
I'm sure you guys already know Jennifer Ashley is one of my favorite authors, both historical and paranormal. Just when I think I'm in fictional love with one character from an earlier book (Sean), then she dangles a new one in front of my face.
I loved Graham!
He was such an ass in earlier books, but I knew there had to be more to him. Especially once he met Misty. Don't get me wrong, he's still an ass in this book to a degree, but he's an endearing, possessive, sarcastic ass who loves his little Misty. *Le sigh* Yep, I like him very much. Once you knew more of what he'd dealt with in his life, the losses in his life, how he struggled to keep his pack from falling apart, moving to a new territory and all that, his ass-ish tendencies made much more sense.
But hey, what's a great hero without a good supporting cast. I love that the author writes strong heroines to suit her heroes. Plus, the shifters are big on family and Graham is no different. I loved the two little cubs, Kyle and Matt. You'll totally understand when you read the book.
AND, could have just been me, but it really seemed like the story line for the whole series picked up a whole new thread, progressing and deepening the plot with the shifters' collars and Fae. Overall, I loved this latest addition to the Shifters Unbound series. I can see Wild Wolf being one I'll reread many times.
April 17, 2014
Full of MEHs. Between 2-3 stars. Rounded up because this book is finally pushing the larger plot regarding the Fae.
But basically -- don't see what's so great about Misty. Don't see what's so great about Graham. He never tells her anything but when he's NOT an asshole Misty's all "Look! A brief hint of deep-buried tenderness! LURVE!"
I found everything BUT the main characters interesting. So the three stars is the for the plot progression and larger world but Misty and Graham get a MEH 2 stars from me.
But basically -- don't see what's so great about Misty. Don't see what's so great about Graham. He never tells her anything but when he's NOT an asshole Misty's all "Look! A brief hint of deep-buried tenderness! LURVE!"
I found everything BUT the main characters interesting. So the three stars is the for the plot progression and larger world but Misty and Graham get a MEH 2 stars from me.
June 12, 2015
I pretty much threw caution to the wind and grabbed this one simply because I was in the mood for a new shifter romance. Middle of a series, ignored the blurb...yep, it was an impulse grab and then it just sat. Thankfully, I've been busy pulling things off the shelf that need to be read and this was one of them because I had an absolute blast reading this. My only issue is that I wish I had started from the beginning since I could tell that I was in the middle of a series. Not that it didn't work as a standalone, but there was just this sense that it was connected to other stories.
The story is part of a creative world where shifters came out to the humans, the humans freaked, and now shifters are treated as less than second-class citizens, shunted to reservation-like towns and forced to wear control collars. Shifters aren't the only supernaturals, but just the ones that are known.
The story begins with Graham McNeil, an alpha wolf shifter, and his clan of shifters forced out of their shifter town in Northern Nevada and forced to integrate with another shifter town pack outside Las Vegas because the humans want to consolidate. It's a hard integration because his pack is close to feral and were already struggling with the adjustment of being forced into a shifter town after the freedom of the wild let alone now being forced to move again. Humans don't get that Graham is an alpha in his own right and can't just defer to the alpha of the town just because. There is also the fact that his unstable pack needs him to take a mate and secure their future leadership. Graham is already pushing things with his human girl friend, Misty. He knows that he eventually has to mate another shifter, but it is to Misty with her acceptance, her smiles, and her tender heart that he is drawn. And when Misty is in trouble, he will do anything he can for her.
Misty loves her flower shop and enjoys dating the big gruff wolf shifter who puts fear and caution on the faces of ever human and shifter he encounters. He is loud, obnoxious and has no tender side, but she cares for him deeply and wishes that their relationship stood a chance of growing into something solid. Misty knows the score with Graham. Then her life takes a turn for the bad when a gang run by an ex-con who her brother screwed over while inside prison destroys her shop, assaults her and threatens to do much worse if she doesn't tell him where her brother is. Misty tricks him into letting her phone her brother when she is really calling Graham. Her rescue takes place and she gets to see Graham in all his alpha wolf glory, but learns that someone else orchestrated all this to trap a shifter. Now Misty is drawn into Graham's world and they must figure out a way to work together if they are to get out of this new trouble. In the meantime, they are both confounded by growing feelings of attachment and attraction that make it impossible to imagine a future separation.
This story was exciting, humorous, hot, intriguing, and just an all around good time. I loved the creative worldbuilding and the engaging characters. The plot moved along at a good pace and I loved the intense, tight corners the author put the characters in and the imaginative solutions. The misfit family that Graham had with his nephew and the twin foster cubs along with Misty was my favorite part. Graham and Misty's romance was rough and had lots of interruptions and bumps, but I liked them together.
All in all, this was an exciting read and has me eager to grab up more from the series. Paranormal Romance fans particularly those who love shifters should definitely give these a try.
My thanks to Penguin Group for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story is part of a creative world where shifters came out to the humans, the humans freaked, and now shifters are treated as less than second-class citizens, shunted to reservation-like towns and forced to wear control collars. Shifters aren't the only supernaturals, but just the ones that are known.
The story begins with Graham McNeil, an alpha wolf shifter, and his clan of shifters forced out of their shifter town in Northern Nevada and forced to integrate with another shifter town pack outside Las Vegas because the humans want to consolidate. It's a hard integration because his pack is close to feral and were already struggling with the adjustment of being forced into a shifter town after the freedom of the wild let alone now being forced to move again. Humans don't get that Graham is an alpha in his own right and can't just defer to the alpha of the town just because. There is also the fact that his unstable pack needs him to take a mate and secure their future leadership. Graham is already pushing things with his human girl friend, Misty. He knows that he eventually has to mate another shifter, but it is to Misty with her acceptance, her smiles, and her tender heart that he is drawn. And when Misty is in trouble, he will do anything he can for her.
Misty loves her flower shop and enjoys dating the big gruff wolf shifter who puts fear and caution on the faces of ever human and shifter he encounters. He is loud, obnoxious and has no tender side, but she cares for him deeply and wishes that their relationship stood a chance of growing into something solid. Misty knows the score with Graham. Then her life takes a turn for the bad when a gang run by an ex-con who her brother screwed over while inside prison destroys her shop, assaults her and threatens to do much worse if she doesn't tell him where her brother is. Misty tricks him into letting her phone her brother when she is really calling Graham. Her rescue takes place and she gets to see Graham in all his alpha wolf glory, but learns that someone else orchestrated all this to trap a shifter. Now Misty is drawn into Graham's world and they must figure out a way to work together if they are to get out of this new trouble. In the meantime, they are both confounded by growing feelings of attachment and attraction that make it impossible to imagine a future separation.
This story was exciting, humorous, hot, intriguing, and just an all around good time. I loved the creative worldbuilding and the engaging characters. The plot moved along at a good pace and I loved the intense, tight corners the author put the characters in and the imaginative solutions. The misfit family that Graham had with his nephew and the twin foster cubs along with Misty was my favorite part. Graham and Misty's romance was rough and had lots of interruptions and bumps, but I liked them together.
All in all, this was an exciting read and has me eager to grab up more from the series. Paranormal Romance fans particularly those who love shifters should definitely give these a try.
My thanks to Penguin Group for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 23, 2016
Actually 3.75stars
Misty Granger has a bit of trouble with gangsters looking for her recently released from prison brother, Paul. When Misty won't tell the gangsters where Paul is they decide to beat her and take her to the desert to kill her Just before the gangsters break into Mindy's shop, she manages to call Graham, desperate for his help. Graham arrives too late and Misty is gone, but later she is able to trick the gangsters into calling Graham.
Dougal and Graham arrive to rescue Misty and handily put down the gangsters but not before Graham is shot. Trying to save Graham, Misty gives him water she received from a stranger in one of the hidden caves. After only one sip, Graham throws the water away and turns on Misty angrily for bringing it to him. Upset at Graham's behavior, Misty breaks off their relationship. Mindy had no idea the water was bespelled nor did she know she'd accidently placed herself and possibly Graham under Fae control. A new insidious plot by the Fae comes to light putting all Shiftertown's on alert.
Graham plate is full as he keeps trying to find an alternate solution to the problem facing his pack. The increase in dominance challenges brought on by the change in collars keeps Graham perpetually alert and aware of possible ambushes. While Graham has not yet mate claimed Misty physically, he already has with his heart which prevents his interest in pursuing one of the available lupine females. Since Graham's pack is mostly feral and follow the old rules, Graham's death without a direct heir would put leadership on his nephew which the pack see's as an easy & submissive target. The solution for all of these would be for Graham to take a lupine mate and produce cubs. But of course Graham will not be denied Misty.
I liked gruff Graham fairly well when he and Misty were introduced in Wild Wolfbut don't think the harsh light of a star turn improved his character. On the other hand I didn't care for Misty when she was introduced nor throughout this read. (IMO) Graham read as extremely grumpy and Misty was just flat. I didn't believe in their relationship and didn't think they had much chemistry. Unfortunately I also felt sex was used for a crutch for this couple. A closer glimpse at Graham's household showed a softer side of him, but that was just less grumpy.
The Fae, while good villains, didn't seem nefarious enough and had few appearances based on the scope of their plan. The gangsters after Misty and her brother were good but were not in the read long enough. All of that being said, I think I would have better appreciated a novella for Graham's tale because there seemed to be a fair amount of filler or maybe it was just because I didn't connect with Graham and Misty.
Misty Granger has a bit of trouble with gangsters looking for her recently released from prison brother, Paul. When Misty won't tell the gangsters where Paul is they decide to beat her and take her to the desert to kill her Just before the gangsters break into Mindy's shop, she manages to call Graham, desperate for his help. Graham arrives too late and Misty is gone, but later she is able to trick the gangsters into calling Graham.
Dougal and Graham arrive to rescue Misty and handily put down the gangsters but not before Graham is shot. Trying to save Graham, Misty gives him water she received from a stranger in one of the hidden caves. After only one sip, Graham throws the water away and turns on Misty angrily for bringing it to him. Upset at Graham's behavior, Misty breaks off their relationship. Mindy had no idea the water was bespelled nor did she know she'd accidently placed herself and possibly Graham under Fae control. A new insidious plot by the Fae comes to light putting all Shiftertown's on alert.
Graham plate is full as he keeps trying to find an alternate solution to the problem facing his pack. The increase in dominance challenges brought on by the change in collars keeps Graham perpetually alert and aware of possible ambushes. While Graham has not yet mate claimed Misty physically, he already has with his heart which prevents his interest in pursuing one of the available lupine females. Since Graham's pack is mostly feral and follow the old rules, Graham's death without a direct heir would put leadership on his nephew which the pack see's as an easy & submissive target. The solution for all of these would be for Graham to take a lupine mate and produce cubs. But of course Graham will not be denied Misty.
I liked gruff Graham fairly well when he and Misty were introduced in Wild Wolfbut don't think the harsh light of a star turn improved his character. On the other hand I didn't care for Misty when she was introduced nor throughout this read. (IMO) Graham read as extremely grumpy and Misty was just flat. I didn't believe in their relationship and didn't think they had much chemistry. Unfortunately I also felt sex was used for a crutch for this couple. A closer glimpse at Graham's household showed a softer side of him, but that was just less grumpy.
The Fae, while good villains, didn't seem nefarious enough and had few appearances based on the scope of their plan. The gangsters after Misty and her brother were good but were not in the read long enough. All of that being said, I think I would have better appreciated a novella for Graham's tale because there seemed to be a fair amount of filler or maybe it was just because I didn't connect with Graham and Misty.
August 12, 2022
Wild Wolf
3.5 Stars
Graham McNeil, co-leader of the Las Vegas Shiftertown, has his hands full with an unstable pack reluctantly acclimating to a new environment, a submissive teenage nephew and two unruly wolf cubs whose mission in life is to get into trouble. The one bright light in his life is Misty Granger, a human woman, who calms his wolf and stokes his passions. But when a new threat emerges to place both Misty and his pack in danger, Graham will have to take steps the thwart it or lose Misty forever.
Some interesting developments in the ongoing shifter/fae story arc, but Graham and Misty’s romance falls flat.
As the story begins, Graham and Misty have been in a relationship for a few months, but have yet to establish either a physical or emotional intimacy. Consequently, the sudden progression of their romance feels forced as it is unclear what either one sees in the other. Although Misty is sweet and likable, there is nothing in her rather bland personality to explain Graham’s intense attraction to her. Similarly, Graham’s appeal is also debatable as he spends a great deal of time running hot and cold - both accepting the idea of a connection with Misty while at the same time pushing her away with harsh words and a dismissive attitude.
The fae collar conspiracy progresses further in this installment with more details on the fae’s nefarious agenda. The villain is particularly nasty and his ability to inflict physical as well as psychological damage ratchets up the tension and suspense.
Alongside cameo appearances by characters from previous installments (which is always a highlight), there are also some new and intriguing additions to the growing cast, but it is the adorable twin cubs, Kyle and Matt, who steal the show.
All in all, worth reading for the plot developments but the romance is one of the weaker in the series. The next book focuses on a different characters in a new shiftertown. I hope the series does not lose momentum by moving into unknown areas.
3.5 Stars
Graham McNeil, co-leader of the Las Vegas Shiftertown, has his hands full with an unstable pack reluctantly acclimating to a new environment, a submissive teenage nephew and two unruly wolf cubs whose mission in life is to get into trouble. The one bright light in his life is Misty Granger, a human woman, who calms his wolf and stokes his passions. But when a new threat emerges to place both Misty and his pack in danger, Graham will have to take steps the thwart it or lose Misty forever.
Some interesting developments in the ongoing shifter/fae story arc, but Graham and Misty’s romance falls flat.
As the story begins, Graham and Misty have been in a relationship for a few months, but have yet to establish either a physical or emotional intimacy. Consequently, the sudden progression of their romance feels forced as it is unclear what either one sees in the other. Although Misty is sweet and likable, there is nothing in her rather bland personality to explain Graham’s intense attraction to her. Similarly, Graham’s appeal is also debatable as he spends a great deal of time running hot and cold - both accepting the idea of a connection with Misty while at the same time pushing her away with harsh words and a dismissive attitude.
The fae collar conspiracy progresses further in this installment with more details on the fae’s nefarious agenda. The villain is particularly nasty and his ability to inflict physical as well as psychological damage ratchets up the tension and suspense.
Alongside cameo appearances by characters from previous installments (which is always a highlight), there are also some new and intriguing additions to the growing cast, but it is the adorable twin cubs, Kyle and Matt, who steal the show.
All in all, worth reading for the plot developments but the romance is one of the weaker in the series. The next book focuses on a different characters in a new shiftertown. I hope the series does not lose momentum by moving into unknown areas.
May 7, 2020
After re-reading the books I have in this series and a few new ones I picked up, I can say honestly that it lacks passion. Sure there’s drama and well planned plots and action scenes. But looking through all these books, the sex is a bit dull. It always consists of burning desires, followed by a longer courtship by a over protective male. Eventually they all get a minor sexually release (fingering) followed by romantic sex or love making. But it’s always this same pattern. These characters are suppose to be in mating heat. It’s so vanilla it’s a bean. There’s no animalistic drive of passion. No real build up of sexual frustration that explodes into hot sizzling sex up against a door or on a desk while the items fly off everywhere. It’s to the point its just a scene that most are just “meh” and skipped over without second thought or anything worthy to recall.
But other than that it’s a four star for me.
But other than that it’s a four star for me.
June 11, 2017
Misty and Graham made for one perfect duo. They worked well together and played even better. Graham hot, sexy, rugged,alpha with a chip on his shoulder and a protective streak just a wide as that chip. This one lived up to all the hype behind it. There was so much here and then some. Great addition to the Shifters Unbound collection.
April 4, 2014
Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads
Blog rating: B
Graham, the leader of his pack is still trying to find common ground with Eric Warden and his pack since their forced merger into one large Shiftertown. Eric is the leader but Graham still has to prove dominance over his own wolves to keep control and to keep his nephew, who needs constant support and reassurance, safe. He’s also being forced to pick a mate. But his eye is set on a human, Misty. He hasn’t mate-claimed her, but the more he’s around her and especially when her life is in jeopardy, he can’t hold himself back and their romance hits fast and hard as the mate-claim comes for Graham and can’t be stopped. But Misty doesn’t accept right away and it puts Graham’s life on the line when he’s caught in a Fae’s spell that will impact all shifters through their collars.
Misty doesn’t have an easy go of it right from page one. She’s attacked in her flower shop by a man her brother came across in prison. Her brother’s out now and this man wants him. They trash Misty’s store and take her, wanting a meeting with her brother. Misty, who keeps her head during the most extreme situations, fools them by calling Graham instead of her brother, and Graham comes to help her. During the rescue process, Graham is injured and when Misty tries to find help, she runs into a stranger, a very dangerous stranger, who wants her to drink his water (never drink the water!) and with Graham badly injured, Misty gives him the water too, but it’s too late and the stranger, a dangerous Fae, traps Graham under his spell. The spell’s main purpose is detailed out as the story progresses but a segment of the Fae plan to use the shifters through their collars to start a war that will put them fully in power.
I found myself really caught up in Misty and Graham’s relationship. There’s something intriguing about it – she’s a human in this world where shifters aren’t completely welcome, they still have to live separated from humans in their own Shiftertown’s. And they’re still dealing with the collars (collars that activate at any sign of aggression from the shifters, although the humans don’t know that they’re starting to find ways around the painful effects of the collar). Misty isn’t prejudice against the shifters and has in fact been dating Graham for a few months. Graham has refused up to this point to start a sexual relationship with Misty because she’s full human and he’s expected to mate with another shifter, have shifter babies and secure his family’s legacy with his alpha status. But, he can’t keep denying the urge he has to be with Misty and knowing deep down that she is his mate, regardless of the fact that she’s human. I liked seeing a softer side to Graham. We hadn’t gotten that in previous books, he was just the alpha of a Shiftertown that was forced into being merged with Eric’s town and they butted heads a lot. But here we see Graham’s feelings for Misty, how much he cares and how much he cares about his nephew and his people in general.
Misty was a very likable character. For as much stuff that gets thrown at her, she takes it all pretty much in stride and deals with things the best she can, which is saying something considering she doesn’t know a lot about shifters and their instincts which comes up a lot regarding Graham and his actions toward her. I liked how their romance played out on page and I’m kind of a sucker for a shifter who just can’t deny his feelings for the woman who’s meant to be his mate. It’s fun to see him try, but we all know how that will always play out.
The Fae storyline provides the main conflict in this story as they’re trying to get the shifters under their spell so they can control them through the collars. It brings in many past characters as this has the potential to impact every one of them. I felt like this Fae vs. the shifters was interesting, the fight scenes were engaging but I guess I’m kind of getting tired of the collar aspect. I know it’s a huge part of this series and what makes it stand out from other paranormal books out there, but there’s always constant talk about the collars and how the shifters are close to either just getting them off or wearing fake collars, but nothing major gets resolved with that yet again.
This series overall has been hit or miss for me lately, but Wild Wolf was a hit. I was caught up in Misty and Graham’s lives, their romance and their roles in the Fae’s plan to take control of the shifters. It’s a solid read that brought back me back into the series with renewed interest.
Blog rating: B
Graham, the leader of his pack is still trying to find common ground with Eric Warden and his pack since their forced merger into one large Shiftertown. Eric is the leader but Graham still has to prove dominance over his own wolves to keep control and to keep his nephew, who needs constant support and reassurance, safe. He’s also being forced to pick a mate. But his eye is set on a human, Misty. He hasn’t mate-claimed her, but the more he’s around her and especially when her life is in jeopardy, he can’t hold himself back and their romance hits fast and hard as the mate-claim comes for Graham and can’t be stopped. But Misty doesn’t accept right away and it puts Graham’s life on the line when he’s caught in a Fae’s spell that will impact all shifters through their collars.
Misty doesn’t have an easy go of it right from page one. She’s attacked in her flower shop by a man her brother came across in prison. Her brother’s out now and this man wants him. They trash Misty’s store and take her, wanting a meeting with her brother. Misty, who keeps her head during the most extreme situations, fools them by calling Graham instead of her brother, and Graham comes to help her. During the rescue process, Graham is injured and when Misty tries to find help, she runs into a stranger, a very dangerous stranger, who wants her to drink his water (never drink the water!) and with Graham badly injured, Misty gives him the water too, but it’s too late and the stranger, a dangerous Fae, traps Graham under his spell. The spell’s main purpose is detailed out as the story progresses but a segment of the Fae plan to use the shifters through their collars to start a war that will put them fully in power.
I found myself really caught up in Misty and Graham’s relationship. There’s something intriguing about it – she’s a human in this world where shifters aren’t completely welcome, they still have to live separated from humans in their own Shiftertown’s. And they’re still dealing with the collars (collars that activate at any sign of aggression from the shifters, although the humans don’t know that they’re starting to find ways around the painful effects of the collar). Misty isn’t prejudice against the shifters and has in fact been dating Graham for a few months. Graham has refused up to this point to start a sexual relationship with Misty because she’s full human and he’s expected to mate with another shifter, have shifter babies and secure his family’s legacy with his alpha status. But, he can’t keep denying the urge he has to be with Misty and knowing deep down that she is his mate, regardless of the fact that she’s human. I liked seeing a softer side to Graham. We hadn’t gotten that in previous books, he was just the alpha of a Shiftertown that was forced into being merged with Eric’s town and they butted heads a lot. But here we see Graham’s feelings for Misty, how much he cares and how much he cares about his nephew and his people in general.
Misty was a very likable character. For as much stuff that gets thrown at her, she takes it all pretty much in stride and deals with things the best she can, which is saying something considering she doesn’t know a lot about shifters and their instincts which comes up a lot regarding Graham and his actions toward her. I liked how their romance played out on page and I’m kind of a sucker for a shifter who just can’t deny his feelings for the woman who’s meant to be his mate. It’s fun to see him try, but we all know how that will always play out.
The Fae storyline provides the main conflict in this story as they’re trying to get the shifters under their spell so they can control them through the collars. It brings in many past characters as this has the potential to impact every one of them. I felt like this Fae vs. the shifters was interesting, the fight scenes were engaging but I guess I’m kind of getting tired of the collar aspect. I know it’s a huge part of this series and what makes it stand out from other paranormal books out there, but there’s always constant talk about the collars and how the shifters are close to either just getting them off or wearing fake collars, but nothing major gets resolved with that yet again.
This series overall has been hit or miss for me lately, but Wild Wolf was a hit. I was caught up in Misty and Graham’s lives, their romance and their roles in the Fae’s plan to take control of the shifters. It’s a solid read that brought back me back into the series with renewed interest.
September 14, 2014
Compared to the other books -- where instant-love is very strong -- I must say that Graham and Misty's story pretty much has been going on for awhile. Misty first appeared in the 4th book (Eric's story) so for me, the foreplay had basically gone for almost a year. Nothing instant about that *grin*.
Added with Graham being a very interesting character who was developed for more than just black and white anti-hero -- he started in book #3, a thorn in Eric's ass, and pretty much being a bit antagonistic -- and a new progress in the Fae-Shifter mythology, it created a quite fast-paced action-romance driven that made this book one of my favorites of the series as well.
Graham and Misty were GREAT. I already loved Graham for being a bit shade of grey. Graham ended up showing his more heroic feature in this book, not just plain antagonistic, but he still yelled a lot *haha*. I loved his favorite quote, "Suck on it!". Misty was the right strong heroine for him. She didn't back down from challenge. When she must helped Graham fight the fae, oh, she showed her sass and smart move all right. I loved her determination. Plus she now master spells with the help of her knowledge of flowers!! That was so cool!
I really enjoyed the take on the Fae myth this time -- usually when the story took on the Fae element (like in book #2) it became too detached for me to enjoy. But this time, it worked really well -- the threat to the Shifters race, the key behind their Collar magic, and why it seemed that the Fae are starting to make their moves, it was fun and intriguing!! I loved the 'additional' players as well, like Ben () and true identity of the orphan cubs Matt and Kyle ().
So the last two books of this series are good ... definitely will be there for the next sequel.
Added with Graham being a very interesting character who was developed for more than just black and white anti-hero -- he started in book #3, a thorn in Eric's ass, and pretty much being a bit antagonistic -- and a new progress in the Fae-Shifter mythology, it created a quite fast-paced action-romance driven that made this book one of my favorites of the series as well.
Graham and Misty were GREAT. I already loved Graham for being a bit shade of grey. Graham ended up showing his more heroic feature in this book, not just plain antagonistic, but he still yelled a lot *haha*. I loved his favorite quote, "Suck on it!". Misty was the right strong heroine for him. She didn't back down from challenge. When she must helped Graham fight the fae, oh, she showed her sass and smart move all right. I loved her determination. Plus she now master spells with the help of her knowledge of flowers!! That was so cool!
I really enjoyed the take on the Fae myth this time -- usually when the story took on the Fae element (like in book #2) it became too detached for me to enjoy. But this time, it worked really well -- the threat to the Shifters race, the key behind their Collar magic, and why it seemed that the Fae are starting to make their moves, it was fun and intriguing!! I loved the 'additional' players as well, like Ben () and true identity of the orphan cubs Matt and Kyle ().
So the last two books of this series are good ... definitely will be there for the next sequel.
October 19, 2017
Graham wasn't one of my favorite shifters up until this point. He was unhappy with not being Shiftertown leader and had a chip on his shoulder about it. However, in Wild Wolf we see him more with his individual pack and the bond he has with some of them. Unfortunately, he has to keep his personal relationship apart from the pack since she is a human. Being the Alpha, his mate must be with another wolf. They've been throwing themselves at him, but he's resisted and stuck with his girlfriend Misty. He does know that at some point he's going to have to break her heart and accept his fate. Knowing all this put him in a different light for me. He wasn't the strong-willed bully trying to take over Shiftertown, there was a lot more to him. I grew to like his character more throughout the book. He looks out for his pack, and even takes in the little ones that give their foster mom too hard of a time. They are cute but sure are a handful!
Not all turmoil is in the mate department. Someone is messing with Shifters and Graham ends up in the middle of it. It is up to him to find a way to stop what is happening, or shifters are going to be in big trouble. The mystery worked itself up to a point where I was really worried for Graham. It was really surprising who comes to his aid. It was a tense battle, and more than a little heart stopping at times. The secret that is revealed though will be one that is not resolved easily. We meet a new being, definitely not fae, who will fight with the Shifters. He is going to be a very mysterious character for sure.
I really enjoyed Graham and Misty's story. Graham steps up to the plate when the time comes to make his mate decision and takes on those of the pack not willing to accept his choice. Despite being human, Misty just fits as Graham's mate and the pack has to see that.
Wild Wolf was definitely a great listen. Emotions were well narrated and Graham's inner turmoil really came through. It is going to be interesting to see how this story arc plays out and how it affects the plans of secretly removing collars.
The Series
This review was originally posted on Rantings of a Reading Addict
Not all turmoil is in the mate department. Someone is messing with Shifters and Graham ends up in the middle of it. It is up to him to find a way to stop what is happening, or shifters are going to be in big trouble. The mystery worked itself up to a point where I was really worried for Graham. It was really surprising who comes to his aid. It was a tense battle, and more than a little heart stopping at times. The secret that is revealed though will be one that is not resolved easily. We meet a new being, definitely not fae, who will fight with the Shifters. He is going to be a very mysterious character for sure.
I really enjoyed Graham and Misty's story. Graham steps up to the plate when the time comes to make his mate decision and takes on those of the pack not willing to accept his choice. Despite being human, Misty just fits as Graham's mate and the pack has to see that.
Wild Wolf was definitely a great listen. Emotions were well narrated and Graham's inner turmoil really came through. It is going to be interesting to see how this story arc plays out and how it affects the plans of secretly removing collars.
The Series
March 29, 2014
I know I’m not alone when I say as a long time fan of Shifters Unbound; I have waited for Graham McNeil to have his story told.
Ever since Graham’s pack were forced from their home in the wild to join with the Nevada Shiftertown, there has been a tenuous relationship between Graham and Eric Warden, the Shiftertown leader, and even Graham’s own pack.
But Graham’s well known arrogant, hard arse, take no crap attitude has helped him keep control, though at times it may be tenuous, over his barely stable pack.
However, as is always the norm when you force captivity and confined spaces on a free and spirited race; situations can very quickly become combustible.
While assessing his true feeling for a woman he has kept at arms length, Graham will face challenges to his position, a foe hell bent on total domination, family responsibilities that threaten his very sanity, and an all consuming need to claim and protect the one person he should never have involved in his volatile life.
Graham’s very existence has revolved around survival for a very long time, and that’s not about to change anytime soon!
WILD WOLF has all the necessary elements that make a Jennifer Ashley story un-put-down-able, so when you do sit down to read this book, make sure you are not planning on going anywhere; as with all Ms Ashley’s stories, WILD WOLF will hold you captive from the very first chapter; and only release you when its done.
Ever since Graham’s pack were forced from their home in the wild to join with the Nevada Shiftertown, there has been a tenuous relationship between Graham and Eric Warden, the Shiftertown leader, and even Graham’s own pack.
But Graham’s well known arrogant, hard arse, take no crap attitude has helped him keep control, though at times it may be tenuous, over his barely stable pack.
However, as is always the norm when you force captivity and confined spaces on a free and spirited race; situations can very quickly become combustible.
While assessing his true feeling for a woman he has kept at arms length, Graham will face challenges to his position, a foe hell bent on total domination, family responsibilities that threaten his very sanity, and an all consuming need to claim and protect the one person he should never have involved in his volatile life.
Graham’s very existence has revolved around survival for a very long time, and that’s not about to change anytime soon!
WILD WOLF has all the necessary elements that make a Jennifer Ashley story un-put-down-able, so when you do sit down to read this book, make sure you are not planning on going anywhere; as with all Ms Ashley’s stories, WILD WOLF will hold you captive from the very first chapter; and only release you when its done.
June 10, 2022
Another great read in Ashley's Shifters Unbound series. As always, loved Ashley's worldbuilding and lore. There's so much juicy conflict in this series to bite into. A very exciting shifter world.
My biggest complaint with this one was the female lead. Misty just...eh...I could take her or leave her. She was mostly just 'meh.' But holy crap, the way she eats made me want to throw her out a window. Lady, just eat your damn food without performing fellatio on it. Gross. Maybe it's because I'm always grossed out watching other people eat, but the descriptions of Misty licking ice cream (on a SPOON not a cone) made me want to vomit. Also, Misty is a huge slob who is always dribbling food on herself and has food on her mouth after eating. I can tell it was supposed to be sexy...it grossed me out. A lot.
Other than her disgusting table manners, Misty wasn't awful. I just didn't particularly like her either.
My biggest complaint with this one was the female lead. Misty just...eh...I could take her or leave her. She was mostly just 'meh.' But holy crap, the way she eats made me want to throw her out a window. Lady, just eat your damn food without performing fellatio on it. Gross. Maybe it's because I'm always grossed out watching other people eat, but the descriptions of Misty licking ice cream (on a SPOON not a cone) made me want to vomit. Also, Misty is a huge slob who is always dribbling food on herself and has food on her mouth after eating. I can tell it was supposed to be sexy...it grossed me out. A lot.
Other than her disgusting table manners, Misty wasn't awful. I just didn't particularly like her either.
April 10, 2016
A great and passionate story of a great and passionate big wolf, Graham, trying to balance his alpha pack leadership with his love for a human, Misty. This sassy and brave florist is the one for him, the one with enough love to make
Graham to realize there is no need to be alone... With his nephew, the terrible twins and the help of the others Shifter leaders, they are able to defeat the Fae and figure out a secret that needs to be contained. Adventures, new characters and sizzle love, three important things to make a series to be worthy.
Graham to realize there is no need to be alone... With his nephew, the terrible twins and the help of the others Shifter leaders, they are able to defeat the Fae and figure out a secret that needs to be contained. Adventures, new characters and sizzle love, three important things to make a series to be worthy.
April 15, 2014
While I did like this one, I did get tired of Graham and his autocratic ways. What really saved the book for me was the twins, Matt and Kyle. They were such little troublemakers, but you couldn't help to not care. Part of me was surprised by what we found out about them, yet not really. I also found Ben to be very interesting. I hope that we see more with him, he brings about a whole new set of possibilities.
June 22, 2014
As an Alpha in Shiftertown, Graham feels the expectations from his pack, to mate with a wolf and procreate, for the stability of the pack.
Too bad the feelings he´s got for his human girlfriend gets in the way.
When they both fall under a fey spell, danger threatens all of Shiftertown. Could Misty be the one thing that saves him?
Shifters, action, PNR and smutty fluff in a great combo. Love this series!
Too bad the feelings he´s got for his human girlfriend gets in the way.
When they both fall under a fey spell, danger threatens all of Shiftertown. Could Misty be the one thing that saves him?
Shifters, action, PNR and smutty fluff in a great combo. Love this series!
December 5, 2015
I am amazed the series I started and really had issues with has turned into a great series with interesting lovable characters. I am glad I stuck with it.
Again a great story line with lots of interest and hot sex! I really enjoyed the plot and how it all unveiled itself. Graham is a complicated guy but so loving under that hard shell. Misty is tough and takes no BS! Loved it. I want twin wolf cubs too!
Again expensive book and yet again I borrowed from my bestie!
Again a great story line with lots of interest and hot sex! I really enjoyed the plot and how it all unveiled itself. Graham is a complicated guy but so loving under that hard shell. Misty is tough and takes no BS! Loved it. I want twin wolf cubs too!
Again expensive book and yet again I borrowed from my bestie!
April 22, 2021
This is a great series. I haven't been reading in order - I think it would be even better if I did, but I usually pick up these books for a challenge and pick the one that fits. Graham McNeil is a wolf shifter, in charge of a group that has been relocated from Elko to the LV shiftertown. He's been dating human Misty but keeping his distance emotionally, since he knows he has to claim a shifter to keep his pack happy. Then Misty gets kidnapped, Fae get involved and the pair have to fight to keep the shifters from being killed by Fae. Throw in two rambunctious cubs and the story was non-stop adventure and excitement.
April 15, 2018
Graham & Misty.
Grrrrr...if someone said to you, "That guy went feral." I'm 100% sure you'd know what that means. Jennifer Ashley has made her humans dumb as dirt!!! Graham was not worthy of Misty, he's more than a curmudgeon. He's a dick, a rude dick. He's passion for the twins was his only saving grace. The story was messy at best. The twins were the BEST part of this book. I fact the twins knocked it up to 3-stars because they were two hoots.
Grrrrr...if someone said to you, "That guy went feral." I'm 100% sure you'd know what that means. Jennifer Ashley has made her humans dumb as dirt!!! Graham was not worthy of Misty, he's more than a curmudgeon. He's a dick, a rude dick. He's passion for the twins was his only saving grace. The story was messy at best. The twins were the BEST part of this book. I fact the twins knocked it up to 3-stars because they were two hoots.
September 29, 2021
I was so looking forward to this book and I am happy to say that it was as good as I had hoped. The mixture of the grumpy alpha that yells about everything but is super kind, the sweet heroine, cute yet exhausting 3 years old twins that turns into cute wolf cubs plus lots of action made a very nice book.
April 23, 2014
*Stops to pet the pretty, pretty cover.* Gah. I love this series. Ashley is one of my favorites when it comes to sexy and intriguing paranormal romances. And Graham and Misty's story totally rocked my Shifter loving world. From the action and danger surrounding the Shifter community to the incredible bite-your-lip romance I was ALL in as these two fought to save the people they love most.
The quick of it is that wolf Shifter Graham is in a spot. He's gotten himself spelled by a Fae and that's a bitch of a place to be seeing they can find you anywhere and pretty much make you do whatever they want. But in being spelled a deeper plot against the Shifters and their survival is revealed that threatens everything the Shifters hold dear. It was...pretty damn exciting to say the least. *nods*
Graham's a total alpha wolf. He's a badass, growly and grumbly and is just so damn...lickable. Yes. I said...lick-a-ble. Just look...to the right. Mmhm. Lickable.I just loved this guy. How he'd get exasperated when any of his people put themselves in danger, how he was with the wolf cubs in his care and with his nephew--comforting them but teaching them to be tough too. How he was gentle with and cherished Misty even if he couldn't admit his full emotions towards her lordy when he finally threw down and stopped being gentle with her. Holy yummy wolf shifter. I mean. He could just make a girl orgasm with a look. Whew!
And Misty was so the heroine for Graham. She's one chickie that does not give up and refuses to back down from those trying to intimidate her. Including Graham. He so needed that. Someone who wasn't afraid of his grumbly ass and loved him for just who he was. She's a natural nurturer and was so sweet with the wolf cubs. I absolutely adored her and yall know I have a hard time with heroines so really saying something.
Alright so one of the little side things is a set of twin wolf cubs that have been orphaned and are...terrors and now in the care of Graham. I so have a weakness for cubs. And these two boys were freaking darling even if they were wild and would give a girl some added gray hairs. I really hope one day down the line they'll get a book when they're all grown up. They're gonna be something else! They're also part of the reason I fell so hard for both Graham and Misty. They had me near tears a couple of times over these little wolf cubs and how they were with them. Huge thing in the plot? Not really (though they do play a nice role in things) but it's one of those added bits to the story that makes me love Ashley's writing so much. Action, danger, lust and excitement sure. But romance and family and the bonds between everyone are just as important and wonderfully portrayed.
All in all, Wild Wolf...was just an incredible Shifter romance. The action was exciting and kept me reading as the Fae mess with the Shifters and most specifically Graham. There were a couple ahhh omg! moments as scenes went down that had my palms sweating just a bit and my heart racing. Add in a touch of magic with spells, some new mythological beings and a heroine hell bent and determined to save what's hers and it was just an excellent ride that was sensual, funny and down right entertaining!
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
The quick of it is that wolf Shifter Graham is in a spot. He's gotten himself spelled by a Fae and that's a bitch of a place to be seeing they can find you anywhere and pretty much make you do whatever they want. But in being spelled a deeper plot against the Shifters and their survival is revealed that threatens everything the Shifters hold dear. It was...pretty damn exciting to say the least. *nods*
**Matt and Kyle are wolf cubs and things have gotten pretty dangerous in this scene...
"Why the hell are Kyle and Matt here?" Graham demanded. Kyle was trying to help pull away the vines, while Matt was busy likcking the ground around a crumpled bag of what used to be chips.
"Ben said they had to come." Dougal shrugged. "I don't know why."
"Ben?" Graham roared. "Goddess, get me loose. I need to strangle some people."
Graham's a total alpha wolf. He's a badass, growly and grumbly and is just so damn...lickable. Yes. I said...lick-a-ble. Just look...to the right. Mmhm. Lickable.I just loved this guy. How he'd get exasperated when any of his people put themselves in danger, how he was with the wolf cubs in his care and with his nephew--comforting them but teaching them to be tough too. How he was gentle with and cherished Misty even if he couldn't admit his full emotions towards her lordy when he finally threw down and stopped being gentle with her. Holy yummy wolf shifter. I mean. He could just make a girl orgasm with a look. Whew!
And Misty was so the heroine for Graham. She's one chickie that does not give up and refuses to back down from those trying to intimidate her. Including Graham. He so needed that. Someone who wasn't afraid of his grumbly ass and loved him for just who he was. She's a natural nurturer and was so sweet with the wolf cubs. I absolutely adored her and yall know I have a hard time with heroines so really saying something.
Alright so one of the little side things is a set of twin wolf cubs that have been orphaned and are...terrors and now in the care of Graham. I so have a weakness for cubs. And these two boys were freaking darling even if they were wild and would give a girl some added gray hairs. I really hope one day down the line they'll get a book when they're all grown up. They're gonna be something else! They're also part of the reason I fell so hard for both Graham and Misty. They had me near tears a couple of times over these little wolf cubs and how they were with them. Huge thing in the plot? Not really (though they do play a nice role in things) but it's one of those added bits to the story that makes me love Ashley's writing so much. Action, danger, lust and excitement sure. But romance and family and the bonds between everyone are just as important and wonderfully portrayed.
All in all, Wild Wolf...was just an incredible Shifter romance. The action was exciting and kept me reading as the Fae mess with the Shifters and most specifically Graham. There were a couple ahhh omg! moments as scenes went down that had my palms sweating just a bit and my heart racing. Add in a touch of magic with spells, some new mythological beings and a heroine hell bent and determined to save what's hers and it was just an excellent ride that was sensual, funny and down right entertaining!
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
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