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X-Ops #1
Her Perfect Mate
He's a High-Octane Special Ops Pro
When Special Forces Captain Landon Donovan is pulled from an op in Afghanistan, he is surprised to discover he's been hand-picked for a special assignment with the Department of Covert Operations (DCO), a secret division he's never heard of. Terrorists are kidnapping biologists and he and his partner have to stop them. But his new partner is a beautiful, sexy woman who looks like she couldn't hurt a fly-never mind take down a terrorist.
She's Not Your Average Covert Operative
Ivy Halliwell is no kitten. She's a feline shifter, and more dangerous than she looks. She's worked with a string of hotheaded military guys who've underestimated her special skills in the past. But when she's partnered with special agent Donovan, a man sexy enough to make any girl purr, things begin to heat up...
X-Ops Series
Her Perfect Mate (Book 1)
Her Lone Wolf (Book 2)
Her Secret Agent (novella)
Her Wild Hero (Book 3)
Her Fierce Warrior (Book 4)
Her Rogue Alpha (Book 5)
Her True Match (coming March 2017)
When Special Forces Captain Landon Donovan is pulled from an op in Afghanistan, he is surprised to discover he's been hand-picked for a special assignment with the Department of Covert Operations (DCO), a secret division he's never heard of. Terrorists are kidnapping biologists and he and his partner have to stop them. But his new partner is a beautiful, sexy woman who looks like she couldn't hurt a fly-never mind take down a terrorist.
She's Not Your Average Covert Operative
Ivy Halliwell is no kitten. She's a feline shifter, and more dangerous than she looks. She's worked with a string of hotheaded military guys who've underestimated her special skills in the past. But when she's partnered with special agent Donovan, a man sexy enough to make any girl purr, things begin to heat up...
X-Ops Series
Her Perfect Mate (Book 1)
Her Lone Wolf (Book 2)
Her Secret Agent (novella)
Her Wild Hero (Book 3)
Her Fierce Warrior (Book 4)
Her Rogue Alpha (Book 5)
Her True Match (coming March 2017)
316 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 6, 2014
587 people are currently reading
2778 people want to read
About the author
Paige Tyler
185 books2,065 followersPaige Tyler is a New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author of sexy, romantic suspense and paranormal romance. She and her very own military hero (also known as her husband) live on the beautiful Florida coast with their adorable fur baby (also known as their dog). Paige graduated with a degree in education, but decided to pursue her passion and write books about hunky alpha males and the kick-butt heroines who fall in love with them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 378 reviews
May 27, 2014
Reading is subjective and what one person likes another won't. Thank goodness we all know this, because I have to admit that, despite generally good reviews, I pretty much hated this book. More accurately, I hated the character portrayals, Ivy especially.
The short version is that weak, teary, insecure heroines who are supposed to be top agents but spend all their time jumping to ridiculous, self-effacing conclusions and whinging, make me want to scratch my own eyes out with a dulled lemon zester.
Pair them with a man, described as practically god-like and allowed to makes all the decisions for himself and, said, pretend strong female lead and I'm ready to throw my head in an electric mixer instead. I'm just totally baffled how anyone could think this is the type of pairing self-assured women would want to relate to.
I considered casting the book on the DNF pile at ~35%. At this point Ivy had made what she perceived to be a mistake on a mission. When her partner appears angry she got teary, emotional and evasive. The reader was then subjected to pages of her weepy self-recriminations and ridiculously jumping to conclusions. All this followed by giving in to her passion for Landon.
Said another way, the author took a supposedly strong female character, broke her down and proved her to in fact be extremely fragile (as all women apparently should be) then threw her in the arms of a man. All this as if to suggest that given a stressful situation Ivy couldn't be expected to control her emotions too and that the man's sexual appreciation would prove her self-worth and, as Landon seemed to find it all so darned attractive, it must really be OK in the end anyway. Gag, I say. GAG!
When I pick up a book with a purported strong, skilled heroine, that's what I want, not some weepy pseudo-damsel in distress whose only evidence of inner strength comes from the compliments of the hero.
Speaking of our hero, Landon, he can apparently do no wrong. Perfect hardly scratches his surface. He is utterly and unbelievably unflappable. Come on, finding out that your new partner is a shifter, when you didn't even know they existed, requires at least one expletive. It just does! But he never even cocked an eyebrow. Plus, he's gorgeous, ripped, polite, loyal, trustworthy, good in bed, tough, dangerous, sexy, etc. He needs a flaw...at least one.
But the thing that pushed me over the top, that made me go from grumbling discontent to flat out hostile dislike was seeing the two of them interact. Landon joined the DOC in the beginning of the book. Ivy however had worked for them for a number of years. So, even though he's plenty experienced in the military, he's the newbie to the DOC and what they do. HOWEVER, not once (pay attention, NOT ONCE) does she make a plan, give an instruction or take the decision-making role in one of their missions.
They are supposed to be partners, but behaviourally she's his subordinate...DESPITE HER SENIORITY. I guess that vagina negates it, because he's definitely in charge and she's just barely hanging on as a sidekick. Plus, in addition to all her internal insecurities (that she really shouldn't have if she's a valued, experienced field agent and has been a shifter since birth) she's shown to be inept repeatedly while Landon makes no such mistakes. There is a definite sense that the woman in this situation really needs a man to take care of her and her job because she obviously can't cut it on her own. What kind of Bologna is that? The kind that's been dogging women for generations. Dare I say it again...GAG!
And it only got worse. Not only was Ivy inept, insecure, prone to jumping to conclusions and endlessly second guessing herself, she also wasn't even competent enough to control HERSELF. It was amazing how many times the phrase "she couldn't help herself," or something similar was used in reference to her. (But almost never for Landon, I might add.)
Then there was the sorry excuse for sexual control. The whole idea of being 'in heat'(which was never established to be a sure thing, just an excuse really) felt a whole lot like the recurring 'women can't control their urges' BS that backdoors permission for a whole hell of a lot of problematic behaviour.
So, she can't control her animal side, she can't control her self-emulating thoughts, she can't control her own sexual urges, she doesn't control their mission...what can she control? **That's the sound of silence, yeah?**
Moving past the painful gender disparities of this book, the fact that she is a natural-born shifter is also problematic, since there is no world building. There's no indication that shifters are kept super secret in general, Ivy's sister is living a normal life and other shifters have normal jobs, for example. But it is inferred that no one knows about them. The DOC doesn't want her blood work (DNA) seen by the CDC, for example. Certainly, Landon didn't seem to have known shifters exist. Um, how does that work then? I needed a lot more to situate shifters into the contemporary world.
Lastly, there is the romance. *shakes head* It's pretty much a case of insta-lust. I could live with that. We're dealing with shifters and finding and pairing with 'mates' is a fairly common trope in the genre. But honestly, within less than a month he's offering to give up his career to make her happy and asking her to marry him. Really? Is that believable?
Plus, the book is contradictory, as an example (thought I suppose the not hidden secret shifters is already an example) Ivy goes on and on about how freeing it is to finally find and be with a man who knows what she is so she can let it loose in bed. But she has a shifter-friend who's been fairly aggressive in pursuing her romantically. So, even if she chooses not to accept his affections it's obvious that she hasn't been without opportunities to let her shifter free in the sexual sense. How can the book simultaneously say some opportunity doesn't exist and use the same as a side challenge for one of the characters? Am I supposed to not notice?
So, final thoughts? Mechanically, structurally and editorially this book is fine. Ms. Tyler can write...it's just too darned bad I hated what she wrote so much. I'd be willing to selectively give her work another shot to see if it's just this book that rubbed me wrong. Certainly, her prose are perfectly readable. But if I had a physical copy of this book I would be tempted to burn it. As it is, I'll have to satisfy myself with the delete button.
The short version is that weak, teary, insecure heroines who are supposed to be top agents but spend all their time jumping to ridiculous, self-effacing conclusions and whinging, make me want to scratch my own eyes out with a dulled lemon zester.
Pair them with a man, described as practically god-like and allowed to makes all the decisions for himself and, said, pretend strong female lead and I'm ready to throw my head in an electric mixer instead. I'm just totally baffled how anyone could think this is the type of pairing self-assured women would want to relate to.
I considered casting the book on the DNF pile at ~35%. At this point Ivy had made what she perceived to be a mistake on a mission. When her partner appears angry she got teary, emotional and evasive. The reader was then subjected to pages of her weepy self-recriminations and ridiculously jumping to conclusions. All this followed by giving in to her passion for Landon.
Said another way, the author took a supposedly strong female character, broke her down and proved her to in fact be extremely fragile (as all women apparently should be) then threw her in the arms of a man. All this as if to suggest that given a stressful situation Ivy couldn't be expected to control her emotions too and that the man's sexual appreciation would prove her self-worth and, as Landon seemed to find it all so darned attractive, it must really be OK in the end anyway. Gag, I say. GAG!
When I pick up a book with a purported strong, skilled heroine, that's what I want, not some weepy pseudo-damsel in distress whose only evidence of inner strength comes from the compliments of the hero.
Speaking of our hero, Landon, he can apparently do no wrong. Perfect hardly scratches his surface. He is utterly and unbelievably unflappable. Come on, finding out that your new partner is a shifter, when you didn't even know they existed, requires at least one expletive. It just does! But he never even cocked an eyebrow. Plus, he's gorgeous, ripped, polite, loyal, trustworthy, good in bed, tough, dangerous, sexy, etc. He needs a flaw...at least one.
But the thing that pushed me over the top, that made me go from grumbling discontent to flat out hostile dislike was seeing the two of them interact. Landon joined the DOC in the beginning of the book. Ivy however had worked for them for a number of years. So, even though he's plenty experienced in the military, he's the newbie to the DOC and what they do. HOWEVER, not once (pay attention, NOT ONCE) does she make a plan, give an instruction or take the decision-making role in one of their missions.
They are supposed to be partners, but behaviourally she's his subordinate...DESPITE HER SENIORITY. I guess that vagina negates it, because he's definitely in charge and she's just barely hanging on as a sidekick. Plus, in addition to all her internal insecurities (that she really shouldn't have if she's a valued, experienced field agent and has been a shifter since birth) she's shown to be inept repeatedly while Landon makes no such mistakes. There is a definite sense that the woman in this situation really needs a man to take care of her and her job because she obviously can't cut it on her own. What kind of Bologna is that? The kind that's been dogging women for generations. Dare I say it again...GAG!
And it only got worse. Not only was Ivy inept, insecure, prone to jumping to conclusions and endlessly second guessing herself, she also wasn't even competent enough to control HERSELF. It was amazing how many times the phrase "she couldn't help herself," or something similar was used in reference to her. (But almost never for Landon, I might add.)
Then there was the sorry excuse for sexual control. The whole idea of being 'in heat'(which was never established to be a sure thing, just an excuse really) felt a whole lot like the recurring 'women can't control their urges' BS that backdoors permission for a whole hell of a lot of problematic behaviour.
So, she can't control her animal side, she can't control her self-emulating thoughts, she can't control her own sexual urges, she doesn't control their mission...what can she control? **That's the sound of silence, yeah?**
Moving past the painful gender disparities of this book, the fact that she is a natural-born shifter is also problematic, since there is no world building. There's no indication that shifters are kept super secret in general, Ivy's sister is living a normal life and other shifters have normal jobs, for example. But it is inferred that no one knows about them. The DOC doesn't want her blood work (DNA) seen by the CDC, for example. Certainly, Landon didn't seem to have known shifters exist. Um, how does that work then? I needed a lot more to situate shifters into the contemporary world.
Lastly, there is the romance. *shakes head* It's pretty much a case of insta-lust. I could live with that. We're dealing with shifters and finding and pairing with 'mates' is a fairly common trope in the genre. But honestly, within less than a month he's offering to give up his career to make her happy and asking her to marry him. Really? Is that believable?
Plus, the book is contradictory, as an example (thought I suppose the not hidden secret shifters is already an example) Ivy goes on and on about how freeing it is to finally find and be with a man who knows what she is so she can let it loose in bed. But she has a shifter-friend who's been fairly aggressive in pursuing her romantically. So, even if she chooses not to accept his affections it's obvious that she hasn't been without opportunities to let her shifter free in the sexual sense. How can the book simultaneously say some opportunity doesn't exist and use the same as a side challenge for one of the characters? Am I supposed to not notice?
So, final thoughts? Mechanically, structurally and editorially this book is fine. Ms. Tyler can write...it's just too darned bad I hated what she wrote so much. I'd be willing to selectively give her work another shot to see if it's just this book that rubbed me wrong. Certainly, her prose are perfectly readable. But if I had a physical copy of this book I would be tempted to burn it. As it is, I'll have to satisfy myself with the delete button.
September 8, 2017
Her Perfect Mate, by Paige Tyler, is a wonderful paranormal romance.
We are introduced to Special Forces Captain Landon Donovan who is paired up with sexy female shifter Ivy Halliwell.
The chemistry between the two was scorchingly hot and when combined with a suspenseful covert operation it was a real page turner!
I look forward to the next book in her X-Ops series.
We are introduced to Special Forces Captain Landon Donovan who is paired up with sexy female shifter Ivy Halliwell.
The chemistry between the two was scorchingly hot and when combined with a suspenseful covert operation it was a real page turner!
I look forward to the next book in her X-Ops series.
April 26, 2014
Ms Tyler has a new hit series on her hands with this perfect mix of Military men and a group of shifters who work for the Department of Covert Affairs. Right from the start you are pulled into the story about Special Forces soldier Landon Donovan who is pulled off a mission and reassigned to work with the DCO. He’s not happy about it at first but his ethics make him keep an open mind and he really needs it when he not only finds out his partner is a woman but also feline shifter. Ivy Halliwell has not had much luck with her partners in the past and figures her latest is going to be as judgmental of her as the rest were but Landon surprises her by accepting who she is pretty quick but not without lots of teasing which were some of the funniest moments in the book.
We are given enough of a back story and history of both Landon and his team and Ivy and the shifters to understand what’s going on without all the issues that sometime comes with a first book that tends to bes bogged down with world building and the introduction of a large cast of characters. At no point did I feel overwhelmed from information overload.
The story arc that looks to probably run throughout the series was very intriguing and had just enough suspense that kept you turning the pages along with the smoking chemistry that was between Landon and Ivy. Another nice change was there was no ego’s involved between the main characters – he accepted that she was his equal and better in areas than he was due to her abilities. For those wondering about the paranormal aspect, the shifters dont fully shift into an animal - they just have the characterics and strenghth that come from that animal. This was a great start to what looks to be a fabulous series.
We are given enough of a back story and history of both Landon and his team and Ivy and the shifters to understand what’s going on without all the issues that sometime comes with a first book that tends to bes bogged down with world building and the introduction of a large cast of characters. At no point did I feel overwhelmed from information overload.
The story arc that looks to probably run throughout the series was very intriguing and had just enough suspense that kept you turning the pages along with the smoking chemistry that was between Landon and Ivy. Another nice change was there was no ego’s involved between the main characters – he accepted that she was his equal and better in areas than he was due to her abilities. For those wondering about the paranormal aspect, the shifters dont fully shift into an animal - they just have the characterics and strenghth that come from that animal. This was a great start to what looks to be a fabulous series.
May 1, 2014
A spec-ops shifter heroine newly paired with a Special Forces hero for a hidden government agency who must learn to work together, trust each other and keep it strictly business just sounded like my kind of fun so I had to read it. This series opener really delivered too. Scenes just sparkled when these two main characters were present and I loved the action elements as much as the romance in this military-style paranormal.
The story opens with Ivy Halliwell losing her latest partner on a covert mission because he couldn't accept what she was and wouldn't work with her as a team. The scene changes to introduce Special Forces Captain Landon Donovan and his Special Forces team ready to take out one of the big baddies of terrorism. Without explanation he is pulled off his team and shipped out to DC to be transferred to a secret agency. He is given a new partner and a new job. The only thing he is told is that he is the back-up and it's his job to take out his partner if the partner falls into the hands of the enemy. Landon isn't wired that way and he really isn't wired for what they ask him to do next which is to attack and take-down the woman he is introduced to as his partner.
Ivy is disappointed to discover that she has been assigned yet another he-man soldier who will be just like the rest and won't treat her skills with respect because she's a woman and be disgusted that she's a shifter. Her assumptions are rocked from the moment they engage in training when Landon fights well, but not to overpower her with strength, he respects her as his partner, accepts her shifter gifts and her fighting skills, he won't listen to gossip about her, and he seems to have her back. It is on their first mission that he proves that she really can trust him and that she has finally found her perfect partner.
Things may be coming together for Landon and Ivy as a team, but a bureaucrat assistant director who is working to get the shifter program scrapped, another angry shifter who hates human partners particularly Ivy's and difficulty fighting their mutual attraction keep life interesting. Their time together finally leads them into each other's arms and they figure out pretty quick that this is definitely something more. Before they can explore that, they get another assignment that involves the investigation of several world-wide disappearances of scientists that lead to a shocking discovery. This is the big challenge to see just how well they work as a team and getting each other out alive.
I really had a good time reading this book. The plot and pace, the tone, the character and romance development were all well written. There was a bit of everything in this one including a bit of suspense with a few surprise twists. The main story line wrapped up while the overarching series plot left things in a good place with enough secondary character lines and a continuing possibility of threat to leave me eager to surge ahead with the series.
As to Ivy and Landon, this couple was superb. I can't tell you how well this author nailed the balance between conflict and resolve in their relationship. They work well together as a covert team and I loved that there were good sized scenes of them training and running missions and not just falling into bed together all the time. Not that there wasn't any of that too- eventually. They were a passionate couple when they cut loose.
Ivy was defensive in the beginning, but rightly so after the shenanigans her last two partners pulled and that they alienated the other humans at the agency against her. She is skilled, but she is not arrogant. She even holds back on jumping Landon, but doesn't play hard to get and act coy. I loved that she owned to her mistakes and that she was emotionally there for Landon when he needed her. Awesome heroine!
Landon puts many heroes to shame. He is a skilled soldier and confident leader, but he's never a bully or arrogant jerk. This guy gets ripped away from his team and dropped into the middle of something and he just rolls with it. Nobody is easy on him including Ivy at first, but he doesn't whine or lose it, he just weathers through it all just as one expects from a highly trained soldier used to tough spots to be in. I loved how he totally respected Ivy as a partner and even let her take point and use her skills. He is understanding and protective. He's just perfect even if he sees himself as flawed. Like Ivy, he opens himself up to their growing relationship without any hang-ups.
In the end, I was happy to start this new series and look forward to what is to come. It was a wonderful blend of Paranormal Romance, Military, and Romantic Suspense elements. Those who love a romance between two covert partners and a challenging mission that keeps one guessing should try this book on.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
The story opens with Ivy Halliwell losing her latest partner on a covert mission because he couldn't accept what she was and wouldn't work with her as a team. The scene changes to introduce Special Forces Captain Landon Donovan and his Special Forces team ready to take out one of the big baddies of terrorism. Without explanation he is pulled off his team and shipped out to DC to be transferred to a secret agency. He is given a new partner and a new job. The only thing he is told is that he is the back-up and it's his job to take out his partner if the partner falls into the hands of the enemy. Landon isn't wired that way and he really isn't wired for what they ask him to do next which is to attack and take-down the woman he is introduced to as his partner.
Ivy is disappointed to discover that she has been assigned yet another he-man soldier who will be just like the rest and won't treat her skills with respect because she's a woman and be disgusted that she's a shifter. Her assumptions are rocked from the moment they engage in training when Landon fights well, but not to overpower her with strength, he respects her as his partner, accepts her shifter gifts and her fighting skills, he won't listen to gossip about her, and he seems to have her back. It is on their first mission that he proves that she really can trust him and that she has finally found her perfect partner.
Things may be coming together for Landon and Ivy as a team, but a bureaucrat assistant director who is working to get the shifter program scrapped, another angry shifter who hates human partners particularly Ivy's and difficulty fighting their mutual attraction keep life interesting. Their time together finally leads them into each other's arms and they figure out pretty quick that this is definitely something more. Before they can explore that, they get another assignment that involves the investigation of several world-wide disappearances of scientists that lead to a shocking discovery. This is the big challenge to see just how well they work as a team and getting each other out alive.
I really had a good time reading this book. The plot and pace, the tone, the character and romance development were all well written. There was a bit of everything in this one including a bit of suspense with a few surprise twists. The main story line wrapped up while the overarching series plot left things in a good place with enough secondary character lines and a continuing possibility of threat to leave me eager to surge ahead with the series.
As to Ivy and Landon, this couple was superb. I can't tell you how well this author nailed the balance between conflict and resolve in their relationship. They work well together as a covert team and I loved that there were good sized scenes of them training and running missions and not just falling into bed together all the time. Not that there wasn't any of that too- eventually. They were a passionate couple when they cut loose.
Ivy was defensive in the beginning, but rightly so after the shenanigans her last two partners pulled and that they alienated the other humans at the agency against her. She is skilled, but she is not arrogant. She even holds back on jumping Landon, but doesn't play hard to get and act coy. I loved that she owned to her mistakes and that she was emotionally there for Landon when he needed her. Awesome heroine!
Landon puts many heroes to shame. He is a skilled soldier and confident leader, but he's never a bully or arrogant jerk. This guy gets ripped away from his team and dropped into the middle of something and he just rolls with it. Nobody is easy on him including Ivy at first, but he doesn't whine or lose it, he just weathers through it all just as one expects from a highly trained soldier used to tough spots to be in. I loved how he totally respected Ivy as a partner and even let her take point and use her skills. He is understanding and protective. He's just perfect even if he sees himself as flawed. Like Ivy, he opens himself up to their growing relationship without any hang-ups.
In the end, I was happy to start this new series and look forward to what is to come. It was a wonderful blend of Paranormal Romance, Military, and Romantic Suspense elements. Those who love a romance between two covert partners and a challenging mission that keeps one guessing should try this book on.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 6, 2014
Review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2014/05/05/...
When I first read the blurb of this book, I was hooked. While I love my wolf shifters, there aren’t enough cats in the PNR world, so I was stoked to see something new. I loved the spin Tyler put on this book, and am anxiously waiting for more!
When Landon is pulled in the middle of a mission and sent to DC, he isn’t happy about his new assignment. Getting to work with Ivy was nice, but he wasn’t sure he was ready to be a glorified babysitter. But once Landon got to see some of Ivy’s cat skills in person, his interest in his new top-secret job spiked, and not just because of his super sexy partner.
Ivy loves her work, but her luck in partners has been piss-poor. She is hesitant with Landon, but as they spend more and more time together, Ivy realizes that Landon is not only a great guy, but an incredible partner. Their first couple of missions together will test them more than either expected. Not just professionally, but personally as well.
There was so much to love in this book. First was the twist on the standard shapeshifter that Tyler created in her world. Ivy can’t shift into a cat, instead, her DNA shares some of the same attributes of the big cat and as such she has cat-like abilities. Think night vision, enhanced hearing and smell, the ability to heal faster, claws, and the agility to land on her feet. She isn’t a human and a cat sharing the same body, instead she benefits from the boost her cat DNA gives her. I loved that it was such a fun and neat twist, and I loved every second of it!
The other aspect I really enjoyed was the way Tyler did such a great job combining a paranormal romance with a romantic suspense. Much of this book felt like a really great RS book, complete with training scenarios, insane missions, and camaraderie between the characters. I loved the way Ivy and Landon had to not only find a way to work together given Landon’s dislike in his new job and Ivy’s lack of faith in her partners, but they also had to find a way to fit in within the overall organization they work for. The animosity between the humans and elite shifters was off the charts, and finding the perfect balance with each other and the greater team at large were such fun dynamics to read about.
Tyler did a great job introducing secondary characters that I can’t wait to find out more about. I adored all of Landon’s teammates from his special forces unit, and I really hope that they will have the chance to pop up again in future books. I also loved the greater team of shifters that Landon and Ivy worked with. I can’t wait to find out what happens with each and every person, and I hope that Tyler has success with this series so that I can watch them all get their happily ever afters!
There wasn’t much not to love in this book. For me, the beginning was a bit slow, and the end was a tad far-fetched, but I loved it either way. It wasn’t anything that pulled me out of the story, or caused me to slug through with the reading.
All in all, I thought Tyler has an amazing first book in the X-Ops series. I loved Ivy and Landon, and thought their sexual chemistry was so intense and off the charts. The secondary character, the romance, and the suspense were all top-notch! I will be anxious to get my hands on the next book in the series!
I give Her Perfect Mate an A-
When I first read the blurb of this book, I was hooked. While I love my wolf shifters, there aren’t enough cats in the PNR world, so I was stoked to see something new. I loved the spin Tyler put on this book, and am anxiously waiting for more!
When Landon is pulled in the middle of a mission and sent to DC, he isn’t happy about his new assignment. Getting to work with Ivy was nice, but he wasn’t sure he was ready to be a glorified babysitter. But once Landon got to see some of Ivy’s cat skills in person, his interest in his new top-secret job spiked, and not just because of his super sexy partner.
Ivy loves her work, but her luck in partners has been piss-poor. She is hesitant with Landon, but as they spend more and more time together, Ivy realizes that Landon is not only a great guy, but an incredible partner. Their first couple of missions together will test them more than either expected. Not just professionally, but personally as well.
There was so much to love in this book. First was the twist on the standard shapeshifter that Tyler created in her world. Ivy can’t shift into a cat, instead, her DNA shares some of the same attributes of the big cat and as such she has cat-like abilities. Think night vision, enhanced hearing and smell, the ability to heal faster, claws, and the agility to land on her feet. She isn’t a human and a cat sharing the same body, instead she benefits from the boost her cat DNA gives her. I loved that it was such a fun and neat twist, and I loved every second of it!
The other aspect I really enjoyed was the way Tyler did such a great job combining a paranormal romance with a romantic suspense. Much of this book felt like a really great RS book, complete with training scenarios, insane missions, and camaraderie between the characters. I loved the way Ivy and Landon had to not only find a way to work together given Landon’s dislike in his new job and Ivy’s lack of faith in her partners, but they also had to find a way to fit in within the overall organization they work for. The animosity between the humans and elite shifters was off the charts, and finding the perfect balance with each other and the greater team at large were such fun dynamics to read about.
Tyler did a great job introducing secondary characters that I can’t wait to find out more about. I adored all of Landon’s teammates from his special forces unit, and I really hope that they will have the chance to pop up again in future books. I also loved the greater team of shifters that Landon and Ivy worked with. I can’t wait to find out what happens with each and every person, and I hope that Tyler has success with this series so that I can watch them all get their happily ever afters!
There wasn’t much not to love in this book. For me, the beginning was a bit slow, and the end was a tad far-fetched, but I loved it either way. It wasn’t anything that pulled me out of the story, or caused me to slug through with the reading.
All in all, I thought Tyler has an amazing first book in the X-Ops series. I loved Ivy and Landon, and thought their sexual chemistry was so intense and off the charts. The secondary character, the romance, and the suspense were all top-notch! I will be anxious to get my hands on the next book in the series!
I give Her Perfect Mate an A-
March 4, 2025
Another succinct review by Kay:
I didn't enjoy it enough for me to continue with the series, but I don't regret reading it either.
The end.
I didn't enjoy it enough for me to continue with the series, but I don't regret reading it either.
The end.
July 23, 2019
3.5 stars - Paranormal/Romantic Suspense
Nice start to the series and there are several characters that I'm looking forward to reading about.
Nice start to the series and there are several characters that I'm looking forward to reading about.
November 24, 2025
Not your average shifter story, Her Perfect Mate gives us humans with animal characteristics and abilities but still very much human. I was a really enjoyable change of pace from the complete human to animal shifting tale (no pun intended LOL).
Ivy Halliwell is a covert operative with feline DNA. When she is sent another military partner, she wants to cringe...saying all her partnerships haven't ended well might be an understatement. But from the moment Ivy meets Landon Donovan, the sexual tension skyrockets.
Landon was unhappy with his reassignment, but once there, he seemed to be handling the peculiarities of the special agents extremely well. Ivy doesn't trust Landon's acceptance and thinks the shoe is about to drop, and things will change just like all her other partners.
When Ivy and Landon uncover a serious threat to hybrid operators, they must trust each other to survive.
I really enjoyed Her Perfect Mate. The sexual attraction is explosive but still believable. Tyler writes this story as if you've already been a part of these characters' lives, giving you bits and pieces of the main characters as well as background characters' histories...pulling you deeper into this world she has created. Her Perfect Mate was a wonderful introduction to the X-Ops world, and I look forward to future installments in this series.
I received this ARC copy of Her Perfect Mate from SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication on May 6, 2014.
Ivy Halliwell is a covert operative with feline DNA. When she is sent another military partner, she wants to cringe...saying all her partnerships haven't ended well might be an understatement. But from the moment Ivy meets Landon Donovan, the sexual tension skyrockets.
Landon was unhappy with his reassignment, but once there, he seemed to be handling the peculiarities of the special agents extremely well. Ivy doesn't trust Landon's acceptance and thinks the shoe is about to drop, and things will change just like all her other partners.
When Ivy and Landon uncover a serious threat to hybrid operators, they must trust each other to survive.
I really enjoyed Her Perfect Mate. The sexual attraction is explosive but still believable. Tyler writes this story as if you've already been a part of these characters' lives, giving you bits and pieces of the main characters as well as background characters' histories...pulling you deeper into this world she has created. Her Perfect Mate was a wonderful introduction to the X-Ops world, and I look forward to future installments in this series.
I received this ARC copy of Her Perfect Mate from SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication on May 6, 2014.
July 20, 2016
Her Perfect Mate is the first book in the X-Ops series by Paige Tyler. This story focuses on Ivy and Landon. They have been assigned as partners in the DOC (Department of Covert Operations) and must learn to work together, because in their job it’s a matter of life or death. Ivy is a shifter. She has enhanced senses, strength and reflexes, along with the ability to transform her eyes and spout claws and fangs. Ivy makes a great heroine. She is intelligent, likeable and strong. Landon is former special ops, newly assigned to the DOC. He is loyal, tough, smart and determined.
Ivy is used to having partners that she can’t trust but she soon realizes that Landon appreciates her for who she is, special abilities included. He’s an ideal match for her and they have an instant and intense attraction to one another. It was a joy to see these two characters come together and follow along as they adjust to being partners and begin to undertake dangers assignments.
I really enjoyed Her Perfect Mate. It caught my attention and once I began the outside world ceased to exist. It’s exciting and fast paced. There is action, danger, sex and romance. My only complaint is that the romance developed at a pace that felt a little fast. All in all though, I found Her Perfect Mate to be a very entertaining and well written story. I look forward to the next book in the series.
Her Perfect Mate is recommended to fans of paranormal romance and romantic suspense.
Ivy is used to having partners that she can’t trust but she soon realizes that Landon appreciates her for who she is, special abilities included. He’s an ideal match for her and they have an instant and intense attraction to one another. It was a joy to see these two characters come together and follow along as they adjust to being partners and begin to undertake dangers assignments.
I really enjoyed Her Perfect Mate. It caught my attention and once I began the outside world ceased to exist. It’s exciting and fast paced. There is action, danger, sex and romance. My only complaint is that the romance developed at a pace that felt a little fast. All in all though, I found Her Perfect Mate to be a very entertaining and well written story. I look forward to the next book in the series.
Her Perfect Mate is recommended to fans of paranormal romance and romantic suspense.
June 11, 2014
I thought I had read something by this author before, but looking back, I see nothing!?! After reading all of the books I have read, it still amazes me that sometimes I feel like I have been living under a bookless rock. But up until this point, I have read 900 or so books!?! Point being that there are so many authors out there that are great writers & it takes an accident for me to discover them!
This is one of those accidental reads where you think you're reading one author & you're reading another. Thank God for the mix up! Now, I can honestly say Paige Tyler is pretty good! Although, Christine Feehan absolutely ruined all "Cat" shifter like stories for me with all her rubbing like a cat does & purring...cheesy... PT was great!!
Landon Donavan is assigned to a covert operation with Ivy, a special covert operative with feline DNA, partly to team up on a mission & to also agree to kill her to keep her out of enemy hands. He scoffs, because NO WAY will he kill her! After having immediate attraction during the test fight, where he needs to bring her down, she leaves him scratching head at the end of that scene.
It gets pretty good & he works with her instead of bossing & down playing her abilities... When her DNA is stolen, it actually opens up a lot for this series. It does spend a whole lot more on the training & mission to really develop a relationship, but it was still good. I will definitely read more!
This is one of those accidental reads where you think you're reading one author & you're reading another. Thank God for the mix up! Now, I can honestly say Paige Tyler is pretty good! Although, Christine Feehan absolutely ruined all "Cat" shifter like stories for me with all her rubbing like a cat does & purring...cheesy... PT was great!!
Landon Donavan is assigned to a covert operation with Ivy, a special covert operative with feline DNA, partly to team up on a mission & to also agree to kill her to keep her out of enemy hands. He scoffs, because NO WAY will he kill her! After having immediate attraction during the test fight, where he needs to bring her down, she leaves him scratching head at the end of that scene.
It gets pretty good & he works with her instead of bossing & down playing her abilities... When her DNA is stolen, it actually opens up a lot for this series. It does spend a whole lot more on the training & mission to really develop a relationship, but it was still good. I will definitely read more!
August 4, 2014
The premise, the rocking front cover and the first couple of chapters sucked me straight into this story - then it all became a fustercluck. The female lead was incredibly inconsistent - she's got all these mad skills but she lets the men in her life/work walk all over her, where she should be kick ass and confident instead she's a mess and a little bit petulant.
The whole zoning out thing/sinking into her animal nature makes no sense and instead just makes her look/act weak - most animals are startled and hyper aware of approaching danger - not Ivy. She cries instead of getting pissed off and righteous. And the whole she's in heat for Landon thing - to explain away her actions rather than her owning her feelings - just cheapened the whole romance aspect of this story.
Kept losing interest/focus in the story because of all the inconsistencies but persevered unhappily right through to the end.
The whole zoning out thing/sinking into her animal nature makes no sense and instead just makes her look/act weak - most animals are startled and hyper aware of approaching danger - not Ivy. She cries instead of getting pissed off and righteous. And the whole she's in heat for Landon thing - to explain away her actions rather than her owning her feelings - just cheapened the whole romance aspect of this story.
Kept losing interest/focus in the story because of all the inconsistencies but persevered unhappily right through to the end.
May 24, 2014
I loved the set up of this book and the world that it is set in. There are so many possibilities where the series could go, that I can't wait for more books.
I liked Ivy, even with the huge chip on her shoulder at the start of the book. She had some very valid reasons for them and for not trusting Landon. I loved that Landon rolled with the punches with all the "special" info that he learned about Ivy and DMO. It was due to that that Ivy was able to trust Landon and that was able to grow to more.
Landon's teammates were great! They seemed to have the same attitude as Landon when they were exposed to what was common knowledge to Landon. I would love to see them all come aboard DMO and show the ones with attitude to suck it!
Due to all the action at the end, it will be interesting what happens next, both with Ivy and Landon and with the DMO itself.
I liked Ivy, even with the huge chip on her shoulder at the start of the book. She had some very valid reasons for them and for not trusting Landon. I loved that Landon rolled with the punches with all the "special" info that he learned about Ivy and DMO. It was due to that that Ivy was able to trust Landon and that was able to grow to more.
Landon's teammates were great! They seemed to have the same attitude as Landon when they were exposed to what was common knowledge to Landon. I would love to see them all come aboard DMO and show the ones with attitude to suck it!
Due to all the action at the end, it will be interesting what happens next, both with Ivy and Landon and with the DMO itself.
May 17, 2015
Book Review-Her Prefect Mate. Summary
Landon Donovan, is a captain in the special forces, he has gone on multiple dangerous missions and covert trips, but in the middle of his mission, he is pulled, and sent to Washington, and forced to leave his team…men he considers family. But he is told that he will be part of a two man team, and his job will be to watch out for his partner, a partner that has certain talents that goes above anything Landon has ever seen. When Landon meets his partner, Ivy, he wonders how he could take her of all people on dangerous missions, she doesn’t look like she could hurt a fly. But when they spar for the first time, he realizes how dangerous she really is, she has moves he has never seen, but Landon isn’t special ops for nothing, and holds his own, and soon sparks fly just as the danger to them does, and soon they are embroiled in a battle they may not survive…
The Hero
Landon, is a tough military officer, he has dedicated his life to doing the right thing, and protecting his men. He is capable, loyal, and strong in a fight. From hand to hand combat to weapons…he loves it all. He has always wanted to serve in the special ops…he loves his guns and the explosives, and enjoys a good fight. Landon is a leader, confident and proud of what he has accomplished. But there is one aspect in his life he has never succeeded at…relationships. Being in a covert unit keeps him from developing anything strong, but then he meets Ivy, and despite the fact their relationship is forbidden…he can’t resist or let her go. I loved Landon as the hero…he is one sexy male, and he impressed me from the beginning. I loved the way he handles himself…and deals with dangerous situations.
The Heroine
Ivy, is a feline shifter, and works in a military unit, but her luck isn’t very high. Her last two partners were duds, and she wants a partner that will respect her and let her do what she is best at. Ivy, has kept the truth about what she does from her family, she is one of those rare humans that got that lucky active gene that has brought her out inner cat. Her abilities are those of the instincts of a feline, she can’t shift completely, but she definitely hisses and growls, and her claws come out when she needs them to. I love the way that Ivy is portrayed in the story, Ivy was a admirable heroine. I loved how she handles pressure, and takes everything in stride, she has this clear perspective on certain situations that is very enlightening.
Plot and Story Line
Her Perfect Mate is a story to die for…it has everything I look for in a paranormal romance and a bit more. This is much more than just a paranormal themed story…it has many romantic suspense elements in it too…which just makes it even better. I recently discovered this author this year, and I just adored her writing style. Its engaging and heartwarming, and keeps you thrilled and excited all the meanwhile your reading. In Her Perfect Mate we see a story that brings together two people, these two individuals, are fighters, talented and smart, capable and confident and have a instant spark. They are forbidden to ever have a relationship, but from the first moment they kiss, their priorities change, and we Ivy and Landon form a bond, that is powerful and the more time they spend together the stronger the bond becomes. They fight good together, and they are well matched as a team, we see how they both have vulnerabilities, but their strengths balance each other out. I can hardly wait to read the second book…oh good ole Clayne….excited to see what happens in his book and in future books!!
The Cover
What a bold cover…I love the stance of the two here, and the hero…mmm he certainly is yummy to look at. I love the gold background and gives off that edgy sense that is portrayed in the story.
Overall View
Her Perfect Mate is a thrilling tale of a military romance, a dangerous enemy, an explosive passion, and a story that is exciting and gripping!! UTTERLY MESMERIZING!!
Landon Donovan, is a captain in the special forces, he has gone on multiple dangerous missions and covert trips, but in the middle of his mission, he is pulled, and sent to Washington, and forced to leave his team…men he considers family. But he is told that he will be part of a two man team, and his job will be to watch out for his partner, a partner that has certain talents that goes above anything Landon has ever seen. When Landon meets his partner, Ivy, he wonders how he could take her of all people on dangerous missions, she doesn’t look like she could hurt a fly. But when they spar for the first time, he realizes how dangerous she really is, she has moves he has never seen, but Landon isn’t special ops for nothing, and holds his own, and soon sparks fly just as the danger to them does, and soon they are embroiled in a battle they may not survive…
The Hero
Landon, is a tough military officer, he has dedicated his life to doing the right thing, and protecting his men. He is capable, loyal, and strong in a fight. From hand to hand combat to weapons…he loves it all. He has always wanted to serve in the special ops…he loves his guns and the explosives, and enjoys a good fight. Landon is a leader, confident and proud of what he has accomplished. But there is one aspect in his life he has never succeeded at…relationships. Being in a covert unit keeps him from developing anything strong, but then he meets Ivy, and despite the fact their relationship is forbidden…he can’t resist or let her go. I loved Landon as the hero…he is one sexy male, and he impressed me from the beginning. I loved the way he handles himself…and deals with dangerous situations.
The Heroine
Ivy, is a feline shifter, and works in a military unit, but her luck isn’t very high. Her last two partners were duds, and she wants a partner that will respect her and let her do what she is best at. Ivy, has kept the truth about what she does from her family, she is one of those rare humans that got that lucky active gene that has brought her out inner cat. Her abilities are those of the instincts of a feline, she can’t shift completely, but she definitely hisses and growls, and her claws come out when she needs them to. I love the way that Ivy is portrayed in the story, Ivy was a admirable heroine. I loved how she handles pressure, and takes everything in stride, she has this clear perspective on certain situations that is very enlightening.
Plot and Story Line
Her Perfect Mate is a story to die for…it has everything I look for in a paranormal romance and a bit more. This is much more than just a paranormal themed story…it has many romantic suspense elements in it too…which just makes it even better. I recently discovered this author this year, and I just adored her writing style. Its engaging and heartwarming, and keeps you thrilled and excited all the meanwhile your reading. In Her Perfect Mate we see a story that brings together two people, these two individuals, are fighters, talented and smart, capable and confident and have a instant spark. They are forbidden to ever have a relationship, but from the first moment they kiss, their priorities change, and we Ivy and Landon form a bond, that is powerful and the more time they spend together the stronger the bond becomes. They fight good together, and they are well matched as a team, we see how they both have vulnerabilities, but their strengths balance each other out. I can hardly wait to read the second book…oh good ole Clayne….excited to see what happens in his book and in future books!!
The Cover
What a bold cover…I love the stance of the two here, and the hero…mmm he certainly is yummy to look at. I love the gold background and gives off that edgy sense that is portrayed in the story.
Overall View
Her Perfect Mate is a thrilling tale of a military romance, a dangerous enemy, an explosive passion, and a story that is exciting and gripping!! UTTERLY MESMERIZING!!
May 9, 2014
This story was compelling and gripping from page one. It started off so action packed I was afraid the author would have no where else to go and boy was I wrong. Ivy was a kick ass heroine who looked good while doing it and Landon was a hero that every woman dreams about. This author was new to me and I am so glad that I got a chance to read this explosive book and can't sit to see what next in this spectacular line-up of secondary characters. Thank you Paige you knocked it out of the park with this book.
April 27, 2015
3.5 Stars
I Loved Paige Tyler's first book in her SWAT series and I can't wait for book 2. In the meantime, I decided I'd take a look at the other books and X-Ops sounded pretty interesting.
I did like it, I didn't love it. I found that at times the story was a little rushed and I kind of felt frustrated with some of the angles. However, Paige's writing has obviously progressed from this book because as I said, the SWAT series is brilliant.
I will definitely take up the next book in this series soon though, I think it has promise and I do love the idea behind the storylines.
I Loved Paige Tyler's first book in her SWAT series and I can't wait for book 2. In the meantime, I decided I'd take a look at the other books and X-Ops sounded pretty interesting.
I did like it, I didn't love it. I found that at times the story was a little rushed and I kind of felt frustrated with some of the angles. However, Paige's writing has obviously progressed from this book because as I said, the SWAT series is brilliant.
I will definitely take up the next book in this series soon though, I think it has promise and I do love the idea behind the storylines.
December 29, 2015
Loved it. The action was on point. The personalities were flawed. The loving was hot. Definitely one to pick up. : )
December 7, 2019
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I've always wanted to read this author so when they started releasing these on audio I requested it for review. The X-Ops series is what I classify as PNR where there is a new couple in each book.
The shifters do not change completely. Their eyes change color and they may grow claws. They always have more strength, better hearing, healing and sense of smell than humans. They are born into human families and have just slight genetic differences. Ivy had a great grandmother who was a shifter but her parents are not shifters.
Ivy works for a government covert group which does black ops- the DCO. She worked previously at the FBI but wanted more action than desk work. Her previous partners wouldn't work with her or trust her special skills. But now she has a partner secure enough in his own skills to work with her.
Landon came from covert special forces team. He went into the military to escape a horrible family situation and to hopefully help finance his education. He was leader of his team, and they are all close. Initially, he wasn't thrilled with his new assignment with the DCO but quickly makes a good partnership with Ivy.
I loved their missions and the action. Gathering information and doing surveillance, as well as protection work and taking out bad guys was all fun. The mystery of figuring out what the main bad guy was doing and where he was taking the kidnapped scientists was a good story.
The romance in Her Perfect Mate was a bit less appealing. It wasn't insta-love, more like insta-lust, but then with the life or death style of their work, it quickly became a clear connection. I felt it happened a bit too quickly but this type of suspense situation tends to produce high emotions. There was also a bit of a love triangle with another guy interested in Ivy. Audible classifies it as erotica and there were definitely some smoking sexy times.
Both Ivy and Landon were good-hearted people with excellent skills. They made a great team, supporting each other so each could be their best. I'm excited to read the next in the series.
Narration:
This was my first experience with Holly Adams. I really enjoyed her approach to male and female voices. The chapters alternated between Ivy and Landon's point of views which I also appreciate. The voices for the non-dialogue parts in the chapter were also more male or female depending on whose chapter it was. That makes sense since it is often their stream of thoughts. I can't recall hearing others do it, though. I really liked it. I listened at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I've always wanted to read this author so when they started releasing these on audio I requested it for review. The X-Ops series is what I classify as PNR where there is a new couple in each book.
The shifters do not change completely. Their eyes change color and they may grow claws. They always have more strength, better hearing, healing and sense of smell than humans. They are born into human families and have just slight genetic differences. Ivy had a great grandmother who was a shifter but her parents are not shifters.
Ivy works for a government covert group which does black ops- the DCO. She worked previously at the FBI but wanted more action than desk work. Her previous partners wouldn't work with her or trust her special skills. But now she has a partner secure enough in his own skills to work with her.
Landon came from covert special forces team. He went into the military to escape a horrible family situation and to hopefully help finance his education. He was leader of his team, and they are all close. Initially, he wasn't thrilled with his new assignment with the DCO but quickly makes a good partnership with Ivy.
I loved their missions and the action. Gathering information and doing surveillance, as well as protection work and taking out bad guys was all fun. The mystery of figuring out what the main bad guy was doing and where he was taking the kidnapped scientists was a good story.
The romance in Her Perfect Mate was a bit less appealing. It wasn't insta-love, more like insta-lust, but then with the life or death style of their work, it quickly became a clear connection. I felt it happened a bit too quickly but this type of suspense situation tends to produce high emotions. There was also a bit of a love triangle with another guy interested in Ivy. Audible classifies it as erotica and there were definitely some smoking sexy times.
Both Ivy and Landon were good-hearted people with excellent skills. They made a great team, supporting each other so each could be their best. I'm excited to read the next in the series.
Narration:
This was my first experience with Holly Adams. I really enjoyed her approach to male and female voices. The chapters alternated between Ivy and Landon's point of views which I also appreciate. The voices for the non-dialogue parts in the chapter were also more male or female depending on whose chapter it was. That makes sense since it is often their stream of thoughts. I can't recall hearing others do it, though. I really liked it. I listened at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
April 20, 2014
Ah... Shifters in literature... Always a girl's joy to read about those. They're those hot, sexy, OTT Alpha guys who can make you cream your panties at the mere mention of their name. Ho, boy...
Except...
This story's main shifter character is not the guy. Nope. Nuh-huh.
Ivy Halliwell has lost two partners already - both from their own stupidity and their prejudice against her gender and her nature. Because Ivy is not just any DCO operative. She's an EVA, a feline shifter, and an underestimated one at that. But her new partner is bound to change things - not only out in the field, but also in her personal life. Landon Donovan is every bit the man she could very well fall for. Strong, professional, hot and sweet - and, the most important of it all, he's understanding and accepting. Plus, he seems like he wants her just as much as she wants him. Yet, the DCO rules are clear - no dating between the agents. How can they be together the way they want to when there are people in high positions that want the EVA program to get shot down - waiting for the right opportunity to get Landon and Ivy to fail? And even if they make it somehow, can they still survive the great danger that has risen and threatens the safety of both humans and shifters alike?
Ivy was not the usual main heroine. And I mean that in every sense. She was not whiny and she never acted like a spoiled child. And while we have seen many badass heroines so far, this one was different. She knew how to take care of herself - sometimes she was better at it than Landon - yet she was sweet when you came to know her personally. Playful, even. And very feminine and cute in her self-conscious ways that were the awful result of the poor way people around her treated her with.
Which is why Landon was perfect for her. An Alpha male that was comfortable in his masculinity to give the leading position to Ivy in missions, because he knew of and trusted in her abilities as a shifter that put her in a higher level from him - and he was man enough to not care, because he knew that either way, at the end of the day, he was the one wearing the pants in their relationship. This of course didn't make him a wuss - on the contrary, I think he became even hotter when he did all those things.
As a couple, the two partners were freaking amazing! Screw-me-raw hot and mind-numbingly... right. And finally, we get to see the woman having to put up against the mating urges and taking cold showers because her lover smells like the most delicious treat - we knew it was real, we knew it could happen, and we finally get to witness it!
I can't wait for Clayne's story - well, at least, let's hope the wolf the 2nd book's title refers to is him. I want him to end up with Kendra so much, I nearly bit off my tongue begging the page to give me a small clue - just one! - as to how he felt towards her, but zero. None! And Declan, too! Oh, and I want to see a book for Angelo and Diaz and the rest of Landon's previous team - but that's just me and my fangirling, so I don't think we'll see much of that...
***I was given an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinion stated in this review is solely mine, and no compensation was given or taken to alter it.***
Read this and other reviews at: http://cupcakesandpopcorn.wordpress.com/
Except...
This story's main shifter character is not the guy. Nope. Nuh-huh.
Ivy Halliwell has lost two partners already - both from their own stupidity and their prejudice against her gender and her nature. Because Ivy is not just any DCO operative. She's an EVA, a feline shifter, and an underestimated one at that. But her new partner is bound to change things - not only out in the field, but also in her personal life. Landon Donovan is every bit the man she could very well fall for. Strong, professional, hot and sweet - and, the most important of it all, he's understanding and accepting. Plus, he seems like he wants her just as much as she wants him. Yet, the DCO rules are clear - no dating between the agents. How can they be together the way they want to when there are people in high positions that want the EVA program to get shot down - waiting for the right opportunity to get Landon and Ivy to fail? And even if they make it somehow, can they still survive the great danger that has risen and threatens the safety of both humans and shifters alike?
Ivy was not the usual main heroine. And I mean that in every sense. She was not whiny and she never acted like a spoiled child. And while we have seen many badass heroines so far, this one was different. She knew how to take care of herself - sometimes she was better at it than Landon - yet she was sweet when you came to know her personally. Playful, even. And very feminine and cute in her self-conscious ways that were the awful result of the poor way people around her treated her with.
Which is why Landon was perfect for her. An Alpha male that was comfortable in his masculinity to give the leading position to Ivy in missions, because he knew of and trusted in her abilities as a shifter that put her in a higher level from him - and he was man enough to not care, because he knew that either way, at the end of the day, he was the one wearing the pants in their relationship. This of course didn't make him a wuss - on the contrary, I think he became even hotter when he did all those things.
As a couple, the two partners were freaking amazing! Screw-me-raw hot and mind-numbingly... right. And finally, we get to see the woman having to put up against the mating urges and taking cold showers because her lover smells like the most delicious treat - we knew it was real, we knew it could happen, and we finally get to witness it!
I can't wait for Clayne's story - well, at least, let's hope the wolf the 2nd book's title refers to is him. I want him to end up with Kendra so much, I nearly bit off my tongue begging the page to give me a small clue - just one! - as to how he felt towards her, but zero. None! And Declan, too! Oh, and I want to see a book for Angelo and Diaz and the rest of Landon's previous team - but that's just me and my fangirling, so I don't think we'll see much of that...
***I was given an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinion stated in this review is solely mine, and no compensation was given or taken to alter it.***
Read this and other reviews at: http://cupcakesandpopcorn.wordpress.com/
May 29, 2014
Special Forces Captain Landon Donovan is pulled from his mission in Afghanistan just as he and his team are about to take out their designated target. Orders are to go to Washington DC for reassignment ASAP without delay. Upon arriving in D.C. he's brought to the offices of the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) which, for a special forces soldier, is the proverbial kiss of death assignment.
Ivy Halliwell has special abilities that make her the perfect covert operative for the super secret DCO (Department of Covert Operations). The problem is the agency hasn't found a partner who has the skills and staying power to survive which has Ivy skeptical about her new partner Landon Donovan. Sure he has the right credentials and seems to handle himself well in the training exercises but will he be able to handle the pressure out in the field when Ivy reveals what her special skills actually are?
Best to keep things professional and above board though knowing he's the whole package of brains and brawn does have her purring at the most inopportune moments. Not a good thing when their newest mission is more dangerous than anyone in the DCO had thought.
OK. I'm a sucker for a 'man in uniform' themed read. The work out regimen and dangerous alpha personality needed to be a special forces soldier are prime eye candy wet dream fantasy ecstasy. What American female wouldn't do their duty to pay homage to these gladiators who keep our country safe. :D
That being said this was a high octane action-suspense read that kept me on the edge of my seat for most of the story. From the very beginning when Landon is pulled out of his mission in Afghanistan I got vested in his character. By the time he and Ivy meet I was sold that a good time would be had for all. For the most part the story's main plot is the world building associated with a secretive department of covert operations whose agents have paranormal skills and continues as the reader tags along on missions.
The subplot romance between the MC's is present but understated. For those readers who like to know if that translates to any adult content scenes I do want to share that there is a scene that has erotica between the two main characters but otherwise the author uses the building of sexual tension between Ivy and Landon to frustrate readers.
I'm not sure if my imagination got the better of me but I did feel the author did a good job pulling in current problematic topics that the military is dealing with presently. This included the way female soldiers are sometimes treated and politicians, who have their own agenda, using their power to influence how the military should be run if they want budget money to run. Adding realistic elements to this fictional read did elevate the overall story to more than just a simple romance themed fable.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It was a bit more suspense action focused than I'm used to but that's not a bad thing. The addition of the 'band of brothers' secondary characters added a lot of depth to the story and so I'm excited for the follow up installments. Looking at the Nov/2014 next installment "Her Lone Wolf" it's gonna be Clayne. Double excited.....
Ivy Halliwell has special abilities that make her the perfect covert operative for the super secret DCO (Department of Covert Operations). The problem is the agency hasn't found a partner who has the skills and staying power to survive which has Ivy skeptical about her new partner Landon Donovan. Sure he has the right credentials and seems to handle himself well in the training exercises but will he be able to handle the pressure out in the field when Ivy reveals what her special skills actually are?
Best to keep things professional and above board though knowing he's the whole package of brains and brawn does have her purring at the most inopportune moments. Not a good thing when their newest mission is more dangerous than anyone in the DCO had thought.
OK. I'm a sucker for a 'man in uniform' themed read. The work out regimen and dangerous alpha personality needed to be a special forces soldier are prime eye candy wet dream fantasy ecstasy. What American female wouldn't do their duty to pay homage to these gladiators who keep our country safe. :D
That being said this was a high octane action-suspense read that kept me on the edge of my seat for most of the story. From the very beginning when Landon is pulled out of his mission in Afghanistan I got vested in his character. By the time he and Ivy meet I was sold that a good time would be had for all. For the most part the story's main plot is the world building associated with a secretive department of covert operations whose agents have paranormal skills and continues as the reader tags along on missions.
The subplot romance between the MC's is present but understated. For those readers who like to know if that translates to any adult content scenes I do want to share that there is a scene that has erotica between the two main characters but otherwise the author uses the building of sexual tension between Ivy and Landon to frustrate readers.
I'm not sure if my imagination got the better of me but I did feel the author did a good job pulling in current problematic topics that the military is dealing with presently. This included the way female soldiers are sometimes treated and politicians, who have their own agenda, using their power to influence how the military should be run if they want budget money to run. Adding realistic elements to this fictional read did elevate the overall story to more than just a simple romance themed fable.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It was a bit more suspense action focused than I'm used to but that's not a bad thing. The addition of the 'band of brothers' secondary characters added a lot of depth to the story and so I'm excited for the follow up installments. Looking at the Nov/2014 next installment "Her Lone Wolf" it's gonna be Clayne. Double excited.....
April 23, 2014
Even getting slashed by shifters and mangled by mad scientists, life is good for the delicious dynamic duo of Landon and Ivy. While battling bad guys, these two burn up the pages in the first X-Ops series book, HER PERFECT MATE.
Special Forces Captain Landon Donovan has been pulled from the front lines to be part of a secret clandestine organization known as the DCO or Department of Covert Operations. Though Landon hasn't heard of them, he quickly figures out just who and what his sinfully sexy new partner, Ivy Halliwell, is.
Ivy has been downplaying her feline shifter tendencies, until she meets Landon and performs a bit, somehow trusting that he's got her back. She lets her feline side out to play when Landon is around, completely aroused and addicted to the man who may be her perfect mate.
But is Ivy just in shifter heat or are her feelings for Landon real? As the two become closer as a team and as a couple, they both struggle with the fact that life as they know it is over. Add a very dangerous terrorist kidnapping scientist and developing an unknown weapon, and disaster is looming large for these DCO teammates.
If you've read any of my reviews, you may notice that I'm not a huge fan of paranormal stories and tend to avoid them if possible. Fortunately, Ms. Tyler's HER PERFECT MATE looked good enough to check out and I'm very glad I took the chance! This book has everything from smoking hot sex scenes featuring military men, model beautiful shifters working undercover operations, a secret government program, international terroristic bad guys and a lot of potential for additional books featuring other characters.
The characters in HER PERFECT MATE were perfectly developed. Ms. Tyler didn't delve too deep into their backgrounds, keeping me fully present and engaged. With little backstory, I felt like I was able to better connect with the currency and urgency of this story. Landon was freakin' awesome--a definite alpha male who doesn't mind one bit that his girlfriend can kick his ass and watch his back at any given moment. The instant chemistry between him and Ivy was perfect--just erotic enough that you're on the edge of your seat waiting for them to JUST DO IT ALREADY but reserved just enough so that the tension is high for the entire book.
And how fabulous is Ivy?! The whole book can be summed up with this conversation between her and Landon:
Landon shook his head. "You shouldn't have had to go through that again." He pulled her into his arms and pressed his lips to her hair. "If you're going to slay all your own dragons, what do you expect me to do?"
"Love me."
Her character is such a fabulous heroine, and I loved that even though Ivy doesn't need Landon to fight her battles, he is more than willing and capable of going so. HER PERFECT MATE is a pretty fantastic opening act in the X-Ops series and I'm looking forward to many more amazing stories to come from this very talented author.
Special Forces Captain Landon Donovan has been pulled from the front lines to be part of a secret clandestine organization known as the DCO or Department of Covert Operations. Though Landon hasn't heard of them, he quickly figures out just who and what his sinfully sexy new partner, Ivy Halliwell, is.
Ivy has been downplaying her feline shifter tendencies, until she meets Landon and performs a bit, somehow trusting that he's got her back. She lets her feline side out to play when Landon is around, completely aroused and addicted to the man who may be her perfect mate.
But is Ivy just in shifter heat or are her feelings for Landon real? As the two become closer as a team and as a couple, they both struggle with the fact that life as they know it is over. Add a very dangerous terrorist kidnapping scientist and developing an unknown weapon, and disaster is looming large for these DCO teammates.
If you've read any of my reviews, you may notice that I'm not a huge fan of paranormal stories and tend to avoid them if possible. Fortunately, Ms. Tyler's HER PERFECT MATE looked good enough to check out and I'm very glad I took the chance! This book has everything from smoking hot sex scenes featuring military men, model beautiful shifters working undercover operations, a secret government program, international terroristic bad guys and a lot of potential for additional books featuring other characters.
The characters in HER PERFECT MATE were perfectly developed. Ms. Tyler didn't delve too deep into their backgrounds, keeping me fully present and engaged. With little backstory, I felt like I was able to better connect with the currency and urgency of this story. Landon was freakin' awesome--a definite alpha male who doesn't mind one bit that his girlfriend can kick his ass and watch his back at any given moment. The instant chemistry between him and Ivy was perfect--just erotic enough that you're on the edge of your seat waiting for them to JUST DO IT ALREADY but reserved just enough so that the tension is high for the entire book.
And how fabulous is Ivy?! The whole book can be summed up with this conversation between her and Landon:
Landon shook his head. "You shouldn't have had to go through that again." He pulled her into his arms and pressed his lips to her hair. "If you're going to slay all your own dragons, what do you expect me to do?"
"Love me."
Her character is such a fabulous heroine, and I loved that even though Ivy doesn't need Landon to fight her battles, he is more than willing and capable of going so. HER PERFECT MATE is a pretty fantastic opening act in the X-Ops series and I'm looking forward to many more amazing stories to come from this very talented author.
May 7, 2014
Talk Supe Review
*WIN A PAPERBACK COPY, CONTEST DETAILS ON THE BLOG, CLICK THE LINK FOR MORE INFO*
What an adventure! HER PERFECT MATE, book 1 of Paige Tyler's X-Ops series is perfecto! Mad scientists, a hunky and dorky male, sexy as sin feline heroine, testosterone and pheromones scenting the air, exciting chases and fights, furniture breaking smex, WHAT MORE CAN I ASK FOR?!
Paige Tyler pretty much summed up the series and shared bits and pieces about HER PERFECT MATE so I'll go to the highlights and make this quick. All I can do right now is gush, I loved everything about this novel and it's perfect balance of romance, action and urban fantasy. Captain Landon Donovan is so dreamy! He's every bit of an Alpha male and despite being human, he is not intimidated by Ivy and other shifters like her. He has respect for them but more importantly, he is aware of his own set of skills and limitations which makes him level headed and an excellent warrior. And the best thing about Landon is his sense of humor! Good gawd he made me LOL over his cat jokes directed towards Ivy, good thing our ferocious feline is game and didn't take things personally.
On to our heroine. Since the TV show, Charmed, I've developed feelings of endearment towards the name, Halliwell, so Ivy Halliwell already has points on my book just for her name alone. Happy to report that she didn't sully the name because not only is Ivy drop-dead gorgeous like the infamous super witch sisters from San Francisco, she's an amazing fighter and very grounded too. Ivy didn't have a chip on her shoulder because of her feline qualities and wasn't snarky which was surprisingly refreshing for an urban fantasy heroine. As for her shifter side, she doesn't completely shift, to me it looks more like a mutation like X-Men where only parts of her transform, claws and eyes, matched with super human abilities from speed, stealth, strength and healing. I love that PTyler didn't go full blown archetype with Ivy and the shifter myth is more scientific than magical lore and legend.
HER PERFECT MATE is a fantastic read, it's familiar but very unique! I love that there's a series plot that branches out, opening more complications and interesting characters to join in. As of the moment the story arc is about mad scientists tinkering with genetic mutations, replicating shifters in a lab with the hopes of creating hybrids like Ivy *shivers*. Any plot that revolves around people playing God gives me the creeps but from an action/adventure standpoint, it makes for a great plot. Can't wait to read more!
*WIN A PAPERBACK COPY, CONTEST DETAILS ON THE BLOG, CLICK THE LINK FOR MORE INFO*
What an adventure! HER PERFECT MATE, book 1 of Paige Tyler's X-Ops series is perfecto! Mad scientists, a hunky and dorky male, sexy as sin feline heroine, testosterone and pheromones scenting the air, exciting chases and fights, furniture breaking smex, WHAT MORE CAN I ASK FOR?!
Paige Tyler pretty much summed up the series and shared bits and pieces about HER PERFECT MATE so I'll go to the highlights and make this quick. All I can do right now is gush, I loved everything about this novel and it's perfect balance of romance, action and urban fantasy. Captain Landon Donovan is so dreamy! He's every bit of an Alpha male and despite being human, he is not intimidated by Ivy and other shifters like her. He has respect for them but more importantly, he is aware of his own set of skills and limitations which makes him level headed and an excellent warrior. And the best thing about Landon is his sense of humor! Good gawd he made me LOL over his cat jokes directed towards Ivy, good thing our ferocious feline is game and didn't take things personally.
On to our heroine. Since the TV show, Charmed, I've developed feelings of endearment towards the name, Halliwell, so Ivy Halliwell already has points on my book just for her name alone. Happy to report that she didn't sully the name because not only is Ivy drop-dead gorgeous like the infamous super witch sisters from San Francisco, she's an amazing fighter and very grounded too. Ivy didn't have a chip on her shoulder because of her feline qualities and wasn't snarky which was surprisingly refreshing for an urban fantasy heroine. As for her shifter side, she doesn't completely shift, to me it looks more like a mutation like X-Men where only parts of her transform, claws and eyes, matched with super human abilities from speed, stealth, strength and healing. I love that PTyler didn't go full blown archetype with Ivy and the shifter myth is more scientific than magical lore and legend.
HER PERFECT MATE is a fantastic read, it's familiar but very unique! I love that there's a series plot that branches out, opening more complications and interesting characters to join in. As of the moment the story arc is about mad scientists tinkering with genetic mutations, replicating shifters in a lab with the hopes of creating hybrids like Ivy *shivers*. Any plot that revolves around people playing God gives me the creeps but from an action/adventure standpoint, it makes for a great plot. Can't wait to read more!
March 24, 2014
WOW was what I thought of when I finished this book. I love shifter stories and I haven’t found a new series that really caught my attention until I read Her Perfect Mate.
Ivy Halliwell is working for a secret group within the US Government and has had a rough time of it. Having feline DNA makes her very special to the organization she works for. In the past she has been given partners that never appreciated this side of her and made her career and life miserable. For the third time she is in the process of getting a new partner and can only hope this one is more receptive to her abilities. Landon Donovan is and always has been a solider in the field. So when he was told to leave the field and head to DC he is not happy about it but he knows there is nothing he can do. Landon is more than surprised to find out that he has been brought to join a super-secret department within the US Government. And when they introduce him to his new partner Ivy, he doesn’t really see how she can be an agent.
I really, really enjoyed this book! I thought it was a fresh take on the shifter storyline. Landon is just plain HOT! I couldn’t stop picturing him in uniform (or out). Though he is a super-hot solider he is also very loyal and cares about those he works with. I was really impressed with how he treated Ivy from the beginning. Though he was completely surprised by her abilities he saw them as a benefit to the team not a detriment like all her previous partners. Ivy is completely surprised that Landon is excepting of her abilities and this makes her start to like him more than she should. Ivy herself is an amazing character that is both strong and sensitive. To most of the world she presents this tough, capable agent but underneath there is a vulnerability to her. She exposes this vulnerability to Landon, something she hasn’t done with anyone else. As they training together they both come to realize that they have some pretty potent chemistry and when they finally get together it’s explosive.
While Ivy and Landon’s romance is the center part of the story the book also has great additional characters that I believe round out the story. I liked the aspect of the organization that Ivy and Landon are a part of as I can see it being central to more stories as there is always a need for new agents. I hope that the next book will feature some of Landon’s old teammates who made several appearances in the story. Her Perfect Mate is a must read for anyone that likes a good shifter romance. I will now be eagerly awaiting each new book in the series by Paige Tyler.
Ivy Halliwell is working for a secret group within the US Government and has had a rough time of it. Having feline DNA makes her very special to the organization she works for. In the past she has been given partners that never appreciated this side of her and made her career and life miserable. For the third time she is in the process of getting a new partner and can only hope this one is more receptive to her abilities. Landon Donovan is and always has been a solider in the field. So when he was told to leave the field and head to DC he is not happy about it but he knows there is nothing he can do. Landon is more than surprised to find out that he has been brought to join a super-secret department within the US Government. And when they introduce him to his new partner Ivy, he doesn’t really see how she can be an agent.
I really, really enjoyed this book! I thought it was a fresh take on the shifter storyline. Landon is just plain HOT! I couldn’t stop picturing him in uniform (or out). Though he is a super-hot solider he is also very loyal and cares about those he works with. I was really impressed with how he treated Ivy from the beginning. Though he was completely surprised by her abilities he saw them as a benefit to the team not a detriment like all her previous partners. Ivy is completely surprised that Landon is excepting of her abilities and this makes her start to like him more than she should. Ivy herself is an amazing character that is both strong and sensitive. To most of the world she presents this tough, capable agent but underneath there is a vulnerability to her. She exposes this vulnerability to Landon, something she hasn’t done with anyone else. As they training together they both come to realize that they have some pretty potent chemistry and when they finally get together it’s explosive.
While Ivy and Landon’s romance is the center part of the story the book also has great additional characters that I believe round out the story. I liked the aspect of the organization that Ivy and Landon are a part of as I can see it being central to more stories as there is always a need for new agents. I hope that the next book will feature some of Landon’s old teammates who made several appearances in the story. Her Perfect Mate is a must read for anyone that likes a good shifter romance. I will now be eagerly awaiting each new book in the series by Paige Tyler.
September 21, 2015
3.5 stars
Review originally posted at RabidReads.com.
I’ve been wanting to try Paige Tyler for a long time. I finally picked up book one in her X-Ops series. I don’t know why it took me so long. I really enjoyed it.
We have Landon who is pulled of a very important mission in Afghanistan and told to go back stateside for a different mission. He isn’t given any details. He isn’t happy about leaving his team for what he feels has to be a paper pushing job at the Pentagon. He is trying to figure out what he did wrong to deserve the change in assignment.
Ivy doesn’t have good luck with military partners. They look down on her. Her most recent partner got himself killed because he wouldn’t listen to her. She is really not happy about the next one to come into the program to partner up with her. She is part of Department of Covert Operations. She is known as a EVA, extremely valuable asset. She is a shifter. Even in this unit designed for shifters, they are still looked at as lesser. They must be partnered with a human.
I loved the chemistry between Ivy and Landon. They had to fight to come together. Neither really trusted the other. They were willing to work together for the common goal. They made a great team. I really enjoyed the mixture of suspense and romantic tension between the characters. I liked several of the secondary characters.
My biggest gripe was the Ivy starts off a bit whiny with a need to have approval of Landon, even though she doesn’t really approve of him. I know not all heroines can be tough as nails, badass from the get go, but she had some real issues. She does get better by the end of the book. I see this series have a ton of potential. I can’t wait to pick up the next book in this series.
Review originally posted at RabidReads.com.
I’ve been wanting to try Paige Tyler for a long time. I finally picked up book one in her X-Ops series. I don’t know why it took me so long. I really enjoyed it.
We have Landon who is pulled of a very important mission in Afghanistan and told to go back stateside for a different mission. He isn’t given any details. He isn’t happy about leaving his team for what he feels has to be a paper pushing job at the Pentagon. He is trying to figure out what he did wrong to deserve the change in assignment.
Ivy doesn’t have good luck with military partners. They look down on her. Her most recent partner got himself killed because he wouldn’t listen to her. She is really not happy about the next one to come into the program to partner up with her. She is part of Department of Covert Operations. She is known as a EVA, extremely valuable asset. She is a shifter. Even in this unit designed for shifters, they are still looked at as lesser. They must be partnered with a human.
I loved the chemistry between Ivy and Landon. They had to fight to come together. Neither really trusted the other. They were willing to work together for the common goal. They made a great team. I really enjoyed the mixture of suspense and romantic tension between the characters. I liked several of the secondary characters.
My biggest gripe was the Ivy starts off a bit whiny with a need to have approval of Landon, even though she doesn’t really approve of him. I know not all heroines can be tough as nails, badass from the get go, but she had some real issues. She does get better by the end of the book. I see this series have a ton of potential. I can’t wait to pick up the next book in this series.
April 26, 2014
Paige Tyler has outdone herself with this riveting tale of extraordinary characters!
Her Perfect Mate is a book that once you finish reading it, you ask yourself..."Now what does one read after a book like this?". I find myself mystified when trying to come up with a review that will give this book it's due, a review that will maybe give it the grand justice that it deserves. With that said, let me try to put into words what a most superlative read this book is!
When I read a book that has captivated my attention in the most profound way, I don't like to give detailed description of the book. You can get that from the excerpt and/or synopsis that the author releases. However, I will give you a small glimpse into what is in store for your reading pleasure. This book will take you on a journey that will bewitch your full attention and keep you enchanted with it's twists, turns and plots of suspense.
Landon Donovan is in a class of heroes that you find, are few and far between. The devotion he shows in this book for his teammates, partner and job are first-rate. His loyalty is nothing short of miraculous. But this is nothing compared to what he feels for Ivy.
Ivy Halliwell is divine and to say she is like no other is an understatement. However, she questions herself when she is confronted day after day with disgruntled colleagues that see her, as less than human. Can she get over self doubt when she is partnered with Landon!?
Thank you Ms. Paige Tyler for allowing me the honor and extreme pleasure of reading this magnificent story. You continue to amaze me with your wit!
Her Perfect Mate is a book that once you finish reading it, you ask yourself..."Now what does one read after a book like this?". I find myself mystified when trying to come up with a review that will give this book it's due, a review that will maybe give it the grand justice that it deserves. With that said, let me try to put into words what a most superlative read this book is!
When I read a book that has captivated my attention in the most profound way, I don't like to give detailed description of the book. You can get that from the excerpt and/or synopsis that the author releases. However, I will give you a small glimpse into what is in store for your reading pleasure. This book will take you on a journey that will bewitch your full attention and keep you enchanted with it's twists, turns and plots of suspense.
Landon Donovan is in a class of heroes that you find, are few and far between. The devotion he shows in this book for his teammates, partner and job are first-rate. His loyalty is nothing short of miraculous. But this is nothing compared to what he feels for Ivy.
Ivy Halliwell is divine and to say she is like no other is an understatement. However, she questions herself when she is confronted day after day with disgruntled colleagues that see her, as less than human. Can she get over self doubt when she is partnered with Landon!?
Thank you Ms. Paige Tyler for allowing me the honor and extreme pleasure of reading this magnificent story. You continue to amaze me with your wit!
February 8, 2016
This book was just amazing. From the second Ivy and Landon meet I was hooked. It was such a great scene and what better way to get to know your new partner that by sparring. To all appearances super hot Landon has the advantage - big military man that he is. But Ivy has a special trick up her sleeve - her EVA (extremely valuable asset) status means that she's a shifter - a cat to be exact.
I think the best thing about this book was Ivy's hesitancy to engage beyond doing the job. She has been burned by partners in the past and she may finally have one that respects her and is willing to work with a "freak". Their first mission is great - and it was the perfect time for them to really get to know each other while they were hiking through the jungle.
But the big action takes place a little later - and involves missing scientists and a super evil guy that will do anything to get what he wants. And he wants some seriously scary stuff! Ivy and Landon are sent to investigate, and nothing really goes as planned. And in the midst of things - well - love blossoms.
I am totally hooked to this series now. I'm going to be tracking down the next one ASAP.
I think the best thing about this book was Ivy's hesitancy to engage beyond doing the job. She has been burned by partners in the past and she may finally have one that respects her and is willing to work with a "freak". Their first mission is great - and it was the perfect time for them to really get to know each other while they were hiking through the jungle.
But the big action takes place a little later - and involves missing scientists and a super evil guy that will do anything to get what he wants. And he wants some seriously scary stuff! Ivy and Landon are sent to investigate, and nothing really goes as planned. And in the midst of things - well - love blossoms.
I am totally hooked to this series now. I'm going to be tracking down the next one ASAP.
March 29, 2014
A unique new take on the world that is both paranormal and yet still normal enough to be believable. I really enjoyed this first book in a new series by Ms. Tyler, it had suspense, action, a new concept and played up the sexual tension beautifully.
I was seriously hooked from the beginning of the story, I fell in love with Landon quickly and then we met Ivy, she’s gorgeous and very capable and very easily underestimated, she’s deadly even if she doesn’t look like it.
Landon and Ivy shouldn’t be together since it’s against the rules, but their chemistry practically leaps off the page. It was easy to see them together in a relationship even if they have to keep it covert.
I really loved the new spin on shifters, it’s unique and completely plausible. I really can’t wait to read more stories in this series. It’s sure to be a hit with both military romance lovers and paranormal shifter stories.
Reviewed by Sheri for Cocktails and Books
I was seriously hooked from the beginning of the story, I fell in love with Landon quickly and then we met Ivy, she’s gorgeous and very capable and very easily underestimated, she’s deadly even if she doesn’t look like it.
Landon and Ivy shouldn’t be together since it’s against the rules, but their chemistry practically leaps off the page. It was easy to see them together in a relationship even if they have to keep it covert.
I really loved the new spin on shifters, it’s unique and completely plausible. I really can’t wait to read more stories in this series. It’s sure to be a hit with both military romance lovers and paranormal shifter stories.
Reviewed by Sheri for Cocktails and Books
September 27, 2020
3.5 stars - Special Ops romances are normally one of my 'go tos' when I'm looking for a change of pace from my normal staples (pnr and uf) so the setup for this with the covert agency and the pairing of the shifter covert agent with a special ops partner was really made for me.
There is great action in this book - both the on the mission and in the bedroom kinds. The romance is sort of thin, with the I loved yous coming kind of quickly (and there didn't seem to be the the typical shift mating bond thing going on) The hero is pretty perfect and I liked how even though he is very alpha he is a great partner. I did have a bit of a nit with the heroine, she stars out super, uber capable and strong, but becomes 'less' as the story goes on and has a pretty major flipside liability to her shifter powers.
Overall though I liked it and will likely read the next one even though the next up leading man was a jerk here.
There is great action in this book - both the on the mission and in the bedroom kinds. The romance is sort of thin, with the I loved yous coming kind of quickly (and there didn't seem to be the the typical shift mating bond thing going on) The hero is pretty perfect and I liked how even though he is very alpha he is a great partner. I did have a bit of a nit with the heroine, she stars out super, uber capable and strong, but becomes 'less' as the story goes on and has a pretty major flipside liability to her shifter powers.
Overall though I liked it and will likely read the next one even though the next up leading man was a jerk here.
April 21, 2014
Captain Landon Donovan is suddenly pulled out of an Op and sent back to D.C. He soon learns that he now works for DCO- Department of Covert Operations and his new partner is a female. The very hot, Ivy Halliwell. On their first meeting the attraction for both of them is instant. Landon can't quite figure Ivy out, but he knows there something different about her.
This story is a mix of paranormal and military romance. In the past I haven't had much luck with military romance novels, but this one really grabbed me. Landon & Ivy are quite fascinating and I couldn't wait to see where their story would lead. I thought Angelo and Clayne were also interesting characters. I'm looking forward to reading more books in this series. Ms. Tyler's writing flows beautifully. Her Perfect Mate is filled with danger, adventure and plum full of sexiness. A must read.
This story is a mix of paranormal and military romance. In the past I haven't had much luck with military romance novels, but this one really grabbed me. Landon & Ivy are quite fascinating and I couldn't wait to see where their story would lead. I thought Angelo and Clayne were also interesting characters. I'm looking forward to reading more books in this series. Ms. Tyler's writing flows beautifully. Her Perfect Mate is filled with danger, adventure and plum full of sexiness. A must read.
September 8, 2016
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Entire review can be found here: http://willreadtillidrop.wordpress.co...
It’s a pretty decent read, it did lose my attention here and there. But it’s adventurous, suspenseful and it’s mixed in with some romance to create a well-balanced blend that urged me to continue reading. I’m curious what the author’s future plans are with this series, so I’ll probably check out the next books in the series as well….I hope the next book is Clayne’s story.
Entire review can be found here: http://willreadtillidrop.wordpress.co...
It’s a pretty decent read, it did lose my attention here and there. But it’s adventurous, suspenseful and it’s mixed in with some romance to create a well-balanced blend that urged me to continue reading. I’m curious what the author’s future plans are with this series, so I’ll probably check out the next books in the series as well….I hope the next book is Clayne’s story.
May 4, 2015
Nice touch giving orders to human operative to kill his shifter partner if he/she is captured (all to avoid testing), but their agency was flawed imo. The ending is proof of this flaw, which makes it challenging to fully immerse myself in the world-building.
I'll try the next book in this series before deciding it's not for me. Maybe the hole will be filled and the ethics smoothed out. Maybe.
Grade: C -
I'll try the next book in this series before deciding it's not for me. Maybe the hole will be filled and the ethics smoothed out. Maybe.
Grade: C -
Displaying 1 - 30 of 378 reviews