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Coveted #3
Compelled
Natalya Stravinsky is about to face her greatest challenge yet…
For the past five years, Natalya Stravinsky has dreamed of two things: to rejoin the South Toms River werewolf pack and to be reunited with Thorn Grantham. Fate may have brought the pack back into her life, but unless she journeys to Russia to save Thorn, the love she’s found may be lost again. For a stubborn werewolf like Natalya, no distance is too far, no magic spell too complex to master, because one way or another she will find a way to have everything she has ever wanted.
For the past five years, Natalya Stravinsky has dreamed of two things: to rejoin the South Toms River werewolf pack and to be reunited with Thorn Grantham. Fate may have brought the pack back into her life, but unless she journeys to Russia to save Thorn, the love she’s found may be lost again. For a stubborn werewolf like Natalya, no distance is too far, no magic spell too complex to master, because one way or another she will find a way to have everything she has ever wanted.
203 pages, Paperback
First published May 3, 2014
46 people are currently reading
795 people want to read
About the author
Shawntelle Madison
39 books479 followersShawntelle Madison is a web developer who loves to weave words as well as code. She’d never admit it, but if asked she’d say she covets and collects source code. After losing her first summer job detassling corn, Shawntelle performed various jobs—from fast-food clerk to grunt programmer to university webmaster. Writing eccentric characters is her most favorite job of them all. On any particular day when she’s not surgically attached to her computer, she can be found watching cheesy horror movies or the latest action-packed anime. She lives in Missouri with her husband and children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
August 6, 2016
Talk Supe Review
How things had changed.
This is an apt description for COMPELLED by Shawntelle Madison, the last book of her Coveted series. I've been looking forward to this book because the first two, Coveted and Kept, blew me away. Sadly COMPELLED left me wanting and here's why.
My first reaction after reading COMPELLED was what happened?! Kept was such a badass sequel and Natalya Stravinsky really did a complete 180 in that book. However I hardly recognized her in this series finale. Granted that she's now the Alpha female of her pack but gone are the little nuances that made Natalya a stand-out heroine. For one, Nat has OCD and she has a thing for hoarding and order among other things and a Nat who can easily forgo basic hygiene just doesn't add up for me. Yes this critic can be viewed as being nitpicky but if you're a follower of this series, Nat's OCD played a huge role in her life and like I said, this and her introverted personality is what made Nat quite the reluctant but endearing heroine. Though I appreciate Nat growing into a butt kicking heroine, Nat from Kept to Nat in COMPELLED are almost two different characters and that question above kept reverberating in my head throughout the novel.
Aside from an unrecognizable Natalya Stravinsky, her consort, Thorn, was pretty much absent in this final novel. Granted that Nat's his savior now, as the Alpha, I was expecting him to play a bigger role than an invalid spouse. Nick, the wizard who played a major role in both Coveted and Kept is MIA as well, the man simply vanished with a too simple explanation that he's out pursuing personal stuff.
Now COMPELLED wasn't all bad, per usual, SMadison delivered in the action/adventure department. The war between warlocks and wizards was intense and it involved a lot of badass magic and more badass characters. Nat's time in Russia was a great change from the usual small-town setting of Coveted, lending it an exotic and more deadly feel. Ultimately Nat's mission to save Thorn from a deathly curse was a success so everything ended happily for the lovers.
Overall COMPELLED felt like a rushed ending. I feel like there should be one more book between Kept and COMPELLED to bridge the gaps I mentioned above. Maybe it's just me but I feel like there could've been more to the story but for some reason, SMadison ended the series. And she did so in haste IMO. SMadison is usually very thorough with her world-building and myth but things aren't as defined in COMPELLED as compared to the previous books. So it is with a heavy heart that I bid this series adieu, thankfully there's Repossessed, a spin-off of this series and hopefully this latest release will fill the void Coveted left.
How things had changed.
This is an apt description for COMPELLED by Shawntelle Madison, the last book of her Coveted series. I've been looking forward to this book because the first two, Coveted and Kept, blew me away. Sadly COMPELLED left me wanting and here's why.
My first reaction after reading COMPELLED was what happened?! Kept was such a badass sequel and Natalya Stravinsky really did a complete 180 in that book. However I hardly recognized her in this series finale. Granted that she's now the Alpha female of her pack but gone are the little nuances that made Natalya a stand-out heroine. For one, Nat has OCD and she has a thing for hoarding and order among other things and a Nat who can easily forgo basic hygiene just doesn't add up for me. Yes this critic can be viewed as being nitpicky but if you're a follower of this series, Nat's OCD played a huge role in her life and like I said, this and her introverted personality is what made Nat quite the reluctant but endearing heroine. Though I appreciate Nat growing into a butt kicking heroine, Nat from Kept to Nat in COMPELLED are almost two different characters and that question above kept reverberating in my head throughout the novel.
Aside from an unrecognizable Natalya Stravinsky, her consort, Thorn, was pretty much absent in this final novel. Granted that Nat's his savior now, as the Alpha, I was expecting him to play a bigger role than an invalid spouse. Nick, the wizard who played a major role in both Coveted and Kept is MIA as well, the man simply vanished with a too simple explanation that he's out pursuing personal stuff.
Now COMPELLED wasn't all bad, per usual, SMadison delivered in the action/adventure department. The war between warlocks and wizards was intense and it involved a lot of badass magic and more badass characters. Nat's time in Russia was a great change from the usual small-town setting of Coveted, lending it an exotic and more deadly feel. Ultimately Nat's mission to save Thorn from a deathly curse was a success so everything ended happily for the lovers.
Overall COMPELLED felt like a rushed ending. I feel like there should be one more book between Kept and COMPELLED to bridge the gaps I mentioned above. Maybe it's just me but I feel like there could've been more to the story but for some reason, SMadison ended the series. And she did so in haste IMO. SMadison is usually very thorough with her world-building and myth but things aren't as defined in COMPELLED as compared to the previous books. So it is with a heavy heart that I bid this series adieu, thankfully there's Repossessed, a spin-off of this series and hopefully this latest release will fill the void Coveted left.
August 10, 2014
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads
I came into this novel anticipating that it would be a 5-star read; after a rocky start in book 1, this series really hit its stride with KEPT, and I expected more of the same from COMPELLED with the addition of a satisfying conclusion to Natalya Stravinsky’s journey. This finale definitely delivered on the action front with an all-out wizard vs. warlock war, and a race against time to save Thorn’s life. However, as far as trilogy endings go, it fell short of its mark. The secondary characters that I have grown to know and love were all but absent, the romance was minimal, and “alpha” Natalya just wasn’t very believable.
The opening chapters of this book were the most enjoyable in my opinion, because they were on trend with what I’ve come to expect from this series. Aggie and Nat are no longer sharing a house, and yet the heroine’s BFF continues to uphold her ex-roommate’s OCD tendencies by ensuring that the place is spotless. Tyler’s dwarf dinner date was hilarious; I loved how foreign their mate requirements were. “You must have a house underground, you are too tall, etc.” However, I wish there’d been a bit more recap on account of the last installment having been released eighteen months ago. I found myself having to re-read my review of KEPT to help fill-in the blanks.
For some unknown reason, the author decided to cast all of her beloved secondary characters aside in COMPELLED. Thorn, Aggie, and Nick have all played pivotal roles throughout this trilogy only to get the boot at the final hour. Stravinsky’s family and the South Toms River werewolf pack were also barely a blip on the radar, and although I liked the new personalities that Madison introduced in this installment, I wasn’t able to learn enough about them to really care about their fate. The explanation for Nick’s absence was tenuous at best, and Aggie’s disappearing act at the end of the story was obviously a set-up for her upcoming novella, but it kind of felt like the author was putting the cart before the horse in that she’s already planning her next book instead of finishing off this one properly.
The plot itself was a little too epic for my tastes, or maybe it was just the rushed way in which it was delivered. The focus shifts entirely away from the werewolves, and instead we see an influx of other supes like cyclops’, water demons, darklings, warlocks, etc. I found it all rather overwhelming to be honest, and the pathway to the ending was also entirely too convenient. Nat’s first attempt at travelling magically lands her on an island where four werewolf acolytes have been trapped for 400 hundred years, but they just so happen to be the key to winning the war. Then, they help her free some wizards that have been trapped for seven centuries, who in turn… well, you get the idea. It was like shooting fish in a barrel.
Natalya’s come a long way since COVETED, but the leap her character takes from KEPT to this latest installment was a bit of a stretch. I wish the author had further explored her struggles with her new alpha status and her OCD because it felt like she conquered both practically overnight. All this to say that aside from the bucket load of action, COMPELLED was a disappointing conclusion to Shawntelle Madison’s werewolf series.
I came into this novel anticipating that it would be a 5-star read; after a rocky start in book 1, this series really hit its stride with KEPT, and I expected more of the same from COMPELLED with the addition of a satisfying conclusion to Natalya Stravinsky’s journey. This finale definitely delivered on the action front with an all-out wizard vs. warlock war, and a race against time to save Thorn’s life. However, as far as trilogy endings go, it fell short of its mark. The secondary characters that I have grown to know and love were all but absent, the romance was minimal, and “alpha” Natalya just wasn’t very believable.
The opening chapters of this book were the most enjoyable in my opinion, because they were on trend with what I’ve come to expect from this series. Aggie and Nat are no longer sharing a house, and yet the heroine’s BFF continues to uphold her ex-roommate’s OCD tendencies by ensuring that the place is spotless. Tyler’s dwarf dinner date was hilarious; I loved how foreign their mate requirements were. “You must have a house underground, you are too tall, etc.” However, I wish there’d been a bit more recap on account of the last installment having been released eighteen months ago. I found myself having to re-read my review of KEPT to help fill-in the blanks.
For some unknown reason, the author decided to cast all of her beloved secondary characters aside in COMPELLED. Thorn, Aggie, and Nick have all played pivotal roles throughout this trilogy only to get the boot at the final hour. Stravinsky’s family and the South Toms River werewolf pack were also barely a blip on the radar, and although I liked the new personalities that Madison introduced in this installment, I wasn’t able to learn enough about them to really care about their fate. The explanation for Nick’s absence was tenuous at best, and Aggie’s disappearing act at the end of the story was obviously a set-up for her upcoming novella, but it kind of felt like the author was putting the cart before the horse in that she’s already planning her next book instead of finishing off this one properly.
The plot itself was a little too epic for my tastes, or maybe it was just the rushed way in which it was delivered. The focus shifts entirely away from the werewolves, and instead we see an influx of other supes like cyclops’, water demons, darklings, warlocks, etc. I found it all rather overwhelming to be honest, and the pathway to the ending was also entirely too convenient. Nat’s first attempt at travelling magically lands her on an island where four werewolf acolytes have been trapped for 400 hundred years, but they just so happen to be the key to winning the war. Then, they help her free some wizards that have been trapped for seven centuries, who in turn… well, you get the idea. It was like shooting fish in a barrel.
Natalya’s come a long way since COVETED, but the leap her character takes from KEPT to this latest installment was a bit of a stretch. I wish the author had further explored her struggles with her new alpha status and her OCD because it felt like she conquered both practically overnight. All this to say that aside from the bucket load of action, COMPELLED was a disappointing conclusion to Shawntelle Madison’s werewolf series.
May 27, 2014
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I loved the first and second book and it’s true that I expected many things for this novel. I was a little anxious while talking with a friend as she told me that there were some points that disturbed her, and as our reviews are often the same, I wondered what I would think about it. But I’ll tell you more about that later.
We thus find our dear Nat, now married to Thorn. However, something still hangs over their heads, including the curse on her husband that could kill him at one time or another. So when a character in her past comes back on stage and she learns that she might have a solution to save Thorn, Nat does not hesitate a second and leaves for Russia. But while a war rages, it seems that our heroine is in the middle of this whole story, and she will have to be very careful with people she trusts. However, she will be involved in something that is completely beyond her, and Nat will be forced to face her greatest fears to successfully save the man she loves and maybe even more than that.
I always take great pleasure in following Nat to discover how she will act. But unlike in the other volumes, I found she had acted here fairly mindless, like a total different person and it is true that I found it a shame as it was not something I particularly understand… Well, I understand her desire to save her soul mate by all means but I think that she could have achieved this in an entirely different way. Yet I enjoyed the track in this new quest and Shawntelle Madison has this time very many original ideas for her heroine I must say. Great things are happening here and the reader is quickly dragged into a wild ride! Nat is also changing dramatically here, and it was nice to see the person she was becoming after all these events. Yet it is true that I might have liked that everything does not happen as quickly so we could have the time to understand everything. But you must know that it does not change the fact that I had a great time with the novel and I’m really curious to read more writings by Shawntelle Madison.
You have to understand, despite the pace, it was a good new third volume and I always look forward to read more. But I hope we’ll see very quickly the secondary characters we love as they were not present here which was quite sad.
My English review
I loved the first and second book and it’s true that I expected many things for this novel. I was a little anxious while talking with a friend as she told me that there were some points that disturbed her, and as our reviews are often the same, I wondered what I would think about it. But I’ll tell you more about that later.
We thus find our dear Nat, now married to Thorn. However, something still hangs over their heads, including the curse on her husband that could kill him at one time or another. So when a character in her past comes back on stage and she learns that she might have a solution to save Thorn, Nat does not hesitate a second and leaves for Russia. But while a war rages, it seems that our heroine is in the middle of this whole story, and she will have to be very careful with people she trusts. However, she will be involved in something that is completely beyond her, and Nat will be forced to face her greatest fears to successfully save the man she loves and maybe even more than that.
I always take great pleasure in following Nat to discover how she will act. But unlike in the other volumes, I found she had acted here fairly mindless, like a total different person and it is true that I found it a shame as it was not something I particularly understand… Well, I understand her desire to save her soul mate by all means but I think that she could have achieved this in an entirely different way. Yet I enjoyed the track in this new quest and Shawntelle Madison has this time very many original ideas for her heroine I must say. Great things are happening here and the reader is quickly dragged into a wild ride! Nat is also changing dramatically here, and it was nice to see the person she was becoming after all these events. Yet it is true that I might have liked that everything does not happen as quickly so we could have the time to understand everything. But you must know that it does not change the fact that I had a great time with the novel and I’m really curious to read more writings by Shawntelle Madison.
You have to understand, despite the pace, it was a good new third volume and I always look forward to read more. But I hope we’ll see very quickly the secondary characters we love as they were not present here which was quite sad.
September 26, 2014
Compelled is the third installment in the Coveted series that tells the story of Natalya an alpha werewolf who has some issues. She’s spent the last five years wishing that she could be with Thorn but now that she’s earned the right it seems his curse is going to cut that time short. Determined to figure out how to save the man she loves Natalya sets off to Russian with her friend Tyler a dwarf intent on finding out how to break the curse before it’s too late. Around the world a war is brewing between the wizards and the warlock that threatens to spill out in the human world.
Natalya and Tyler arrive at the home of Tamara who is a magic using werewolf who may just hold the key to saving Thorn. Thorn being the excellent tracker that he is finds Natalya at Tamara’s house and time is running out. Tamara agrees to train Natalya to see if she would be able to help her break the curse spell but they are attacked before forcing them all to flee in different directions. Natalya leaves Thorn in attempt to bring more people to fight against the warlocks what she finds is not what she expected but it may just be what she needs. Will they be able to stop the warlocks and save Thorn or will she be too late.
I love Natalya she’s one of my favorite werewolf characters in fiction and I just can’t seem to get enough of her. I love that she’s grown from the first book in the series, she’s turning into a bad-ass werewolf and I see lots of potential. I like that she reaches out to her therapy group when she needs help, and we get to see a little more of them like this book we met Tyler. He may be a dwarf but he’s also a model who just wants to find a wife. He was a great character to accompany Natalya though Russia. I also love Thorn he’s a perfect match or Natalya he supports her and sees her for who she is.
I had high expectations for Compelled after reading the prior books and the author delivered. Compelled is a fast paced action packed novel that takes a werewolf struggling with OCD and tosses her to the wolves you could say. She needs to learn to be tough and overcome her OCD or it may just cost her the one she loves. I was able to connect with Natalya right from the start and love that she just got better as the story progressed. I’m a huge fan of characters growing throughout the books and she has come a long way. I read Compelled from start to finish in one sitting it was impossible to put down because I had to know if she was going to save Thorn. If you’re a fan of Urban Fantasy and love werewolves this is a must read the characters are great and the story is beautifully done.
Natalya and Tyler arrive at the home of Tamara who is a magic using werewolf who may just hold the key to saving Thorn. Thorn being the excellent tracker that he is finds Natalya at Tamara’s house and time is running out. Tamara agrees to train Natalya to see if she would be able to help her break the curse spell but they are attacked before forcing them all to flee in different directions. Natalya leaves Thorn in attempt to bring more people to fight against the warlocks what she finds is not what she expected but it may just be what she needs. Will they be able to stop the warlocks and save Thorn or will she be too late.
I love Natalya she’s one of my favorite werewolf characters in fiction and I just can’t seem to get enough of her. I love that she’s grown from the first book in the series, she’s turning into a bad-ass werewolf and I see lots of potential. I like that she reaches out to her therapy group when she needs help, and we get to see a little more of them like this book we met Tyler. He may be a dwarf but he’s also a model who just wants to find a wife. He was a great character to accompany Natalya though Russia. I also love Thorn he’s a perfect match or Natalya he supports her and sees her for who she is.
I had high expectations for Compelled after reading the prior books and the author delivered. Compelled is a fast paced action packed novel that takes a werewolf struggling with OCD and tosses her to the wolves you could say. She needs to learn to be tough and overcome her OCD or it may just cost her the one she loves. I was able to connect with Natalya right from the start and love that she just got better as the story progressed. I’m a huge fan of characters growing throughout the books and she has come a long way. I read Compelled from start to finish in one sitting it was impossible to put down because I had to know if she was going to save Thorn. If you’re a fan of Urban Fantasy and love werewolves this is a must read the characters are great and the story is beautifully done.
May 23, 2014
Originally reviewed for Tea and Book.
Ready to go for a wild ride? Compelled is book Three in Shawntelle Madison's Coveted Series and in it she wraps up the Natalya Stravinsky, Werewolf.
Natalya has come a long way from the panic stricken little border with OCD. She has won the love of her life and earned her spit as Alpha female of her pack. Life should be good. Except Thorn, her mate, the pack Alpha is dying. Having been cursed by a werewolf that wanted him kept in captivity.
When Natalya hears from her grandmother that the family's archnemis is looking for ways to remove a warlock's curse, she decides it's time to fight for Thorne and it's off to Russia. Leaving Thorne behind us the hardest thing she has ever done but she knows in her heart that it's his only chance.
While in Russia she has just enough time with Tamara to learn that she does have power and has a general concept in how to use it. Before evil tracks her down. From Russia she is off to Finland, a mysterious hidden beach, Ukraine and back to Finland. Along the way she finds some very interesting allies and some old friends.
Once again relying on her friends from group therapy, Natalya discovers that there is so much more out there than she ever knew. And this from a werewolf who is friends with a mermaid, a muse, a minor deity, a wizard and a dwarf that's a covermodel. Honestly, Ms. Madison cracks me up. Even if Compelled is much less hysterical than Kept. She still manages to tell a wonderfully unique story, filled with Dark magic, hidden spellbinders, mysterious wards and true love.
A great book. I seriously suggest you check it out.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Compelled, provided by netgalley.
Ready to go for a wild ride? Compelled is book Three in Shawntelle Madison's Coveted Series and in it she wraps up the Natalya Stravinsky, Werewolf.
Natalya has come a long way from the panic stricken little border with OCD. She has won the love of her life and earned her spit as Alpha female of her pack. Life should be good. Except Thorn, her mate, the pack Alpha is dying. Having been cursed by a werewolf that wanted him kept in captivity.
When Natalya hears from her grandmother that the family's archnemis is looking for ways to remove a warlock's curse, she decides it's time to fight for Thorne and it's off to Russia. Leaving Thorne behind us the hardest thing she has ever done but she knows in her heart that it's his only chance.
While in Russia she has just enough time with Tamara to learn that she does have power and has a general concept in how to use it. Before evil tracks her down. From Russia she is off to Finland, a mysterious hidden beach, Ukraine and back to Finland. Along the way she finds some very interesting allies and some old friends.
Once again relying on her friends from group therapy, Natalya discovers that there is so much more out there than she ever knew. And this from a werewolf who is friends with a mermaid, a muse, a minor deity, a wizard and a dwarf that's a covermodel. Honestly, Ms. Madison cracks me up. Even if Compelled is much less hysterical than Kept. She still manages to tell a wonderfully unique story, filled with Dark magic, hidden spellbinders, mysterious wards and true love.
A great book. I seriously suggest you check it out.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Compelled, provided by netgalley.
May 30, 2014
Didn't know it was a trilogy
Didn't know it was a trilogy
Technically it is a series. Except Natalya is only in 3 books. The author plans on continuing with other characters but you may not be interested in those characters. She leaves a couple questions unanswered to spin off with other books. I've enjoyed Natalya's journey but she gets to the point where I really want to read more of her and it's over. If I had known it was a 3 book arc for Natalya I never would have read this series. Overall the book was a good read. Except it disappoints in that some interesting future possibilities that come to mind are meaningless. Hello at one point the author hints that Natalya found her grandfather. Which never gets addressed.
Didn't know it was a trilogy
Technically it is a series. Except Natalya is only in 3 books. The author plans on continuing with other characters but you may not be interested in those characters. She leaves a couple questions unanswered to spin off with other books. I've enjoyed Natalya's journey but she gets to the point where I really want to read more of her and it's over. If I had known it was a 3 book arc for Natalya I never would have read this series. Overall the book was a good read. Except it disappoints in that some interesting future possibilities that come to mind are meaningless. Hello at one point the author hints that Natalya found her grandfather. Which never gets addressed.
May 28, 2016
I liked the first one better.... The second was okay too....this one, not so much. It felt kinda cold and off.
October 18, 2024
If I had one complaint (I had two), it would be more Thorn!
He is the best.
Also, some spots dragged. I didn't need the details of the train journey. I had no idea where in Russia we were. Also, learned that Finland is next to Russia. Love books that help me learn geography.
Still, it was a good book and I loved the last half of the book. Wizards and warlocks fighting! Dark magic! A werewolf with OCD! So good.
I, luckily, found the next book in the series for free. Very excited.
He is the best.
Also, some spots dragged. I didn't need the details of the train journey. I had no idea where in Russia we were. Also, learned that Finland is next to Russia. Love books that help me learn geography.
Still, it was a good book and I loved the last half of the book. Wizards and warlocks fighting! Dark magic! A werewolf with OCD! So good.
I, luckily, found the next book in the series for free. Very excited.
July 8, 2014
I love the Coveted series about Natalya, a OCD werewolf 'ultimate underdog' heroine, who fights through panic attacks, lack of confidence, universal disapproval and truly scare-worthy enemies to get the job done. This is the final story in the Coveted trilogy and I was sad to see it come yet I was eager to see what Nat's last paranormal adventure would be.
This is very much a series that needs to be read in order as it is mostly a continuation of one story broken into three parts. In fact, be warned that there will be a bit of series spoilerage to books one and two if you continue reading my story summary.
The last book left off on a high note for Nat. She has achieved more than she could possibly imagine by competing in the pack trials to be restored to the pack and prove she is worthy of being Thorn's mate. Her win removed the shame she brought on her family and gave her a huge boost in confidence in regard to her mental health issues. Having Thorn is a huge balm too. But all is not quite smelling of roses. Her position of pack female alpha is precarious and some of her old enemies are aware that she's faking it until she makes it. And Thorn is still dying from the warlock's curse. Thorn is her everything and Nat will do anything to get rid of the curse even going on a dangerous journey right into the middle of a wizard and warlock war zone to hunt down a spell that will reverse the curse even if it means going to a werewolf spell caster who has reason to wish Nat a whole lot of ill will. But with the help of a couple of her trusty therapy group friends, she gets where she needs to be and survives by the seat of her pants as she goes about her quest. If only she can find what she needs on time to beat the progression of Thorn's curse.
I wasn't aware this was the finale story until after I started reading it so this didn't play into my expectations not quite being met when I got into the book, but it did as things progressed. The second book was a strong story and I guess I was looking for more of the same. While there were many things I really enjoyed in this one, there were just as many things to disappoint.
First off, I felt a bit lost when this book opened and I wondered if I missed something the way Nat and Thorn's relationship was described. It was like they were this old married couple that had been together for years and everything had mellowed. I know the poor guy is sickening from the curse eating him alive, but snikeys! There was no real feeling of romance or spark between the two even if the point of Nat's journey is to save him.
And that was another thing, I felt like Thorn should have had a bigger presence in the book. He was there a in a minor way, but he played no significant role other than figurehead. Nat has come into her own and it was all about her personal journey to learn magic, save a group of magic using werewolves and then help rescue some wizards. I liked this Nat, but I was struck by the feeling that this personal journey suited an earlier segment and not a grand finale adventure.
And if Thorn was absent, Nick and several other loveable characters were truly AWOL. All those wonderful characters that really made the previous stories sparkle weren't present at all or were barely there. To be fair, Tyler the dwarf had a big role as did Dr. Frank. Her few scenes with the pack wolves, at the store and with her family were rushed and crammed in here and there. The story took place far from Nat's home and the setting of her work, her family and her therapy group. Not that the new setting in Russia was bad, it was fab even just as the big wizards and warlocks battle she was in was fab, but I guess for the finale I wanted her last big adventure to be amongst those I had come to love.
As to what I loved, I loved seeing Nat finally arrive. She is bold. She is prepared to get dirty if that's what it takes. Her vulnerabilities were still there though not as crippling. She doesn't give up when most would. I loved the scenes she shared with her friends, Tyler and Raj. I loved the close up with the wizards and warlocks battle which was some exciting stuff. And while some things wrapped up in this one, I liked that its not truly good-bye to the wonderful paranormal world the author created letting other characters get their stories told now. I know there are other stories in the Coveted universe including a spin-off with Nick's story and some more with Aggie to which I really look forward.
So I guess what I'm trying to say is that if this hadn't been the finale, I would have been pleased and probably more, but because it was, I felt disappointed to have it end with this storyline. I didn't hate this story, far from it. I just had a stronger opinion about what elements were lacking. Others might not feel this strongly about some of this stuff and I suppose in a way what I felt is a compliment to the writing because I was so vested in Nat's story. Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance fans should definitely include these books in their reading list.
My thanks to Net Galley for the opportunity to read this story in exchange for my honest review.
This is very much a series that needs to be read in order as it is mostly a continuation of one story broken into three parts. In fact, be warned that there will be a bit of series spoilerage to books one and two if you continue reading my story summary.
The last book left off on a high note for Nat. She has achieved more than she could possibly imagine by competing in the pack trials to be restored to the pack and prove she is worthy of being Thorn's mate. Her win removed the shame she brought on her family and gave her a huge boost in confidence in regard to her mental health issues. Having Thorn is a huge balm too. But all is not quite smelling of roses. Her position of pack female alpha is precarious and some of her old enemies are aware that she's faking it until she makes it. And Thorn is still dying from the warlock's curse. Thorn is her everything and Nat will do anything to get rid of the curse even going on a dangerous journey right into the middle of a wizard and warlock war zone to hunt down a spell that will reverse the curse even if it means going to a werewolf spell caster who has reason to wish Nat a whole lot of ill will. But with the help of a couple of her trusty therapy group friends, she gets where she needs to be and survives by the seat of her pants as she goes about her quest. If only she can find what she needs on time to beat the progression of Thorn's curse.
I wasn't aware this was the finale story until after I started reading it so this didn't play into my expectations not quite being met when I got into the book, but it did as things progressed. The second book was a strong story and I guess I was looking for more of the same. While there were many things I really enjoyed in this one, there were just as many things to disappoint.
First off, I felt a bit lost when this book opened and I wondered if I missed something the way Nat and Thorn's relationship was described. It was like they were this old married couple that had been together for years and everything had mellowed. I know the poor guy is sickening from the curse eating him alive, but snikeys! There was no real feeling of romance or spark between the two even if the point of Nat's journey is to save him.
And that was another thing, I felt like Thorn should have had a bigger presence in the book. He was there a in a minor way, but he played no significant role other than figurehead. Nat has come into her own and it was all about her personal journey to learn magic, save a group of magic using werewolves and then help rescue some wizards. I liked this Nat, but I was struck by the feeling that this personal journey suited an earlier segment and not a grand finale adventure.
And if Thorn was absent, Nick and several other loveable characters were truly AWOL. All those wonderful characters that really made the previous stories sparkle weren't present at all or were barely there. To be fair, Tyler the dwarf had a big role as did Dr. Frank. Her few scenes with the pack wolves, at the store and with her family were rushed and crammed in here and there. The story took place far from Nat's home and the setting of her work, her family and her therapy group. Not that the new setting in Russia was bad, it was fab even just as the big wizards and warlocks battle she was in was fab, but I guess for the finale I wanted her last big adventure to be amongst those I had come to love.
As to what I loved, I loved seeing Nat finally arrive. She is bold. She is prepared to get dirty if that's what it takes. Her vulnerabilities were still there though not as crippling. She doesn't give up when most would. I loved the scenes she shared with her friends, Tyler and Raj. I loved the close up with the wizards and warlocks battle which was some exciting stuff. And while some things wrapped up in this one, I liked that its not truly good-bye to the wonderful paranormal world the author created letting other characters get their stories told now. I know there are other stories in the Coveted universe including a spin-off with Nick's story and some more with Aggie to which I really look forward.
So I guess what I'm trying to say is that if this hadn't been the finale, I would have been pleased and probably more, but because it was, I felt disappointed to have it end with this storyline. I didn't hate this story, far from it. I just had a stronger opinion about what elements were lacking. Others might not feel this strongly about some of this stuff and I suppose in a way what I felt is a compliment to the writing because I was so vested in Nat's story. Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance fans should definitely include these books in their reading list.
My thanks to Net Galley for the opportunity to read this story in exchange for my honest review.
December 1, 2019
I always enjoy a good shifter book from Shawntelle, she did not disappoint.
May 15, 2014
My Rating: B- Liked It, but I had a few small issues
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by NetGalley
Compelled, the third story of the Coveted series by Shawntelle Madison, chronicles the final leg in the journey of werewolf Natalya Stravinsky, from life as an OCD-driven pack outcast to that of the alpha female. I strongly suggest that you do not read Compelled without having first read the preceding two stories, as Nat’s story does not start, but rather culminates in Compelled. Without knowing Nat’s struggles first hand, I don’t feel a new reader would enjoy this story nearly as much. With that, this review will contain spoilers from the first two books.
Compelled opens shortly after the conclusion of Kept, when Nat finally earns her way back into the South Toms River pack, and along with it, the acceptance of her family and the love of her mate, Thorn. Unfortunately, as we learned in Kept, Thorn has been cursed to death, with his health rapidly deteriorating. When Nat learns that Tamara, a distant relative, is working on a spell to remove curses, Nat rushes off to Russia without telling anyone. Once there, she finds herself in the middle of a war between Warlocks and Wizards, while fighting for the life of her one true love.
Overall I enjoyed Compelled for what it is: the culmination of Nat’s long journey and years of struggling to have the life of which she’s always dreamed. After seeing Nat overcome so much during the course of the first two books, it was wonderful to witness her final growth and see her blossom into the true alpha female of the South Toms River pack. Not only has Nat learned to stand up for herself, but she’s found ways to deal rationally with her OCD and other quirks. During Compelled, we witness Nat put it all together to save Thorn. I genuinely like the woman Nat becomes.
While the beginning of the book was a bit slow, and Nat made some bad choices, once she and friends Tyler and Raj make it to Russia, the story picks up a lot. The journey through the Nat’s ancestral homeland was both entertaining and exciting. Nat meets several new and interesting characters along the way, creating a rag-tag family in spirit.
However... Nat already has family and a group of close-knit companions, who were regrettably absent from the story. Nick, Aggie, and Heidi, Nat’s closest friends, had no direct part in the book. This made me a bit sad by the time the story was over. How could Nat’s final tale and last big hoorah go on without the characters that got her to this point?! While there was some hints about what’s going on with the other characters, I was disappointed that they did not have more direct involvement in this journey.
In addition, because of his illnesses, Thorn was sidelined for most of the story. This also was bothersome. The couple fought so hard to be together that I wanted to see them in action together. The pair did have some touching moments, and we did get to witness each learn to adjust to being part of a pair - respecting the other and learning to trust. But I wanted more.
While I was not happy with the lack of time spent with Nat’s previous friends and family, I did like many of the new characters. I especially liked Tamara. She is clever and sharp, mostly cruel, yet with hints of a nurturing grandmother. She is selfish and does not apologize for her actions. The more time Nat spent with Tamara, the more I wanted to get to know the character. She has secrets, and discovering what they are is an engrossing ride.
At the very end of the story, we learn a secret that made me smile. It’s a sweet and sentimental twist of sorts that took me by surprise. I then nodded my head and said “ah ha.” I hope it puts a smile on your face and warm your heart like it did mine.
Compelled is the concluding story in Nat's journey, which spans three books. Although I wanted more Nat and Thorn time and was disappointed at the lack of time spent with the characters I’ve come to care about, the underlying story and adventure was exciting. It is a sweet story of coming full circle and personal growth. There is not as much emotional depth as I would have hoped for, but the high stakes, and Thorn’s life on the line, created an urgency that kept me engrossed. I also enjoyed the new characters who help Nat this time around. Finally, I am excited that there will be another book in the Coveted world, this one featuring Aggie. If it’s anything like her novella, Bitter Disenchantment, it’s going to be a wonderful story. Bottom line: Compelled is a must read for fans of the Coveted series.
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by NetGalley
Compelled, the third story of the Coveted series by Shawntelle Madison, chronicles the final leg in the journey of werewolf Natalya Stravinsky, from life as an OCD-driven pack outcast to that of the alpha female. I strongly suggest that you do not read Compelled without having first read the preceding two stories, as Nat’s story does not start, but rather culminates in Compelled. Without knowing Nat’s struggles first hand, I don’t feel a new reader would enjoy this story nearly as much. With that, this review will contain spoilers from the first two books.
Compelled opens shortly after the conclusion of Kept, when Nat finally earns her way back into the South Toms River pack, and along with it, the acceptance of her family and the love of her mate, Thorn. Unfortunately, as we learned in Kept, Thorn has been cursed to death, with his health rapidly deteriorating. When Nat learns that Tamara, a distant relative, is working on a spell to remove curses, Nat rushes off to Russia without telling anyone. Once there, she finds herself in the middle of a war between Warlocks and Wizards, while fighting for the life of her one true love.
Overall I enjoyed Compelled for what it is: the culmination of Nat’s long journey and years of struggling to have the life of which she’s always dreamed. After seeing Nat overcome so much during the course of the first two books, it was wonderful to witness her final growth and see her blossom into the true alpha female of the South Toms River pack. Not only has Nat learned to stand up for herself, but she’s found ways to deal rationally with her OCD and other quirks. During Compelled, we witness Nat put it all together to save Thorn. I genuinely like the woman Nat becomes.
While the beginning of the book was a bit slow, and Nat made some bad choices, once she and friends Tyler and Raj make it to Russia, the story picks up a lot. The journey through the Nat’s ancestral homeland was both entertaining and exciting. Nat meets several new and interesting characters along the way, creating a rag-tag family in spirit.
However... Nat already has family and a group of close-knit companions, who were regrettably absent from the story. Nick, Aggie, and Heidi, Nat’s closest friends, had no direct part in the book. This made me a bit sad by the time the story was over. How could Nat’s final tale and last big hoorah go on without the characters that got her to this point?! While there was some hints about what’s going on with the other characters, I was disappointed that they did not have more direct involvement in this journey.
In addition, because of his illnesses, Thorn was sidelined for most of the story. This also was bothersome. The couple fought so hard to be together that I wanted to see them in action together. The pair did have some touching moments, and we did get to witness each learn to adjust to being part of a pair - respecting the other and learning to trust. But I wanted more.
While I was not happy with the lack of time spent with Nat’s previous friends and family, I did like many of the new characters. I especially liked Tamara. She is clever and sharp, mostly cruel, yet with hints of a nurturing grandmother. She is selfish and does not apologize for her actions. The more time Nat spent with Tamara, the more I wanted to get to know the character. She has secrets, and discovering what they are is an engrossing ride.
At the very end of the story, we learn a secret that made me smile. It’s a sweet and sentimental twist of sorts that took me by surprise. I then nodded my head and said “ah ha.” I hope it puts a smile on your face and warm your heart like it did mine.
Compelled is the concluding story in Nat's journey, which spans three books. Although I wanted more Nat and Thorn time and was disappointed at the lack of time spent with the characters I’ve come to care about, the underlying story and adventure was exciting. It is a sweet story of coming full circle and personal growth. There is not as much emotional depth as I would have hoped for, but the high stakes, and Thorn’s life on the line, created an urgency that kept me engrossed. I also enjoyed the new characters who help Nat this time around. Finally, I am excited that there will be another book in the Coveted world, this one featuring Aggie. If it’s anything like her novella, Bitter Disenchantment, it’s going to be a wonderful story. Bottom line: Compelled is a must read for fans of the Coveted series.
August 13, 2014
With the war between the wizards and warlocks heating up, the race is on for Natalya to lift the curse from Thorn. In the battle from book 2, Old Magic was used and as a result, Thorn was affected with a curse. A very bad, dark curse that's slowly taking his life away and making him age before everyone's eyes. Natalya's love and devotion for her new mate runs deep and she will move heaven and earth to lift the curse. With zero help from her family, even the ones familiar with Old Magic, Nat is compelled to travel to Russia to meet with Tamara, one of her extended family members who has knowledge of curses and possibly how to remove them, at least from objects. Not only is Natalya still reeling from Thorn's curse and lack of a cure, she is now dealing with being the new alpha female. Readers of this series know that because of Nat's quirks, hang-ups and compulsions, most members of the South Toms River Pack don't see her as a suitable alpha, let alone a suitable pack member. She is dealing with adversity from most of the pack as a whole, which isn't adding anything to her already heavy burden.
In the first two books, the Natalya I have grown to love was both unique and flawed. A werewolf with OCD, hoarding issues, anxiety and panic attacks was quite a breath of fresh air in an otherwise same old genre. That is one of the reasons I grew to love her so, who doesn't like someone with flaws? In this installment, most (if not all) of her tendencies have all but disappeared, leaving the reader with a decidedly different Natalya. Some of that could be chalked up to personal growth and therapy, but it seems as if this particular Natalya wasn't the same one we were given in the previous books. Even her manner of speech was a bit different, she repeated many of the same things (kinda, gotta, gonna, dunno), which I don't recall from previous installments. I dislike those phrases anyway, I understand it's slangy and makes the book feel more current, but I can't believe stickler Natalya would suddenly adopt new "fancy" phrases.
While some of Natalya's old pals and fellow therapy members were present, I found myself missing those which have played such pivotal roles in previous books, mainly Nick. But, we did get to see more of the creepy necromancer who once tried to woo Nat with zombies and I can happily say he's still as creepy as ever :) More favorites made appearances, some larger than others. Tyler, the oddly tall dwarf, Raj, the deity, and Lilith, the oh-so-UN-sexy succubus were present, which made me quite happy since they are characters I've grown to love.
While this proved to be a (mostly) satisfactory conclusion to Natalya's journey and I really liked seeing her take some more sure-footed actions, I was left with wanting the Natalya from old. I appreciate character growth, but only when some of which made them uniquely them is still present and in this case, that didn't really seem to be. I still recommend both this book and this series, especially the first two books, Coveted and Kept. This is also a series I recommend starting at the beginning because there are quite a few overlapping storylines that are quite important to the plot of the later books.
**eARC received on behalf of the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
In the first two books, the Natalya I have grown to love was both unique and flawed. A werewolf with OCD, hoarding issues, anxiety and panic attacks was quite a breath of fresh air in an otherwise same old genre. That is one of the reasons I grew to love her so, who doesn't like someone with flaws? In this installment, most (if not all) of her tendencies have all but disappeared, leaving the reader with a decidedly different Natalya. Some of that could be chalked up to personal growth and therapy, but it seems as if this particular Natalya wasn't the same one we were given in the previous books. Even her manner of speech was a bit different, she repeated many of the same things (kinda, gotta, gonna, dunno), which I don't recall from previous installments. I dislike those phrases anyway, I understand it's slangy and makes the book feel more current, but I can't believe stickler Natalya would suddenly adopt new "fancy" phrases.
While some of Natalya's old pals and fellow therapy members were present, I found myself missing those which have played such pivotal roles in previous books, mainly Nick. But, we did get to see more of the creepy necromancer who once tried to woo Nat with zombies and I can happily say he's still as creepy as ever :) More favorites made appearances, some larger than others. Tyler, the oddly tall dwarf, Raj, the deity, and Lilith, the oh-so-UN-sexy succubus were present, which made me quite happy since they are characters I've grown to love.
While this proved to be a (mostly) satisfactory conclusion to Natalya's journey and I really liked seeing her take some more sure-footed actions, I was left with wanting the Natalya from old. I appreciate character growth, but only when some of which made them uniquely them is still present and in this case, that didn't really seem to be. I still recommend both this book and this series, especially the first two books, Coveted and Kept. This is also a series I recommend starting at the beginning because there are quite a few overlapping storylines that are quite important to the plot of the later books.
**eARC received on behalf of the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 23, 2014
Nat is back in the third and last book in the series. She and Thorn got married (I am assuming sometime between the last book and this one) and she is the Alpha female of the pack. She seems to be doing really well with her OCD tendencies and her hoarding. Everything is roses, except for the fact Thorn is slowly dying of a magical curse and the magical supernatural community is at war. Nat takes it upon herself to head to her family’s motherland Russia to hunt down a werewolf who uses magic to help her fix Thorn, and ends up in the middle of the war.
I love Nat and the complete world that the author has created. I love that these strong supernatural characters have so many psychological issues and needed a support group and a therapist to overcome their troubles. But this book was less about what I have come to know and expect. At the end of the second book, Nat turns into a complete badass and shows the pack what she was made of. So maybe that is why she can better handle her OCD/hoarding ways? She was almost normal in this story, maybe a bit of a clean freak, but her crutches to help survive the real world were completely gone. It makes me wonder if it is her becoming Alpha or becoming the mate to Thorn that helped her cope. One thing I was kind of lost on was the scent Nat carried. Everyone pointed out that she smelled weird (and no I am not talking about her internal traveling companions) but then the smell was just gone. I wanted to know why she smelled and how it resolved, but it was not really discussed. I had a few hang ups with the ending of her story, mainly because I like things spelled out for me, nothing left to my imagination, because I have a bad habit of creating terrible scenarios for my characters after the book has ended and I don't have answers. I want just a few more answers...
I was kind of disappointed about not seeing some of the dysfunctional characters that make up Nat’s therapy group in this story. They played such a big role in her adventures in the last books, I wanted then back again. Yes I know she had Tyler the model/dwarf, but I miss Nick, and the muse, and all the others. This story was pretty much about her journey to and through Russia, and how she learned magic. I was also let down that there was almost no interaction between Nat and Thorn. Yes I understand her crazy journey due to her love for him, but I wanted to see the mate bond in action at some point.
Don’t get me wrong, this was not a bad book in any way. I liked it; it just was not as good as the last two for me personally. It was a non-stop action adventure, where the world was thrown on it's head and I was at times overwhelmed with the enormity of what the author created. I love the world and I will read more books set in it. I hope to maybe have a spin off for Nick, because to be honest I was rooting for him and Nat to hook up because I liked him so much better than Thorn (let's just hope he is ok...)
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
I love Nat and the complete world that the author has created. I love that these strong supernatural characters have so many psychological issues and needed a support group and a therapist to overcome their troubles. But this book was less about what I have come to know and expect. At the end of the second book, Nat turns into a complete badass and shows the pack what she was made of. So maybe that is why she can better handle her OCD/hoarding ways? She was almost normal in this story, maybe a bit of a clean freak, but her crutches to help survive the real world were completely gone. It makes me wonder if it is her becoming Alpha or becoming the mate to Thorn that helped her cope. One thing I was kind of lost on was the scent Nat carried. Everyone pointed out that she smelled weird (and no I am not talking about her internal traveling companions) but then the smell was just gone. I wanted to know why she smelled and how it resolved, but it was not really discussed. I had a few hang ups with the ending of her story, mainly because I like things spelled out for me, nothing left to my imagination, because I have a bad habit of creating terrible scenarios for my characters after the book has ended and I don't have answers. I want just a few more answers...
I was kind of disappointed about not seeing some of the dysfunctional characters that make up Nat’s therapy group in this story. They played such a big role in her adventures in the last books, I wanted then back again. Yes I know she had Tyler the model/dwarf, but I miss Nick, and the muse, and all the others. This story was pretty much about her journey to and through Russia, and how she learned magic. I was also let down that there was almost no interaction between Nat and Thorn. Yes I understand her crazy journey due to her love for him, but I wanted to see the mate bond in action at some point.
Don’t get me wrong, this was not a bad book in any way. I liked it; it just was not as good as the last two for me personally. It was a non-stop action adventure, where the world was thrown on it's head and I was at times overwhelmed with the enormity of what the author created. I love the world and I will read more books set in it. I hope to maybe have a spin off for Nick, because to be honest I was rooting for him and Nat to hook up because I liked him so much better than Thorn (let's just hope he is ok...)
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
May 24, 2014
3.75 stars
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 5, 2014
For the past five years, Natalya Stravinsky has dreamed of two things: to rejoin the South Toms River werewolf pack and to be reunited with Thorn Grantham. Fate may have brought the pack back into her life, but unless she journeys to Russia to save Thorn, the love she’s found may be lost again. For a stubborn werewolf like Natalya, no distance is too far, no magic spell too complex to master, because one way or another she will find a way to have everything she has ever wanted.
~~~~~~
REVIEW: COMPELLED is the third instalment in Shawntelle Madison’s adult, contemporary Coveted paranormal series focusing on alpha female werewolf Natalya Stravinsky. Natalya is a wolf who suffers with a plethora of emotional disorders and OCDs that threaten her ability to work and move forward at every opportunity.
With her mate, werewolf alpha Thorn Grantham, slowly dying from a curse, Natalya goes in search of a counter spell to stop her lover’s untimely demise. Natalya’s search will take the reluctant alpha from America to Russia and Finland where she will discover that the truth behind the Old Magic myth that some werewolves have powers that have yet to be untapped. Meeting her extended Russian family, Natalya will be pulled into a war between the warlocks and wizards, and any chance of discovering a reversal spell may be too late as the curse is beginning to take its’ toll on the South Thoms River alpha male.
Told from first person POV (Natalya) COMPELLED is a storyline that focuses on Natalya’s attempts to prove she is a female werewolf worthy of the alpha designation. Having fought to win her position within the pack, Natalya sets out to seek a counter spell that will cure her dying mate, but along the way, she will also learn to deal with the numerous emotional disorders that control her daily life. As she slowly learns to deal with the powers within, she will be the vessel of an ancient power that has long been forgotten and presumed dead.
The majority of the secondary characters are new introductions and there is only a brief mention of Natalya’s supernatural therapy friends who were her sole source of support in the first two storylines. The interaction between Thorn and Natalya is limited as much of their time is spent apart while Natalya searches for a counter spell to the curse that is destroying her mate. The world building focuses on a war between the supernaturals of the world and there is very little reference to the original wolf pack from the first two storylines although they do come into play at various times throughout the story including a brief visit in Russia.
Shawntelle Madison gives Natalya Stravinsky her happily ever after in COMPLELLED. Although our heroine will never completely recover from the emotional disorders that at one time had a strangle hold on her life, Natalya is a werewolf who is worthy of the title Alpha Female and all of the perks that are associated with the position.
Copy supplied by Netgalley.
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 5, 2014
For the past five years, Natalya Stravinsky has dreamed of two things: to rejoin the South Toms River werewolf pack and to be reunited with Thorn Grantham. Fate may have brought the pack back into her life, but unless she journeys to Russia to save Thorn, the love she’s found may be lost again. For a stubborn werewolf like Natalya, no distance is too far, no magic spell too complex to master, because one way or another she will find a way to have everything she has ever wanted.
~~~~~~
REVIEW: COMPELLED is the third instalment in Shawntelle Madison’s adult, contemporary Coveted paranormal series focusing on alpha female werewolf Natalya Stravinsky. Natalya is a wolf who suffers with a plethora of emotional disorders and OCDs that threaten her ability to work and move forward at every opportunity.
With her mate, werewolf alpha Thorn Grantham, slowly dying from a curse, Natalya goes in search of a counter spell to stop her lover’s untimely demise. Natalya’s search will take the reluctant alpha from America to Russia and Finland where she will discover that the truth behind the Old Magic myth that some werewolves have powers that have yet to be untapped. Meeting her extended Russian family, Natalya will be pulled into a war between the warlocks and wizards, and any chance of discovering a reversal spell may be too late as the curse is beginning to take its’ toll on the South Thoms River alpha male.
Told from first person POV (Natalya) COMPELLED is a storyline that focuses on Natalya’s attempts to prove she is a female werewolf worthy of the alpha designation. Having fought to win her position within the pack, Natalya sets out to seek a counter spell that will cure her dying mate, but along the way, she will also learn to deal with the numerous emotional disorders that control her daily life. As she slowly learns to deal with the powers within, she will be the vessel of an ancient power that has long been forgotten and presumed dead.
The majority of the secondary characters are new introductions and there is only a brief mention of Natalya’s supernatural therapy friends who were her sole source of support in the first two storylines. The interaction between Thorn and Natalya is limited as much of their time is spent apart while Natalya searches for a counter spell to the curse that is destroying her mate. The world building focuses on a war between the supernaturals of the world and there is very little reference to the original wolf pack from the first two storylines although they do come into play at various times throughout the story including a brief visit in Russia.
Shawntelle Madison gives Natalya Stravinsky her happily ever after in COMPLELLED. Although our heroine will never completely recover from the emotional disorders that at one time had a strangle hold on her life, Natalya is a werewolf who is worthy of the title Alpha Female and all of the perks that are associated with the position.
Copy supplied by Netgalley.
May 6, 2014
This is part of the authors Coveted series about werewolf Natalya Stravinsky and her journey from neurotic female to alpha werewolf . It's been a long and hard journey for Nat and it's far from over. Oh yes she's got Thorn the mate of her dreams finally in her life but the future is far from bright. Thorn has been cursed and everyday a little bit more of his life is leeching away. All Nat wants is to save him but sometimes what you want and what you get are not the same thing.
War is knocking on the supernatural worlds door . Warlocks versus wizards and somehow the werewolves are going to be caught up in the middle of it. Werewolves have their own magic but werewolf spell casters are rare and feared as dark magic brings danger . Nat won't let a little thing such as fear or prejudice stop her though and is prepared to go to the ends of the earth ( or Russia !) if that's what it takes to save her mate Thorn. It's a journey that will test her but it's one she's determined to make and Nat is prepared to do whatever it takes no matter the cost.
Nat is a character who seems to have finally come of age . She's a sufferer of OCD and to call her a neat freak is putting it mildly! By nature a werewolf is not the cleanest thing to imagine as images of slobber and shedding of hair permeate my head so the stress this woman goes through is surely incomparable . Yet in this story she pulls up her big girl panties and tries her best to ignore certain aspects of things around her. Oh it's not easy and she isn't perfect but her drive is unquestionable . There are almost two aspects to this story as on the one hand we have the war breaking out with warlocks and demons taking on wizards and the more peaceful Supernaturals . Whilst at the same time Nat is trying her hardest to learn how to channel her own powers and use old magic to try to save Thorn . She's caught in the middle and her actions will help determine the outcome of the coming battle .
I really liked the character development of Natalya in this story but couldn't help but feel Thorn was one dimensional and underused. He's an alpha male and although he's dying by increments I just expected more from him. What did please me was the supporting characters and a certain dwarf whose loyalty warmed my heart. That's probably what helped raise this story as the varied characters that Nat interacts with each have a part to play in her quest .
Nat is never going to be the most kick ass heroine around but she's come a long way. She's a woman learning to deal with her own assorted weaknesses but has gained confidence from knowing she has innermost strength. This was a book that I found to be engaging with surprises along the way. Ms Maddison is proving to be a truly versatile author and I'm never quite sure what to expect from her. Would I read more? Oh most definitely yes and if you enjoy reading about werewolves and magic then you should too!
War is knocking on the supernatural worlds door . Warlocks versus wizards and somehow the werewolves are going to be caught up in the middle of it. Werewolves have their own magic but werewolf spell casters are rare and feared as dark magic brings danger . Nat won't let a little thing such as fear or prejudice stop her though and is prepared to go to the ends of the earth ( or Russia !) if that's what it takes to save her mate Thorn. It's a journey that will test her but it's one she's determined to make and Nat is prepared to do whatever it takes no matter the cost.
Nat is a character who seems to have finally come of age . She's a sufferer of OCD and to call her a neat freak is putting it mildly! By nature a werewolf is not the cleanest thing to imagine as images of slobber and shedding of hair permeate my head so the stress this woman goes through is surely incomparable . Yet in this story she pulls up her big girl panties and tries her best to ignore certain aspects of things around her. Oh it's not easy and she isn't perfect but her drive is unquestionable . There are almost two aspects to this story as on the one hand we have the war breaking out with warlocks and demons taking on wizards and the more peaceful Supernaturals . Whilst at the same time Nat is trying her hardest to learn how to channel her own powers and use old magic to try to save Thorn . She's caught in the middle and her actions will help determine the outcome of the coming battle .
I really liked the character development of Natalya in this story but couldn't help but feel Thorn was one dimensional and underused. He's an alpha male and although he's dying by increments I just expected more from him. What did please me was the supporting characters and a certain dwarf whose loyalty warmed my heart. That's probably what helped raise this story as the varied characters that Nat interacts with each have a part to play in her quest .
Nat is never going to be the most kick ass heroine around but she's come a long way. She's a woman learning to deal with her own assorted weaknesses but has gained confidence from knowing she has innermost strength. This was a book that I found to be engaging with surprises along the way. Ms Maddison is proving to be a truly versatile author and I'm never quite sure what to expect from her. Would I read more? Oh most definitely yes and if you enjoy reading about werewolves and magic then you should too!
July 1, 2014
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy
COMPELLED is another solid installment of the Coveted series. I enjoyed seeing Natalya’s growth from where she started as a ‘exile’ of sorts at the beginning of the series to alpha female of the South Toms River pack. She is by no means ‘cured’ of her OCD which I liked at some magical being could have so easily magicked it away. The fact that she doesn’t have any easy out for dealing with her OCD and has to constantly work on it makes her character development all the more impressive and exciting to read. While Nat will never be the most physically strong, her inner strength and confidence has grown in spades in COMPELLED.
I really enjoy the idea that werewolves can perform magic beyond the obvious shifting form in this series. The magic training scenes were kind of reminicent of Star Wars where Luke goes to learn the Force from Yoda except Natalya has a couple of old Russian women teaching her things instead. I I really enjoyed the secondary characters such as Natalya’s dwarf friend, Tyler who happens to be a male model whose loyalty really shines during some important moments. I would have loved to learn more about him and his struggles in dwarf society as a very tall dwarf but like many other loose ends in this story it is never expounded on.
This story is not only about a journey of discovery but a journey made out of pure love and desire for Natalya to save her husband Thorn’s life. Risking your life by facing a powerful evil is the definition of a ‘grand gesture’ of one’s love and dedication. While Thorn isn’t really present in the book as he is very weak, he is felt in every decision Natalya makes because she is risking life and limb for him which is true love.
COMPELLED culminated a journey of great growth and completion in Natalya’s struggle to have peace and satisfaction in her life. The plot is fast paced and is a magical whirlwind journey of discovery and adventure for Nat and her friend and family.
COMPELLED is another solid installment of the Coveted series. I enjoyed seeing Natalya’s growth from where she started as a ‘exile’ of sorts at the beginning of the series to alpha female of the South Toms River pack. She is by no means ‘cured’ of her OCD which I liked at some magical being could have so easily magicked it away. The fact that she doesn’t have any easy out for dealing with her OCD and has to constantly work on it makes her character development all the more impressive and exciting to read. While Nat will never be the most physically strong, her inner strength and confidence has grown in spades in COMPELLED.
I really enjoy the idea that werewolves can perform magic beyond the obvious shifting form in this series. The magic training scenes were kind of reminicent of Star Wars where Luke goes to learn the Force from Yoda except Natalya has a couple of old Russian women teaching her things instead. I I really enjoyed the secondary characters such as Natalya’s dwarf friend, Tyler who happens to be a male model whose loyalty really shines during some important moments. I would have loved to learn more about him and his struggles in dwarf society as a very tall dwarf but like many other loose ends in this story it is never expounded on.
This story is not only about a journey of discovery but a journey made out of pure love and desire for Natalya to save her husband Thorn’s life. Risking your life by facing a powerful evil is the definition of a ‘grand gesture’ of one’s love and dedication. While Thorn isn’t really present in the book as he is very weak, he is felt in every decision Natalya makes because she is risking life and limb for him which is true love.
COMPELLED culminated a journey of great growth and completion in Natalya’s struggle to have peace and satisfaction in her life. The plot is fast paced and is a magical whirlwind journey of discovery and adventure for Nat and her friend and family.
June 3, 2014
The third book in the Coveted series is a mesmerizing read that takes readers on a magical adventure. No distance is too far, for stubborn werewolf Natalya because she will find a way to save Thorn, even if she does have to travel to Russia and master complex spells.
This steady paced plot keeps readers intrigued with suspense, drama, action and magical spells. The author describes the story will well written scenes and events that capture the imagination and anticipation builds throughout the story as danger escalates and Natalya finds herself rescuing wizards and fighting warlocks, all on a quest to find a way to save Thorn. The strong compelling characters are easily related to and grab the reader’s attention from the very beginning.
This urban fantasy grips the heart of the reader and doesn’t let go, they can’t help but get caught up in the story and the emotional turmoil that Natalya goes through on her journey. The reader can’t help but admire her determination to do what it takes to save the one she loves, so while there isn’t a lot of sex in the story, there is the true meaning of love that pours through the book from every page.
The author keeps the readers on their toes with some surprising twists along the way and lots of intriguing characters that reach out and grab the reader’s curiosity as along with Natalya, they fight the warlocks and help Natalya find a way to break the curse. New characters are also introduced that I hope to read more about in the future. Natalya has a lot to learn on her quest, little does she know that she has one major thing to learn and accept about herself that will be the key to getting everything she wants.
I was totally caught up in the book from the beginning, although it did start off a little slow but that could be the transition from one book to the next so I do recommend that the series be read in order to get the maximum understanding of the events that have taken place and how the characters arrived at the point where they are now.
This steady paced plot keeps readers intrigued with suspense, drama, action and magical spells. The author describes the story will well written scenes and events that capture the imagination and anticipation builds throughout the story as danger escalates and Natalya finds herself rescuing wizards and fighting warlocks, all on a quest to find a way to save Thorn. The strong compelling characters are easily related to and grab the reader’s attention from the very beginning.
This urban fantasy grips the heart of the reader and doesn’t let go, they can’t help but get caught up in the story and the emotional turmoil that Natalya goes through on her journey. The reader can’t help but admire her determination to do what it takes to save the one she loves, so while there isn’t a lot of sex in the story, there is the true meaning of love that pours through the book from every page.
The author keeps the readers on their toes with some surprising twists along the way and lots of intriguing characters that reach out and grab the reader’s curiosity as along with Natalya, they fight the warlocks and help Natalya find a way to break the curse. New characters are also introduced that I hope to read more about in the future. Natalya has a lot to learn on her quest, little does she know that she has one major thing to learn and accept about herself that will be the key to getting everything she wants.
I was totally caught up in the book from the beginning, although it did start off a little slow but that could be the transition from one book to the next so I do recommend that the series be read in order to get the maximum understanding of the events that have taken place and how the characters arrived at the point where they are now.
May 5, 2014
Review Courtesy of April Hollingworth
This is the third book in the series. Though you can read it on its own I would recommend reading the complete series in order, as the books continue from one another. I personally enjoyed Compelled and how Natalya found her inner courage to leave the man she loves and her pack so she can try and find a cure while knowing that her beloved husband might die at any moment. It begs the question how far would you be willing to go for those you love?
Opening Scene:
Prologue
Years of suffering and solitude can change in a moment.
The Review:
Natalya hears in passing that Old Magic can possibly cure the darkness that is killing her husband Thorn. Taking a chance she leaves to travel to Russia, with the help of the gorgeous Tyler they travel to find Tamara a wolf who knows the banned Old Magic of the werewolves and who is also trying to find the cure. Natalya’s journey brings her out of her comfort zone and throws her into danger more times than she can count but with the elusive knowledge just out of her reach will Natalya find the knowledge and ability to cure Thorn before it’s too late?
Notable Scene:
I drew my nose to his chest and inhaled. His wonderful scent whispered poetry to my soul, and any pain I had wilted away. until he succumbed to what was bleeding his life away. As to when he would die, I didn’t know. All I knew was that Thorn didn’t have decades, or maybe even years left. With his arms wrapped around me and mine over his shoulders, no one could take him away from me-for now.
I held onto that. I’d waited this long for him. I will covet the time we had together until the very end.
FTC Advisory: Shawntelle Madison through Net Galley provided me with a copy of Compelled by Shawntelle Madison. Published through Shawntelle Madison. Kindle Edition. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review
This is the third book in the series. Though you can read it on its own I would recommend reading the complete series in order, as the books continue from one another. I personally enjoyed Compelled and how Natalya found her inner courage to leave the man she loves and her pack so she can try and find a cure while knowing that her beloved husband might die at any moment. It begs the question how far would you be willing to go for those you love?
Opening Scene:
Prologue
Years of suffering and solitude can change in a moment.
The Review:
Natalya hears in passing that Old Magic can possibly cure the darkness that is killing her husband Thorn. Taking a chance she leaves to travel to Russia, with the help of the gorgeous Tyler they travel to find Tamara a wolf who knows the banned Old Magic of the werewolves and who is also trying to find the cure. Natalya’s journey brings her out of her comfort zone and throws her into danger more times than she can count but with the elusive knowledge just out of her reach will Natalya find the knowledge and ability to cure Thorn before it’s too late?
Notable Scene:
I drew my nose to his chest and inhaled. His wonderful scent whispered poetry to my soul, and any pain I had wilted away. until he succumbed to what was bleeding his life away. As to when he would die, I didn’t know. All I knew was that Thorn didn’t have decades, or maybe even years left. With his arms wrapped around me and mine over his shoulders, no one could take him away from me-for now.
I held onto that. I’d waited this long for him. I will covet the time we had together until the very end.
FTC Advisory: Shawntelle Madison through Net Galley provided me with a copy of Compelled by Shawntelle Madison. Published through Shawntelle Madison. Kindle Edition. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review
July 29, 2016
I am a big fan of this series and this author. I was so excited to get another look at Natalya’s world and at Natalya herself. I always really like quirky, imperfect characters and Natalya’s issues were definitely some of my favorite. She went through a lot in the last two books and I loved seeing her come back in this book stronger than ever. Of course, she still had some of her little quirks, but she wasn’t as neurotic as she had been in the beginning. Natalya’s main focus was Thorn and I think because she had something to fight for, she was ten times more badass than she had been in previous books.
There were a lot of characters in this book, some old familiar faces, some favorite characters mentioned in name only, but also a lot of new people for us to get to know. Some moments it got a little confusing to follow along and I found myself forgetting who was who and where they came from. The big climactic fight scene could have had my head spinning with all of the people involved, but Shawntelle did a great job ramping up the action and keeping everyone straight.
I think this is the last of Natalya’s books and that makes me sad. I would love to see more of her and Thorn ruling side by side and kicking butt. Hopefully, though this will not be the last of this world. Perhaps, the wizards could get a story…maybe we’ll see Nick again? Either way, I’ll definitely be reading more by Shawntelle Madison in the future and I can’t wait.
Arc provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an honest review
There were a lot of characters in this book, some old familiar faces, some favorite characters mentioned in name only, but also a lot of new people for us to get to know. Some moments it got a little confusing to follow along and I found myself forgetting who was who and where they came from. The big climactic fight scene could have had my head spinning with all of the people involved, but Shawntelle did a great job ramping up the action and keeping everyone straight.
I think this is the last of Natalya’s books and that makes me sad. I would love to see more of her and Thorn ruling side by side and kicking butt. Hopefully, though this will not be the last of this world. Perhaps, the wizards could get a story…maybe we’ll see Nick again? Either way, I’ll definitely be reading more by Shawntelle Madison in the future and I can’t wait.
Arc provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an honest review
June 11, 2014
In this thrilling tale, Nat must risk everything including her own life to save Thorn. Thorn’s black curse from his 5 year prison sentence is slowly killing him. Nat refuses to live her life without him and sets off to Russia to find a way to lift the curse. One of the best things about this novel is how much Nat has grown. Her inner confidence is finally blossoming and she’s winning her battle with her inner demons. She has beautifully transformed from a meek, depressed woman to a ferocious alpha female that will get her hands dirty to save the one she loves. She embraces the familial magic within her to aid her travels to find the cure and face off in a magically war brewing. While Thorn is more of a background character with his illness, he’s still madly in love with Nat. As he always has told her, I’m always around whether you know I am or not. Nick being absent from the book was the only downside to this newest addition to the Coveted family.
Having read all three novels in one sitting, I must admit Shawntelle Madison has a new fan. Every book trumps the previous one in how much I love this series. Nat‘s character development flows throughout the three books in the series thus far. If Kept’s story (book #2) sucked me into Nat’s story, then Compelled has permanently cemented into her world. As much as I loved Kept, Compelled is 1000% better. My recommendation: Add this to your story now!!!
Having read all three novels in one sitting, I must admit Shawntelle Madison has a new fan. Every book trumps the previous one in how much I love this series. Nat‘s character development flows throughout the three books in the series thus far. If Kept’s story (book #2) sucked me into Nat’s story, then Compelled has permanently cemented into her world. As much as I loved Kept, Compelled is 1000% better. My recommendation: Add this to your story now!!!
October 18, 2014
So, I still haven't read book one, I know nuts. BUT I've read book two and now this one, and it's a very good ending! I really enjoyed getting to know Nat and the people surrounding her. And now, with who she is and what she's become, it's bitter sweet. Plus, it's hilarious that she's an OCD werewolf!! I also love that we learn a little bit of magic can happen too :) Nat goes to Russia to learn that magic and those women are a trip. And the secondary characters are some of the best parts of this book! Her friend Tyler, yeah he's a drawf, who's a male model LOL
The plot is great and kept the pages turning for me. And the love between Nat and Thorn is wonderful, especially after reading book two with their predicament. You learn so much about Thorn, though he isn't as "present" as he was in book two. And Nat's risking her life to save him. Yep, it's all about true love!!
This is supposed to be the last of this series, but I am really hoping that one day, we get more of them! I loved Nat's crazy family, even if I wanted to shoot most of them. And seeing her brother and her grandmother, who are AWESOME, with their lives continuing make it all the more special. This is a great addition to the series. 5 PAWS!!!
The plot is great and kept the pages turning for me. And the love between Nat and Thorn is wonderful, especially after reading book two with their predicament. You learn so much about Thorn, though he isn't as "present" as he was in book two. And Nat's risking her life to save him. Yep, it's all about true love!!
This is supposed to be the last of this series, but I am really hoping that one day, we get more of them! I loved Nat's crazy family, even if I wanted to shoot most of them. And seeing her brother and her grandmother, who are AWESOME, with their lives continuing make it all the more special. This is a great addition to the series. 5 PAWS!!!
June 20, 2014
Eu adoro fantasias urbanas, desde que sejam bem escritas e este terceiro livro da série Coveted é, tanto como os anteriores, um livro excelente. Para além de ter um capa Uau!!
O livro é cheio de acção, drama e muito mistério. Shawntelle constrói o mundo de uma maneira que facilmente se formou na minha imaginação, tornando tudo muito real, fazendo também com todo o perigo assim o seja.
Natalya tem de encontrar uma maneira de salva Thorn, dê por onde der, mesmo que isso implique aprender a dominar feitiços complexos, ela irá fazê-lo.
Acho que foi este desejo que me prendeu ao livro, o de Natalya e dos seus pequenos e grandes perigos que atravessa para salvar de quem ela gosta, porque tudo isto se torna demasiado emocional e não pude deixar de me sentir cada vez mais ligada tanto a ela como a história.
Todas as personagens são fascinantes e cativantes, principalmente Natalya claro, mas vão-se sempre juntando ao longo do livro cada vez mais personagens, todas a seu tempo, que de uma maneira ou de outra vão ajudar e ensinar Natalya a encontrar uma maneira de quebrar a maldição. Algumas das personagens espero vê-los em breve porque eram únicos e não podem ser deixados para trás.
Sim! É excelente e já me estou a roer para ler o próximo.
O livro é cheio de acção, drama e muito mistério. Shawntelle constrói o mundo de uma maneira que facilmente se formou na minha imaginação, tornando tudo muito real, fazendo também com todo o perigo assim o seja.
Natalya tem de encontrar uma maneira de salva Thorn, dê por onde der, mesmo que isso implique aprender a dominar feitiços complexos, ela irá fazê-lo.
Acho que foi este desejo que me prendeu ao livro, o de Natalya e dos seus pequenos e grandes perigos que atravessa para salvar de quem ela gosta, porque tudo isto se torna demasiado emocional e não pude deixar de me sentir cada vez mais ligada tanto a ela como a história.
Todas as personagens são fascinantes e cativantes, principalmente Natalya claro, mas vão-se sempre juntando ao longo do livro cada vez mais personagens, todas a seu tempo, que de uma maneira ou de outra vão ajudar e ensinar Natalya a encontrar uma maneira de quebrar a maldição. Algumas das personagens espero vê-los em breve porque eram únicos e não podem ser deixados para trás.
Sim! É excelente e já me estou a roer para ler o próximo.
November 6, 2014
I very much enjoyed the first two book in this series, so was very happy to get my trotters on a signed version of Compelled. Some reviewers seemed to be disappointed by this book though, so I was afraid to start on it, and only recently picked it up from my TBR-pile.
And I must say I really liked it!
Thorn being cursed and losing his strength meant that he wasn't as annoyingly present as in the last book. Yes: he may be Natalya's love interest, but I do not like him. So without Thorn constantly in Natalya's way, trying to wipe her nose for her, she could actually get the job done.
Some of the characters from the previous books got more depth and screentime, and there were some interesting new characters as well. I was a little bummed that my favorite character had just disappeared and wasn't in this book, but that is a minor grumble.
Overall this book is fun, full of action, and very entertaining. This is the last book in this series as far as I know, and it does end satisfying where it comes to Natalya and her quests. There are some things left open for other characters, so I'm curious if Madison will address those in novella's or spin-off books. I will keep my eyes out for news!
And I must say I really liked it!
Thorn being cursed and losing his strength meant that he wasn't as annoyingly present as in the last book. Yes: he may be Natalya's love interest, but I do not like him. So without Thorn constantly in Natalya's way, trying to wipe her nose for her, she could actually get the job done.
Some of the characters from the previous books got more depth and screentime, and there were some interesting new characters as well. I was a little bummed that my favorite character had just disappeared and wasn't in this book, but that is a minor grumble.
Overall this book is fun, full of action, and very entertaining. This is the last book in this series as far as I know, and it does end satisfying where it comes to Natalya and her quests. There are some things left open for other characters, so I'm curious if Madison will address those in novella's or spin-off books. I will keep my eyes out for news!
June 21, 2014
So I jumped in and accidentally read the third book of a trilogy without reading the first two. I hate that. I wish I had read the first two, but this one was pretty good anyway. The world building and the characters were interesting, but I felt like I was missing quite a bit, because I was.
Natalya is an alpha female werewolf. Her husband is dying and she wants to find the cure to his curse.
She has quite an adventure, and learns quite a bit about magic with the help of some old friends and some new. Natalya has OCD and is a hoarder, which makes things interesting. I missed the first two books but she seems to have grown. I enjoyed this adventure with magic, magical creatures, and magical war. I just wished there had been more Thorn. She mentioned him quite a bit, but he was actually in the story very little.
Natalya is an alpha female werewolf. Her husband is dying and she wants to find the cure to his curse.
She has quite an adventure, and learns quite a bit about magic with the help of some old friends and some new. Natalya has OCD and is a hoarder, which makes things interesting. I missed the first two books but she seems to have grown. I enjoyed this adventure with magic, magical creatures, and magical war. I just wished there had been more Thorn. She mentioned him quite a bit, but he was actually in the story very little.
June 6, 2014
Beautiful cover! I really enjoyed the previous books in the Coveted Series. After KEPT I was excited to see what would happen now that Natalya and Thorn were finally together. Unfortunately a good bit of COMPELLED took place with them apart and when they were together it was away from the pack and while Thorn was deathly ill.
Overall there was a lot of character growth and Natalya did a lot of self learning but I missed her family and friends and I was really hoping to have them more involved in clan life now that the happy couple was finally together.
* This book was provided free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Overall there was a lot of character growth and Natalya did a lot of self learning but I missed her family and friends and I was really hoping to have them more involved in clan life now that the happy couple was finally together.
* This book was provided free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2016
NetGalley Free Book
Natalya Stravinsky has married the man of her dreams and became the female pack leader to her wolf tribe. Now she must stop the war that has started and save her husbands life from a magic spell.
This book was your typical supernatural themed book. A strong woman who falls in love and must save the day. A husband who will do anything for her and friends that will back her all the way.
It is overly predictable and bit mundane. I really like the authors writing style however. There is a wonderful ebb and flow between paragraph and chapters. The characters are likable and I found myself rooting for them.
Natalya Stravinsky has married the man of her dreams and became the female pack leader to her wolf tribe. Now she must stop the war that has started and save her husbands life from a magic spell.
This book was your typical supernatural themed book. A strong woman who falls in love and must save the day. A husband who will do anything for her and friends that will back her all the way.
It is overly predictable and bit mundane. I really like the authors writing style however. There is a wonderful ebb and flow between paragraph and chapters. The characters are likable and I found myself rooting for them.
May 7, 2014
This final instalment was a bit of a disappoint for me. Not only were there parts I felt unfinished e.x Nick being MIA the entire book and Thorn basically on the sideline but the storyline had some parts that I felt just didn't add up. I don't know about any body else, but for me......I feel that if your gonna have main characters.....then let them play the main character not just a visitor who graces the pages every now and then. I just wanted this book to finally finish this series off. Instead it just left me with a WTF attitude.
May 12, 2014
Cover & Title - 4 out of 5
Favourite quote - "I've lain with him before." ... "He's much better at swinging a sword than wielding the blade in his trousers."
Favourite Character - Natalya
As I hadn't read any of the books previous to this one I had no connection nor history with any of the characters when I began the book. I did develop interest through reading but not as much as I would of liked. I feel like the fact I had not read from the start hindered my enjoyment of the story quite a lot so if you decide to read this book make sure you start at the beginning of the series!
Favourite quote - "I've lain with him before." ... "He's much better at swinging a sword than wielding the blade in his trousers."
Favourite Character - Natalya
As I hadn't read any of the books previous to this one I had no connection nor history with any of the characters when I began the book. I did develop interest through reading but not as much as I would of liked. I feel like the fact I had not read from the start hindered my enjoyment of the story quite a lot so if you decide to read this book make sure you start at the beginning of the series!
May 5, 2014
This is the third book in the Coveted series. And I thought it was better than the first two.
I enjoyed this book a lot. The story is progressing nicely and is well done. It is easy to follow and a nice fast read.
All the characters blended nicely into a strongly woven story with all the quirks and strengths.
If you have read the first two and like them, you will like this one.
* received a arc copy from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
May 22, 2014
I didn't know what I would think about this book as I haven't read the first two in series. I was, pleasantly, surprised by how much I enjoyed it. This is a wonderful example of a series that keeps you yearning for more. I will be reading this first two books and patiently wait for more. Thank you for the great ride.
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