For years, Jackson Murphy and Jonas Brooks have been dancing around each other in a waltz of uncertainty and longing. One unexpected kiss meant to comfort rattles the two alphas, but neither is willing to make the first move. Now, their meddling packs are conniving to force the two alphas to see what they truly share — a bond of love. A reconnaissance mission to Siberia brings more confusion as Jonas’ deepest secret is revealed, and a startling revelation threatens to destroy their relationship before it even starts.
John Quinton has been without a wife for more than twenty years, still grieving her sudden death. An assignment to Siberia to find a missing alpha plants him squarely in the path of one of the most feared feral female werewolves in the Siberian enclosure. But things aren't always as they seem. Just as John dares to care again, his hopes and dreams are smashed.
I have been blessed in this life to not only have parents that support me, but kids that do as well. I grew up in a loving but "Old School" French household. My parents worked for the airlines (TWA) so I was able to see a lot of Europe as a kid. I moved to Seattle Washington at the age of 22 and stayed there for twelve years before moving to Alaska for a little over two. Fairbanks, AK was one hell of an experience and I wouldn't hesitate to go back! I spent a little over a year in South Carolina before moving back to Arizona. I then left for Kansas for five years and now reside in Arizona. I've been connected to the military in one way or another for over half my life and wouldn't change a thing about it. Writing has become my full time job and I've never been so happy doing a job I love and being able to do it in my jammies. I plan on writing until I dry up and die. Hopefully, that won't happen soon!
First of all I must state GUILTY PLEASURE READ and as such I was not in the least disappointed. Even if trying to figure my way through all the J names got to be a bit distracting. :-p Jackson, Jonas, and John…I mean really, if you’re going to have three guys in a book be the focus, couldn’t one of them start with a different letter. I’m a speed reader my eyes just glance over it and recognize who I’m reading about. Oy this became confusing.
I’m just not going to do to much of my usual character update here because anyone who’s been willing to put in 20 books worth of reading knows exactly who these men are, especially John.
So to the point…Jackson and Jonas…YUM! Two very hot alpha men who deserve to find their happiness in life and with each other. Both men have given their lives over to being the alpha’s of their pack and raising the younger men in it. Both men were married previously and lost their wives. Jonas devoted his life to raising his son and when Jude move to be beta in another pack, tuck Hayden under his wing. Jackson on the other hand has been focused on annihilating all rogues. Once a navy SEAL always a SEAL and those skills certainly come in handy in killing off those pesky buggers. He has been a father figure to the werewolves under his command before joining the Maccon pack. Neither man has ever been attracted to another man…yet now they long for each other.
I loved how Jonas was almost shy and unsure about how to go about things, whether he wanted to act on his feelings for Jackson or not. But the draw between these two was just too strong and the scene in the kitchen where they finally admit it all…OH MY GOD HOT! Best part ever though, Jonas sitting Jude down for a little bit of advice. Cracked me up!
John of course has raised his 4 sons after the death of his wife. He’s been an admirable father and done nothing but shower love and support on his children raising them within the pack as well as the Indian reservation and the people there. All for are fine upstanding young men. He never thought he’d move on. But when everyone got the visits from their deceased loved ones and Isabelle told him he should move on and find a new love for himself his thoughts immediately turned to the werewolf female Anya. Notoriously unstable though the females may be he finds himself drawn to her. When he’s sent off to track and most like have to rescue Dane John secretly hopes to get to know Anya a little better.
Since I read both M/M and M/F novels I was a little excited to get to spend a little more time developing these two’s relationship. I liked how patient John was with Anya. Her reactions were great, she wasn’t going to trust too easily. The fact that she would misunderstand John’s intentions made such sense with how long she’d been isolated. I really felt like these two were a good balance for each other. It’s a nice thought to think of John finally getting to be happy himself. He absolutely deserves it.
I’m not going to give anything away here, but I really liked the twist this book took. I wasn’t expecting that and it made for a nice tension without feeling like it’s being forced in just to add said tension.
On a side note I am really enjoying the transformation Ms. Gasq-Dion is taking Carson through. He was such a virulent bastard to start this series and now he’s starting to be a real human being. I’ll be curious to see where he ends up and if he can repair his relationship with his sons.
One other note…I want a Maccon pack genealogy tree!!! There are sooooooooo many people and parts now I’m starting to lose track just in sheer volume. I’m a seriously contemplating drawing this up for myself. The plus side being I get to re-read all the books. Now isn’t that a nice little bene! That’s it. It’s official! Next time I’m having a major jones to do something for my OCD I’m starting this! I can just see it in all its beauty now. I might just have to teach myself some more Photoshop stuff so it looks all pretty. :D
I’m really curious to see where all this new influx of shifters and magic is going to go. Clearly Ms. Gasq-Dion has plots and plans for ages into the future. I’m one happy little camper of here. I’ll be a devoted reader for books and books to come! I can’t wait till we get into the boys’ books. I’m already attached to them all! Poor little Elijah needs his book! Gotta get him out of that awful house! My brain’s already racing with thoughts of where things might go. I can’t wait to find out.
As for this book, I’d give it a 4.5 and round it up to 5 for GR rating. There were times it felt a little rushed and I wished I could have had a little more time with things. Still I liked where things were going immensely and I’m so happy our “older” contingent is finding some happiness for themselves. Besides that Christmas party was a fun check in with everyone and hinted at more things to come quite nicely.
If you have stuck with this series to the point where you are reading book 20 and actually remembering half the characters in this crazy, fabulously addicting series, you’re doing pretty good. Each installment introduces more and more cast members, and while it is sometimes difficult to remember who is who, or who belongs to which pack, etc., it never feels wrong. This is, for the most part, one big, giant happy family. And for those suffering problems of memory loss, there is this fabulous site to help you out: Who's Who.
This particular story is about the older alphas, Jackson and Jonas, both straight up until this point. They both have withheld from relationships for many years, but now feel a strong attraction to each other. Unfortunately, or fortunately for them, it takes a little pushing from their kids to get them to act upon it. Them each going to their kids for gay sex advice was priceless. Needless to say, they figure things out and everything seems to be working itself out. Then, they are sent to Siberia.
Meanwhile, in Siberia, John Quinton has been working on an assignment when he meets feral wolf, Anya. They work through some trust issues, as Anya, up to this point, believes all men are evil, and John hasn’t been with anyone since his wife died. They really seem perfect for each other, and both realize this to be the case.
Then, Jackson and Jonas show up, there are some visits from the fates, some bad decisions and broken hearts before everyone goes their separate ways and tries to make the best of things. Thankfully, they come to their senses, fates be damned, and the story moves on to the other and newer characters. I’m still extremely intrigued by Killian and also Jonas and Jackson’s newest tenant. Bring on the next installment!
This review is going to be haphazard (again). The book bored me, so I am not in the mood to put extra effort into it.
Anyway, it’s time for the older generation. That’s a joke, considering the longevity of these wolves. And Jonas and Jackson are behaving like late teens or early twens. It’s more than a little ridiculous (especially Jonas).
Sabine… does not amuse me. Really, is it just me or is her depiction extremely misogynistic? And I don’t mean her lack of commitment or the promiscuity. But she’s such a cold fish about it. Come to think of it, this makes her a male stereotype rather than a female. I really don’t get why they hired her on at all. Just because she was friendly a time or two? From the get-go she has shown a pronounced lack of professionalism by relentlessly hitting on all the men while on the job. That’s harassment in my eyes. We even see how it makes some of them uncomfortable.
I am just shaking my head at . I guess in this series we can get past any crime, as long as a person regrets enough and maybe has a sexy bod or somethin’ so that he can be fixed up with a super romance later.
So frustrated about Anya’s beauty. It seems that’s what really snags John’s attention. And it’s such a perfect beauty too. A cute flaw or two would have been so much nicer. (This applies to everyone else, too, by the way.) As it is, I am picturing a red-haired Barbie. And yeah, yeah. So Anya has hardly spent any time in human form in the past decades – yet she assures us she read a lot (not to mention being up to date with electronics). Sure. Have fun flipping the pages with your paws.
The twist as such is interesting, I’ll admit. Eh, but previous couples have already dealt with the theory of this very situation before they were mated (and did better). So how it plays out here is a little disappointing. Another point in favour of this book is that the presence of a heterosexual romance actually bears relevance to the plot.
Killian and his misfortunes amuse me. It’s too bad that story is spread out so much. Might be ages until it comes to a conclusion. I still strongly dislike Cole and Chaz. I am so very much not looking forward to their books. Or maybe they’ll get to share so we can get their parts over with faster.
On the whole? It bored me. To be fair, I feel really sick with the flu right now. Or a head cold. Geh.
: Jonas Brooks is an alpha and a shifter member of the elite Skull Blasters unit. He’s raised his son Jude, who is also a shifter, alone since his wife’s death. He never thought he was or would be attracted to another man. But ever since that unplanned, well placed kiss from Jackson, he’s starting to re-think things. Jackson Murphy is also an alpha and a shifter among many within the team. He’s loved Jonas from afar for years, but Jonas continually pushes him away.
When the wolves within their packs get together and set their alphas up on a dinner date, Jackson is certain that Jonas is finally starting to let his guard down. It’s during their second date that Jonas succumbs to his obvious attraction to Jackson and the two have each other for desert! Soon they are sent on a rescue mission to Siberia after learning that John Quinton has been attacked. There they will learn that Fate is not always right and some bonds are meant to be broken.
I loved the push and pull in this book, there was no angst. Jackson knows what he wants and makes no secret of it, but he respects Jonas and doesn’t push. He wants Jonas to come to him on his own terms, and come to him he does. It’s not as long as some others in the series, so the events unfolded rather quickly, but the content wasn’t lacking in any way. For being a straight female, Gasq Dion has an unbelievable knowledge of the male persuasion.. and an even better knowledge of how to bend them to her will and make them scream. Oh, wait, that was Jackson bending Jonas. My bad!!
EVERYTHING that I love about this author and her stories was there. Passion, emotion, humor, anxiety and yet another twist in Gasq Dion’s shifter world. The sex between Jackson and Jonas is electric, sort of like their attraction. There were even a few times in this book that I was full on snort laughing. Jackson and Jonas were both previously married to women so they go to their packs for assistance in the guy/guy department. Jonas talking to Jude about the ins and outs (pun intended!) of having sex almost made me piss myself! This book, this series, this author are a must read for fans of the m/m genre.
I was not looking forward to this one as much as the others, but I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed it. Jonas and Jackson were so sweet and the progression of their relationship was fun, especially asking their sons for sex advice. I was not as invested in John and Anya but there was a twist with all four that I did not see coming, that broke my heart a little. Another enjoyable book by my favorite author!
Two for one story, one of which is a het pairing, but no girl parts described. I enjoyed reading about both couples and I was happy to see John get a new love. It was a nice touch of reality in my so-not-real story for there to be someone who didn't suddenly "go gay". Besides, Anya was just kick-ass, so I was rooting for her.
BUT. The whole deal with Jonas and Anya being mates even though they feel nothing for each other and love someone else...that whole plot thing failed for me. I hated it and I was pissed about it. I'm not sure if this was the author's way of trying to show that the mate bond doesn't make you love someone, so we have no doubt that all the couples really love each other and it is not just the bond, but it would have worked so much better for me if Jonas and Anya had just said, Hey, no, I'm in love with this other person, right from the beginning. They had the mate bond and were supposedly drawn to each other but it really read more like as friends or siblings than as lovers. I would have just been so much more impressed if they had stood by the people they love and then had the spirits/ancestors/gods (I can't remember what) had come to them and explained everything. Eh. We don't always get what we want, do we? *sigh*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This was another enchanting installment in the Assassin/Shifter Series. This installment was all about Jackson and Jonas. They had been circling each other for awhile so the boys set them up on a blind date with each other. I thought the idea was pretty cute. Of course it didn't take them but a minute to figure it all out. Then they jumped in with both feet or should I say with both paws. Even though both of them were completely straight they couldn't fight the bond they felt that bound them together. The funniest part was when they called their sons for advice on anal sex. That was a riot.
This was another book that gave you a peek at what might be coming in the future. It introduced some new characters. Talked about some of the guys that are still wanting to hook up with other guys that haven't yet, so you never know who the next book is going to be about.
I appreciate the way the author doesn't make us wait months and months for the next installment because she understands that we are waiting. She always gives us stories that are just as good if not better than the last. That's why I will continue to buy this series and her other books. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book!!
What I liked : - I'm really curious with Justice and Skylar. I hope their story would be good. - I loved seeing how Jackson was so devoted to Jonas.
What I disliked : - I'm sorry but for a double GFY book, it felt flat. But I keep reading it because I don't want to miss anything with other characters. I'm a bit OCD with my books. - I'm not interested with John and Anya's story. I scan read them. - I'm little annoyed with Sabine. - I don't like name 'Dasan'. I don't know. Sorry for being unreasonable. - Anya...Romanov? My goodness.. It just makes me think about Grand Duchess Anastasia Romanov who was killed by the Bolsheviks.
I hate leaving bad reviews (Or 'notes' to be precise). But I have to be honest with myself.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I have been following these books from the beginning and have loved everyone. I was so happy to see the two alphas finally get their HEA. I really enjoyed the twist with the broken bonds, I think I sat there with my mouth hanging open until I understood what was happening. I would recommend this book to all my friends. Please keep these books coming.
So Jonas and Jackson finally give in ;) And John is finally ready to move on 21 years after the death of his wife - but will he get his HEA?
I really wonder what is going to happen with Carson? Is he really a changed man? Lots of unanswered questions with "the kids" and what Killian really wants. Hmmmmm. Hopefully some stuff will be cleared up in the next installment.
Another great add to the series. Jackson Murphy and Jonas Brooks are two guys who didn't think they would ever fall in love with another man. John Quinton and Anya Romanov have past that they don't know how to move past and love again. Both great couples and cute story. Can't wait for the next.
These are just my notes because I have too many reviews to write.
There are no rundown waterfront properties on Puget Sound near Seattle that are anywhere that might have graffiti. There's nowhere that you could buy five miles of rundown waterfront property unless it had a single owner. Buildings on the piers are made of wood. Brick is scarce around here and doesn't float or move with the water.
It's fine that he wanted to dress nicely, I'm the same, but it's funny because in Seattle you can wear jeans to the opera so worrying about it is funny.
Stewardess? Really?
More than one attendant on a private plane?
Excellent talk about how being a top or bottom doesn't affect how much of a man you are and that some people don't even like anal sex. That's a refreshing change.
So far, the het romance is as major if not more so than the gay one. I'm glad there's a het couple but I didn't need so much of it. Secondary or tertiary characters would have been fine.
Jackson is being ridiculous. They'd never talked about it. It wasn't Jonas's place to out Jackson or assume he wanted their relationship known yet. It also lost them a sale of a beachfront property which is millions of dollars and an enormous commission. The reality is that we can't and don't need to be out to everyone. In a business situation, personal information is irrelevant and inappropriate if shared, actually. You don't talk about politics, you don't talk about religion, and you don't need to tell a one-time client that you're gay.
Oh! What an interesting plot! What? They resolved it that fast??
"No vicious dogs just vicious owners." Cool.
Oh, a very strong woman who pretends not to know stuff so a man can teach her. This is why I don't read het romance.
Much better time from the resolution of the plot to the ending. It's weird that I have to give kudos for that as it should be automatic.
Where to start? I'm a little behind on my reviews, so I'm going to have to catch up! First off, I didn't think the book was too short, I felt it was just right. If Mrs. Dion feels the story needs to end, then by all means it should. I hate authors that write 80,000 words and only half of it fits the story, I find myself skimming and that sucks. So these books? I never skim because I'm always afraid I'll miss something and besides, it's so good you don't WANT to!
I loved, loved, LOVED this book! I found myself giggling throughout with how Jonas behaved with Jackson. He was so shy and awkward and Jackson just took the reigns! What a strong alpha male! WOO HOO!!! I absolutely loved their story!!
John and Anya, *whew* How hot was that? Loved how John was so patient with Anya and they didn't just crawl into bed right away. The dad finally got a mate. I was a little worried I wouldn't like the m/f scene, but it was actually done very well. Then again, I don't think Sandrine has ever written anything I didn't like.
I laughed, I cried, (poor Elijah!) I'm sitting on pins and needles to find out why Killian is SO interested in Stone. Hmmm, Possibly a mating there?
LOVED ZACK!! Omg, he was hilarious hiding mines in the front yard!
And Kudos to Jonas for going to Jude for sexual advice. hee hee
"Would you like a power point presentation?" Love Tristan!!
JUST FREAKIN FANTABULOUS!!!!!!!!! I wish I could give it 10 stars!
I can't believe this is book 20 of the series, and I still feel like 'give me more!' (laugh) I have to admit there were some books that didn't match my expectation, but not once I thought it's enough for this series.
Really..how many authors can hold the readers this long?
I read some complain about quite less story of the few of latest books. I have to agree there's not much story for both [Lessons Learned] and this [Broken Bonds], but I also understand that it's because of the state of the series. It likes the interchange or developing state to the next layer of the series. So that most of the series not that much concentrated on main characters, but just used them to make foundation for the next chapter.
I had expected more for [Lessons Learned], so I'm a bit disappointed, but for this book I thought it's suitable. Jonas's really really Cute!!!! How come the daddy can be so cute like this !, even more than Jude (laugh) And thanks to Jackson's strong mind, and insistence (I love you Jackson! (^O^))❤ unless there would be no book 20!
Jackson Murphy & Jonas Brooks // John Quinton & Anya
Read August 2014 Read May 2016
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ For years, Jackson Murphy and Jonas Brooks have been dancing around each other in a waltz of uncertainty and longing. One unexpected kiss meant to comfort rattles the two alphas, but neither is willing to make the first move. Now, their meddling packs are conniving to force the two alphas to see what they truly share — a bond of love. A reconnaissance mission to Siberia brings more confusion as Jonas’ deepest secret is revealed, and a startling revelation threatens to destroy their relationship before it even starts.
John Quinton has been without a wife for more than twenty years, still grieving her sudden death. An assignment to Siberia to find a missing alpha plants him squarely in the path of one of the most feared feral female werewolves in the Siberian enclosure. But things aren't always as they seem. Just as John dares to care again, his hopes and dreams are smashed.
This book catches up with Jackson Murphy and Jonas Brooks after the kiss in the hospital when Scott was dying. Their loved ones set them up on a date, and they both realize that they are very attracted to each other. They end up going on a mission to Siberia, where they learn that their love might not be enough to keep them together. John has been single for 21 years since his wife died giving birth to Wyatt. On a mission in Siberia, he meets up with Enya who saves his life. Could he fall in love again? And what happens when fate says differently? Can you fight the fates and the Gods? This book is funny and also heart breaking, and everything in between! There is a ton going on in this book, and I love how we constantly learn new things about the characters we love. In that, this book does not disappoint! Could there be more to Jonas than just being an alpha? Pick this book up and find out!
I was looking forward to this book, I've liked the couple and was excited about their SL.
However I felt it was a letdown. I didn't get any of the "butterflies in the tummy" attraction that I've found with some of the other couples. The love and attraction just wasn't there - and the John / Anya SL?? COME ON... either include a storyline or don't.
We've now come so far from the original idea of the series, all in the name on another book. Now we're being set up for another 12 book series..... It doesn't settle with me at all. I'm going to give this series one more chance, but I'm miserable atm.
Finally, Jackson and Jonas realise what they mean to each other as well as how happy they will be together. They almost didn't make it but thank the fates they do get there with a little nudge from their pack members. I am also super happy that John Quinton also gets a second chance at happiness when he finds love with Anya, no one deserves it more. Lots more pieces of the puzzle are revealed in this book too, and I must say I absolutely freaking love the females, feral or not they are a serious force to be reckoned with so all those yellow eyed bastards best beware! Another amazing instalment in this outstanding series.