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Seven #2
Six Months
April Frost is a compassionate young woman with a steady job and ambitious goals. But the harder she runs away from her past, the more it threatens to destroy her. When three strangers enter her life, April is forced to face her demons and it's a battle she may not win.
Private investigators in the Breed world are men who take risks, and Reno Cole is no exception. As a Shifter, he's expected to control his inner animal. But lately his wolf has been venturing dangerously close to the city, and he's about to discover why. When Reno is reintroduced to a family friend, the attraction is immediate. April captivates him with her secretive eyes and resilient spirit. She's also in trouble, and despite the fact she's a human, Reno can't turn his back on her.
April is caught between two worlds: One that threatens to bury her dreams and another that could fulfill them. Can she trust the wolf at her door and find the courage to overcome her demons?
+ Cliffhanger-free
+ HEA
Private investigators in the Breed world are men who take risks, and Reno Cole is no exception. As a Shifter, he's expected to control his inner animal. But lately his wolf has been venturing dangerously close to the city, and he's about to discover why. When Reno is reintroduced to a family friend, the attraction is immediate. April captivates him with her secretive eyes and resilient spirit. She's also in trouble, and despite the fact she's a human, Reno can't turn his back on her.
April is caught between two worlds: One that threatens to bury her dreams and another that could fulfill them. Can she trust the wolf at her door and find the courage to overcome her demons?
+ Cliffhanger-free
+ HEA
394 pages, Paperback
First published March 25, 2014
918 people are currently reading
3840 people want to read
About the author
Dannika Dark
65 books6,196 followersDannika Dark is a nine-time USA TODAY Bestselling author, APA Audie Awards Finalist, and AudioFile Earphones Award winner. Her pulse-pounding urban fantasies and paranormal romances are an addiction that has thrilled readers for more than a decade. She does not support the use of AI.
ABOUT THE BOOKS
All Dannika Dark novels are written in the same universe (Mageriverse). Characters in this flawed world (much like our own) confront prejudice, constraints, and societal problems as they search for purpose or love. Diverse characters building a found family are at the heart of every story. Villains get their just deserts, and love conquers all.
THE MAGERI SERIES Urban Fantasy Romance
When a young woman unwittingly receives the gift of immortality from a Mage, she must leave everything behind. But her conviction is put to the ultimate test when she falls for her mortal enemy.
Enemies to lovers, found family, hidden magic, forced proximity, soul mates, protective mate, diverse supernaturals.
Primary genre: Fantasy
Start reading STERLING
THE SEVEN SERIES Paranormal Romance
Austin Cole and his brothers are forming a pack, and the last thing on their minds is getting tethered to a mate. But the more they resist, the harder they fall.
Found family, friends to lovers, enemies to lovers, rock star romance, tortured hero, grumpy/sunshine, biker romance, alpha hero, cinnamon roll hero, multicultural
Primary Genre: Romance
Start reading SEVEN YEARS
THE CROSSBREED SERIES Urban Fantasy Romance
Raven Black is a rogue who hunts criminals for fun. But when a secret organization offers her a job, she’ll need to rise to the challenge. Half-Mage, half-Vampire, she’s caught between two worlds. Will desire become her biggest distraction when she’s paired up with a Vampire?
Found family, wicked banter, morally grey characters, slow burn, emotional scars, "I would burn down the world for you," diverse characters, who hurt you?
Primary Genre: Fantasy
Start reading KEYSTONE
THE BLACK ARROWHEAD SERIES Paranormal Romance
Brave women and fiercely loyal men form an unconventional pack in this edge-of-your-seat paranormal romance with plenty of twists and turns.
Found family, friends to lovers, anxiety/disability rep, past trauma, multicultural, different worlds
Primary Genre: Romance
Start reading THE VOW
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 685 reviews
May 1, 2016
"Six Months" is book two in this paranormal series by Dannika Dark. I would have really loved this one but the heroine (April) really ended up ticking me off with her actions towards the people she "loved."
Reno is a shapeshifter who has fallen in love with a human. This is highly frowned upon in the shape shifter community; but Reno just doesn't give a darn. He wants April to be "his" and he will stop at nothing to make that happen. Gosh, he was a sweetheart. I loved how he wanted to take care of April, and protect her. To me, that is one of the greatest qualities a good hero should have. Too bad April didn't appreciate Reno to the fullest of what she should have....At least, that is what her actions showed me. I wanted to wring her neck with her treatment of Reno....and while I'm complaining....her best friend Trevor; she treated him no better.
Unfortunately that soured me for this particular story. The only reason why I still rated it a three stars is because the writing is still very good...and I'm in love with the Cole brothers...Their loyalty towards their pack is so admirable and it makes me want to be a part of it if I could!
I am going to take a little break from this series for now; but I will get back to it when the mood strikes again!!! Oh, and one more important thing.....Reno is a kinky bugger...LOL! That definitely boosted my rating too! ;-P
Reno is a shapeshifter who has fallen in love with a human. This is highly frowned upon in the shape shifter community; but Reno just doesn't give a darn. He wants April to be "his" and he will stop at nothing to make that happen. Gosh, he was a sweetheart. I loved how he wanted to take care of April, and protect her. To me, that is one of the greatest qualities a good hero should have. Too bad April didn't appreciate Reno to the fullest of what she should have....At least, that is what her actions showed me. I wanted to wring her neck with her treatment of Reno....and while I'm complaining....her best friend Trevor; she treated him no better.
Unfortunately that soured me for this particular story. The only reason why I still rated it a three stars is because the writing is still very good...and I'm in love with the Cole brothers...Their loyalty towards their pack is so admirable and it makes me want to be a part of it if I could!
I am going to take a little break from this series for now; but I will get back to it when the mood strikes again!!! Oh, and one more important thing.....Reno is a kinky bugger...LOL! That definitely boosted my rating too! ;-P
June 5, 2020
3. I liked this one a whole lot more 5 years ago when i read it the first time. I did listen to this on audio though, and I think I will have to blame the narrator on my dislike... She narrates the whole series, so I will either be switching over to reading, or deciding that 5 years is too much of a break and I've outgrown the series and just not finish.
June 2, 2016
3.5 This author still writes better than I expected
I admit, the previous book was a bit better, but that's only because I liked the chick more. This one, April, well... She was sweet and courageous in her own way, but I just couldn't relate.
Still a great book though and really worth trying out, better than a lot of the shifter books I've encountered before!
I admit, the previous book was a bit better, but that's only because I liked the chick more. This one, April, well... She was sweet and courageous in her own way, but I just couldn't relate.
Still a great book though and really worth trying out, better than a lot of the shifter books I've encountered before!
March 29, 2014
Title: Six Months
Series: Seven #2
Author: Dannika Dark
Release Date: March 25, 2014
Rating: 4 stars
Cliffhanger:. No.
HEA:
Six Months, just like the previous book in the Dannika Dark’s Seven series is a great, steamy paranormal romance, I devoured in matter of hours. It was all kind of sexy, a little bit kinky and fast paced, heartwarming story, from which I got my very needed paranormal fix.
You can say I’m addicted to strong alpha wolves, as they always make me all mushy and crazy for them. Reno definitely was in this category too. Personally, I felt a little bit more connected to Austin and Lexi, yet I was enjoying myself immensely while reading Six Months . It’s a great story for those who crave some alpha lovin’ and don’t mind mysterious, broody wolves or a little bit naïve heroines.
And the few sex scenes where over the moon and back hot. The steam level was so perfect, I’m still tingling and trying to calm down my internal inferno. Reno was one sexy beast!
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March 29, 2014
August 19, 2021
I enjoyed this second book in the SEVEN series. April had a hard life, growing up after losing her father young and with a mother who was a drug addict. Now she works as a manager at Lexi's candy shop, but still has a lot of debt dumped on her by her family, and few prospects. I thought she fit well with Reno, who is a private investigator and hard no-nonsense figure. They made a good match. I also am enjoying the way the rest of the brothers develop and looking forward to more of this series.
December 29, 2020
5 Six Months Stars
April and Reno are my favorite couple from this whole series and I am going to tell you why.
April is this strong and fiercely independent person because she HAS to be. No one has ever really been there for her. Not her mother, not her sister, heck even Trevor her best friend, he tends to see the smiles and the façade she has mastered, he doesn’t see the pain she has underneath.
April is this corky, smart, and clumsy girl who is one heck of a great friend. Boy, this girl has the backbone to rival any of the males in the pack; maybe that's why I love this book so much.
Reno is a stoic man who feels things but doesn’t show em. He might be the oldest born but he isn’t Alpha and that has to mess with him. But he doesn’t let it show.
And when he sees April the world just began and ended for him with her. I think that shows what kind of man Reno is. He doesn’t care that she is only human, she is his and that’s all he needed to know.
To the readers who think April is weak, I say h-e-l-l-s no she is strong. She might have made some bad choices and kept things to herself when she should have let someone in. But she didn’t trust anyone to be who she needed them to be. Not until she meets and lets Reno in.
She had to wait for her prince, he may not be charming but he is hers and she is his.
Loved the narration each book is a performance and with each listens I love it more and more.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
April and Reno are my favorite couple from this whole series and I am going to tell you why.
April is this strong and fiercely independent person because she HAS to be. No one has ever really been there for her. Not her mother, not her sister, heck even Trevor her best friend, he tends to see the smiles and the façade she has mastered, he doesn’t see the pain she has underneath.
April is this corky, smart, and clumsy girl who is one heck of a great friend. Boy, this girl has the backbone to rival any of the males in the pack; maybe that's why I love this book so much.
Reno is a stoic man who feels things but doesn’t show em. He might be the oldest born but he isn’t Alpha and that has to mess with him. But he doesn’t let it show.
And when he sees April the world just began and ended for him with her. I think that shows what kind of man Reno is. He doesn’t care that she is only human, she is his and that’s all he needed to know.
To the readers who think April is weak, I say h-e-l-l-s no she is strong. She might have made some bad choices and kept things to herself when she should have let someone in. But she didn’t trust anyone to be who she needed them to be. Not until she meets and lets Reno in.
She had to wait for her prince, he may not be charming but he is hers and she is his.
Loved the narration each book is a performance and with each listens I love it more and more.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
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April 6, 2014
Six Months is book 2 in the Seven series by Dannika Dark. This book focuses on April, the manager at Sweet Treats owned by Lexi from the first book. April has had a very tough life. She lost her father early and her mother was a drug addict. After her mother abandoned them April and her younger sister were raised by her Grandmother. After her Grandmother passed away, her younger sister moved away and April found out that her Grandmother had accrued a very large debt, spread around with various loan sharks. Just when she thought she had it all paid off, she was visited by some very unsavory men and told that she was nowhere near out of debt.
The other main character of this book that we are introduced to is Reno Cole, the eldest of the Cole brothers. Reno is a Private Investigator and a very intimidating man. When he lets his wolf out to run, he knows he has to stay away from town, away from humans, but somehow he keeps finding himself closer and closer to town, drawn to the tiny little trailer where April Frost lives.
“That was the night a fierce and beautiful creature walked into my life and changed it forever.”
April first gets to know Reno when he is in his wolf form. And a trust is built. Eventually as April finds out about the world that Reno lives in, the Shifter world, she begins to accept it. And the attraction and bond is growing between Reno and April. But a Shifter and a Human? That is simply not acceptable in the Shifter world. And April is keeping a lot of secrets. She refuses to ask for help with her debts and the loan sharks putting pressure on her. She wants to handle it on her own.
Reno and April face so many challenges. Both personally from secrets they keep hidden and from current threats. Can they trust each other enough to let down the walls they have built and allow each other in?
I think one of the things I enjoy the most about this series is the strong family bond the Cole family/Weston Pack, have. It is explained that Shifters, both in wolf form and in human form, are a pack, a family. They protect one another, no matter what. And even though a large family of brothers is bound to get into trouble, to make not so great decisions every so often, they are a family. I loved getting to see the relationship still going strong between Austin and Lexi. And a new character has been introduced in this book Trevor, who is April’s best friend.
“I’d been so fixated on having a home that I’d never realized how a person could be the very thing I was searching for. Reno was home, and I was finally ready to go.”
Although I don’t think I enjoyed the relationship between Reno and April as much as I did as the one in the first book between Austin and Lexi, this is still a fun, sexy and suspenseful great addition to the Seven series.
August 18, 2016
Let me start by saying HOW MUCH I expected to like this book. I was impressed by the Mageri series and I really enjoyed the first book in the Wesley pack series Seven Years. When I saw that it was the start of a series I pre-ordered the next part Six Months. Unfortunately, this book felt like it was written by someone else and not edited at all.
I guess I liked Reno, but I still don't feel like I know anything about him. He wasn't fleshed out. I didn't feel any connection between him and April, no chemistry.
I didn't like April at all. She was so wishy-washy and she made so many really bad decisions, I just wanted to smack her upside the head. I don't understand how she inspired such loyalty and love in everyone around her because everything she did was without common sense and ended up hurting someone else.
It was fun seeing more of the the Weston pack, but my view of a few of the characters was badly tarnished by this book. Lexi and Austin were great, but it would have nice if they weren't constantly all over each other in front of everyone. Lexi's mom seemed shrewish and abrupt, Wheeler was just a massive jerk, and Ben and Jericho both seemed self-absorbed and careless.
Nothing in the story seemed to flow, scenes were left unfinished at the end of a chapter and you don't find out what happened until the middle of the next chapter or later. I can understand doing it this way once to increase tension and leave a sense of anticipation, but don't do it over and over again throughout the book. It ruined the feeling and I was just left annoyed and frustrated.
I had to put this book down more than once because I was so exasperated. I never managed to connect with any of the characters, and the plot was so choppy and unfocused that it didn't seem real. The whole Carlos plot-line felt rushed and tacked on to try to make the reader feel sorry for April. The Maddox plot-line could have been skipped altogether and it would not have hurt the book even a smidge.
I will give the next installment a try, but if it's as bad as this one I may have to give the rest a pass.
EDIT: The more I think about it, the more I want to go back and read Seven Years again to see if it matches my first impression or if it is more like Six Months than I thought.
I guess I liked Reno, but I still don't feel like I know anything about him. He wasn't fleshed out. I didn't feel any connection between him and April, no chemistry.
I didn't like April at all. She was so wishy-washy and she made so many really bad decisions, I just wanted to smack her upside the head. I don't understand how she inspired such loyalty and love in everyone around her because everything she did was without common sense and ended up hurting someone else.
It was fun seeing more of the the Weston pack, but my view of a few of the characters was badly tarnished by this book. Lexi and Austin were great, but it would have nice if they weren't constantly all over each other in front of everyone. Lexi's mom seemed shrewish and abrupt, Wheeler was just a massive jerk, and Ben and Jericho both seemed self-absorbed and careless.
Nothing in the story seemed to flow, scenes were left unfinished at the end of a chapter and you don't find out what happened until the middle of the next chapter or later. I can understand doing it this way once to increase tension and leave a sense of anticipation, but don't do it over and over again throughout the book. It ruined the feeling and I was just left annoyed and frustrated.
I had to put this book down more than once because I was so exasperated. I never managed to connect with any of the characters, and the plot was so choppy and unfocused that it didn't seem real. The whole Carlos plot-line felt rushed and tacked on to try to make the reader feel sorry for April. The Maddox plot-line could have been skipped altogether and it would not have hurt the book even a smidge.
I will give the next installment a try, but if it's as bad as this one I may have to give the rest a pass.
EDIT: The more I think about it, the more I want to go back and read Seven Years again to see if it matches my first impression or if it is more like Six Months than I thought.
January 8, 2025
I am going to change it up a bit by starting with a disclaimer. I am a huge fan of Dannika Dark and all her books. Okay so now that that’s done, I can continue. This book is the second in the Seven Series. The first book, also titled Seven Years, tells the story of Austin and Lexie’s romance. Austin is the packmaster of the Weston Pack. This time around, the story centers around Reno, Austin’s brother, and April, the human manager of Lexie’s candy store. April and Reno meet briefly in Seven Years and they have never forgotten each other.
The world that this story takes place in, is the same world of the Breed that was first introduced in the Mageri Series by this author. Animal shifters, or in this case wolf shifters, keep their existence secret as do the rest of the Breed. April and Reno’s romance almost seems doomed due to the Breed not having anything to do with humans. But really that was almost the least of their problems, because when April’s grandmother died, April inherited a huge debt that must be paid off to two different loan sharks. She makes some really poor choices while dealing with a loan shark enforcer, because she refuses to let anyone help her.
The story is about April and Reno, but it is also about the love and acceptance of family or in this case the Weston Pack. April’s very humanity, with a hefty side dose of questionable decisions, cause problems for her, Reno and the Pack. I enjoyed the interactions of all the brothers that make up the pack. Each pack member have fully realized personalities; some of them I really like(Austin, Denver and Ben) and some the jury(me), is still out on(Wheeler and Jericho). Hopefully, each will get their own books. April as a character, was smart and caring but also really damaged due to a horrible childhood. Reno is the total alpha male package, a package that comes with loyalty and a protective streak a mile long for April and his pack. The question here is, will April learn to trust Reno enough to let him in or will she lose everything when the loan enforcer decides to make her life hell? And equally importantly, can the Pack accept a human as Reno’s life mate?
This book was something for almost everyone-romance, suspense, steamy sexual scenes and humor. The world building of the wolf shifters continues with this book and as usual, the author’s view of the world of the Breed just gets more intricate. It was a really fast read for me and I enjoyed every minute. To me, this series is already paranormal romance at it’s very best and we are only two books in. (RabidReads.ca)
The world that this story takes place in, is the same world of the Breed that was first introduced in the Mageri Series by this author. Animal shifters, or in this case wolf shifters, keep their existence secret as do the rest of the Breed. April and Reno’s romance almost seems doomed due to the Breed not having anything to do with humans. But really that was almost the least of their problems, because when April’s grandmother died, April inherited a huge debt that must be paid off to two different loan sharks. She makes some really poor choices while dealing with a loan shark enforcer, because she refuses to let anyone help her.
The story is about April and Reno, but it is also about the love and acceptance of family or in this case the Weston Pack. April’s very humanity, with a hefty side dose of questionable decisions, cause problems for her, Reno and the Pack. I enjoyed the interactions of all the brothers that make up the pack. Each pack member have fully realized personalities; some of them I really like(Austin, Denver and Ben) and some the jury(me), is still out on(Wheeler and Jericho). Hopefully, each will get their own books. April as a character, was smart and caring but also really damaged due to a horrible childhood. Reno is the total alpha male package, a package that comes with loyalty and a protective streak a mile long for April and his pack. The question here is, will April learn to trust Reno enough to let him in or will she lose everything when the loan enforcer decides to make her life hell? And equally importantly, can the Pack accept a human as Reno’s life mate?
This book was something for almost everyone-romance, suspense, steamy sexual scenes and humor. The world building of the wolf shifters continues with this book and as usual, the author’s view of the world of the Breed just gets more intricate. It was a really fast read for me and I enjoyed every minute. To me, this series is already paranormal romance at it’s very best and we are only two books in. (RabidReads.ca)
April 4, 2014
Title: Six Months
Series: Seven series #2
Author: Dannika Dark
Release Date: March 25, 2014
Rating: Four stars
Cliffhanger:No
HEA:
There's a buzzing sensation when you have chemistry with someone. It's like there are invisible threads connecting your bodies and igniting into sparks, and the residual pulse bounces back in shockwaves, growing stronger with each second.
I felt that with Reno.
I felt it too. Man, did I feel it. This couple's sexual chemistry was unmistakable and exciting. I really wasn't expecting to enjoy it as much as I did the first one, but it was one of those second books that was a delightful surprise. I wouldn't go so far as to say I loved this one, it had it's flaws, but there were so many things I enjoyed. Overall, the author's fantastic storytelling skills completely won me over and I still easily gave this four stars. The dynamic of the wolf pack-their culture, loyalty, and support of one another was amazing and I fell for all the supporting characters almost as much as the MC's. I am really looking forward to reading the rest of the pack's upcoming stories. They were built up so well.
This book continues with Reno's story in the Weston shifter wolf pack. Reno is the quiet and stoic one of the pack. He always seemed a little hard and cold and a little mysterious. He seemed to have a military past based on his extreme neatness and military style buzz cut. It was confirmed that he served in several wars (shifters live longer due to decelerated aging.) His experiences in battle and getting burned by the one woman he was crazy about caused him to be somewhat of a lone wolf. He seems very lonely and when he crosses paths with April, she's a shock to his system and he's unable to stop thinking about her despite the fact that she's human. He knows logically they can never be anything. He knows this. But he wants her, unequivocally, and he's not ashamed to admit it. And to hell with anyone who tries to tell him it could never work. Let me tell you, I loved Reno and his badass, motorcycle riding, take charge, bounty hunter-turned PI self. He was surprisingly sexy as hell. The way he took control yet was sensitive to April and her fears and issues was perfect. I was definitely feeling him.
"Look at me," he said when my head fell back and my eyes closed. "April, look at me when I take you."
A turbulent power rolled in his voice and I wondered how he could sound so in control when his body felt anything but.
He glanced up at me with smoldering brown eyes and I realized what made him so attractive to me-his commanding presence combined with a softness whenever he looked at me.
Now April, I can't say I was enjoying her as much. She had her good points-she was a book addict that was obsessed with old "bodice ripper" romances. (I had to smile at that) She had a great sense of humor, and she was a strong and independent heroine. But in my opinion, independent to the point of recklessness and stubbornness. She constantly turned down help of any kind from her friends forcing her to but her life in danger-repeatedly. This girl had the world on her shoulders. Trouble from everyone in her family that dump their mistakes on her and leave her to clean up the mess. The more she struggled to dig herself out of the trap she was ensnared in, the deeper she sank and the more hopeless things became until she made a series of BAD decisions that had me shaking my head in disbelief. You know the saying, Desperate times call for desperate measures? Well, that about says it all. Reno was there for her no matter what though and he was her rock. He never gave up on her.
Yeah, you fucked up a few times. But I'm not going anywhere. That's what makes me different from every other guy you've met. I'm a shifter, and we don't walk out on our women.
April struggles with accepting any type of relationship with Reno. Not only are they from different worlds and cultures, they won't age at the same rate and she's pretty much the definition of a hot mess for the foreseeable future.
I loved Reno, even though I hadn't declared it aloud to him. But I was the daughter of a drug addict, a traveling circus of debt, and a girl with a rocky past who didn't trust men. I didn't have skeletons in my closet-I had a boneyard.
This book was full of action and hot shifters, great humor and I enjoyed the fact that there was more heat and intensity in this one than the previous book. This is a great paranormal shifter series-I thoroughly enjoyed myself reading these books back to back. If you haven't read book one, it would be helpful to start there, but not necessary. The author reiterates the basic principles of the wolf culture and general events from the previous books. You would get some spoilers though if you read them out of order. They are simply fabulous! I am now impatiently waiting for the next installment.
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March 21, 2015
4.5 "Reno is my Hero" Stars for both the story and narration!
I love the complex characters and plethora of unique story lines in the Weston Pack! Moreover the combination of Dannika Dark's fantastic writing and Nicole Poole's expert narration has quickly become one of my PNR favorites! Although Six Months has a very different flavor from Seven Months, in that we are dealing with very different personalities and circumstances, I found it to be equally as compelling and addicting! Now I can't wait to listen to Five Weeks to be able to immerse myself more in this addicting shifter world!
For those of you who have not yet had a chance to listen to Seven Years, Book 1 of the Seven Series, while it is not essential that you do so; I would highly recommend that this series be read in order. Although each book focuses on a different main couple and is cliffhanger free (as it relates to the romance and main suspenseful conflict in the plot); the shifter world, and the dark secrets that generally underlie it, are slowly unfolded and revealed sequentially across this series. Therefore, for maximum enjoyment, and to avoid potential spoilers, I recommend that you listen to Seven Years before Six Months.
We first meet April Frost in Book 1, Seven Years. She is the human friend and co-worker of Lexi, the heroine from Seven Years. As she assumes a new role at Lexi's candy shop, as the manager of the establishment, April's social interactions with Lexi also increase. Thus how April meets Reno Cole, the eldest brother of Austin Cole (the hero of Seven Years).
Like Austin, Reno is a shifter and part of the Weston pack, but that's where the similarities end. Reno is generally a darker, more private type of person. He wasn't always this way, but his past has changed him, and as a result he's had to adapt. For example, although also an alpha by nature and notwithstanding that he's the oldest Cole brother, he's had to come to accept Austin as the pack's alpha leader. Additionally, he is generally considered to have a pretty dark reputation with women.
Lexi, in turn, is super sweet on the outside. At first blush, you would think she is the girl next door with not a care in the world. Life, however, has not been easy for her. Try though she might, she just can't seem to escape the ghosts of her family's past. When her situation goes from desperate to worse, she is at a loss as to who to trust, but remains resolute in her need to control her fate.
Reno, however, is not a man to take no for an answer; and takes it upon himself to get to the bottom of April's secrets. Even when some of those secrets call into question April's true loyalties, Reno can't help his feelings. April and Reno, however, come from two completely different worlds. As a shifter, who ages slowly and has a lifespan several times longer than a human, it would be unheard of for Reno to take a human for a mate. Moreover, both April and Reno have scars from the past that threaten to tear each other apart. In the end, will Reno and April be each other's salvation or damnation?
Ms. Poole renders another great performance in Six Months! Not only does she expertly bring to life the same voices that I came to love in Seven Years, providing me with a sense of continuity between these two great stories, but she also creates new ones that fit perfectly the personalities of the new characters.
One of the features that I look for in a good narration is distinguishable characters. Ms. Poole excels in this regard. Not only does she produce genuine voices for both the male and female parts; but she also manages to produce varied intonations for each one of the numerous same-gender characters. Her ability to create so many different voices, is one of the features that really distinguishes Ms. Poole as a great narrator. I absolutely love that her renditions ensure that the listener can easily tell who is speaking throughout the book--without having to rely on dialogue tags--thereby ensuring that the focus is on enjoying the story.
Perhaps my favorite part of Ms. Poole's performance is her portrayal of April. With one listen to her characterization, you instantly get a good snapshot of April's persona. Although she lacks the confidence and strong authoritative sound of Lexi, she nonetheless pours April's strong need for control in her voice. Resolute in her determination to be the one to determine her future, even if her choices are limited, you can hear April's anguish but yet budding courage in her dialogues.
Ms. Poole also does a fantastic job of conveying emotions. From the fast-paced, suspense-filled scenes, to the hot and passionate ones, her performance helps complete the total effect of this spectacular story.
All in all, I am in love with the Seven Series! I have to say that this is the first series in a very long time that I finish one book, and can't wait to dive into the next one in the series! No doubt, it's the effect that could only be rendered by combining a great story with a fantastic narration!
Source: Review copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I love the complex characters and plethora of unique story lines in the Weston Pack! Moreover the combination of Dannika Dark's fantastic writing and Nicole Poole's expert narration has quickly become one of my PNR favorites! Although Six Months has a very different flavor from Seven Months, in that we are dealing with very different personalities and circumstances, I found it to be equally as compelling and addicting! Now I can't wait to listen to Five Weeks to be able to immerse myself more in this addicting shifter world!
For those of you who have not yet had a chance to listen to Seven Years, Book 1 of the Seven Series, while it is not essential that you do so; I would highly recommend that this series be read in order. Although each book focuses on a different main couple and is cliffhanger free (as it relates to the romance and main suspenseful conflict in the plot); the shifter world, and the dark secrets that generally underlie it, are slowly unfolded and revealed sequentially across this series. Therefore, for maximum enjoyment, and to avoid potential spoilers, I recommend that you listen to Seven Years before Six Months.
We first meet April Frost in Book 1, Seven Years. She is the human friend and co-worker of Lexi, the heroine from Seven Years. As she assumes a new role at Lexi's candy shop, as the manager of the establishment, April's social interactions with Lexi also increase. Thus how April meets Reno Cole, the eldest brother of Austin Cole (the hero of Seven Years).
Like Austin, Reno is a shifter and part of the Weston pack, but that's where the similarities end. Reno is generally a darker, more private type of person. He wasn't always this way, but his past has changed him, and as a result he's had to adapt. For example, although also an alpha by nature and notwithstanding that he's the oldest Cole brother, he's had to come to accept Austin as the pack's alpha leader. Additionally, he is generally considered to have a pretty dark reputation with women.
Lexi, in turn, is super sweet on the outside. At first blush, you would think she is the girl next door with not a care in the world. Life, however, has not been easy for her. Try though she might, she just can't seem to escape the ghosts of her family's past. When her situation goes from desperate to worse, she is at a loss as to who to trust, but remains resolute in her need to control her fate.
Reno, however, is not a man to take no for an answer; and takes it upon himself to get to the bottom of April's secrets. Even when some of those secrets call into question April's true loyalties, Reno can't help his feelings. April and Reno, however, come from two completely different worlds. As a shifter, who ages slowly and has a lifespan several times longer than a human, it would be unheard of for Reno to take a human for a mate. Moreover, both April and Reno have scars from the past that threaten to tear each other apart. In the end, will Reno and April be each other's salvation or damnation?
Ms. Poole renders another great performance in Six Months! Not only does she expertly bring to life the same voices that I came to love in Seven Years, providing me with a sense of continuity between these two great stories, but she also creates new ones that fit perfectly the personalities of the new characters.
One of the features that I look for in a good narration is distinguishable characters. Ms. Poole excels in this regard. Not only does she produce genuine voices for both the male and female parts; but she also manages to produce varied intonations for each one of the numerous same-gender characters. Her ability to create so many different voices, is one of the features that really distinguishes Ms. Poole as a great narrator. I absolutely love that her renditions ensure that the listener can easily tell who is speaking throughout the book--without having to rely on dialogue tags--thereby ensuring that the focus is on enjoying the story.
Perhaps my favorite part of Ms. Poole's performance is her portrayal of April. With one listen to her characterization, you instantly get a good snapshot of April's persona. Although she lacks the confidence and strong authoritative sound of Lexi, she nonetheless pours April's strong need for control in her voice. Resolute in her determination to be the one to determine her future, even if her choices are limited, you can hear April's anguish but yet budding courage in her dialogues.
Ms. Poole also does a fantastic job of conveying emotions. From the fast-paced, suspense-filled scenes, to the hot and passionate ones, her performance helps complete the total effect of this spectacular story.
All in all, I am in love with the Seven Series! I have to say that this is the first series in a very long time that I finish one book, and can't wait to dive into the next one in the series! No doubt, it's the effect that could only be rendered by combining a great story with a fantastic narration!
Source: Review copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 30, 2016
Six Months is the second installment in Dannika Dark's light paranormal romance series titled Seven. To make this review short and sweet, I thought I'd get right to the point:
I enjoyed...
-Learning more about the shifter world featured in this series.
-The great storytelling...and the men ;)
-Seeing more of the characters from the first book.
I did not enjoy...
-The weak heroine (IMO)...to the point of annoyance.
-The heroine's continued references to "my inner voice". It felt too much like FSOG's repetitive "inner goddess".
-The audio experience, specifically the heroine's voice.
(Do you notice a theme here?)
Each book in this series focuses on a different shifter and centers on life within the pack along with a romance. Just because I didn't enjoy the female lead in Six Months, I still plan on continuing the series. My hope is that future books will offer stronger women. I liked the heroine in the first book so fingers crossed!
My favorite quotes:
"I can speak from experience when I tell you that running won't get rid of your problems. They always catch up with you. And if you've spent your life running from them, you'll be too damned tired to fight them off."
"Sometimes it's OK to let people know you don't have everything under control. Nobody's perfect and it doesn't say anything bad about you. We all have things going on in our personal life but you can't carry that burden alone."
The Seven series includes the following installments as of April 2015:
#1-Seven Years
#2-Six Months
#3-Five Weeks
#4-Four Days
#5-Three Hours
#6-Two Minutes
#6.5-Seven world novel
#7-One Second
I enjoyed...
-Learning more about the shifter world featured in this series.
-The great storytelling...and the men ;)
-Seeing more of the characters from the first book.
I did not enjoy...
-The weak heroine (IMO)...to the point of annoyance.
-The heroine's continued references to "my inner voice". It felt too much like FSOG's repetitive "inner goddess".
-The audio experience, specifically the heroine's voice.
(Do you notice a theme here?)
Each book in this series focuses on a different shifter and centers on life within the pack along with a romance. Just because I didn't enjoy the female lead in Six Months, I still plan on continuing the series. My hope is that future books will offer stronger women. I liked the heroine in the first book so fingers crossed!
My favorite quotes:
"I can speak from experience when I tell you that running won't get rid of your problems. They always catch up with you. And if you've spent your life running from them, you'll be too damned tired to fight them off."
"Sometimes it's OK to let people know you don't have everything under control. Nobody's perfect and it doesn't say anything bad about you. We all have things going on in our personal life but you can't carry that burden alone."
The Seven series includes the following installments as of April 2015:
#1-Seven Years
#2-Six Months
#3-Five Weeks
#4-Four Days
#5-Three Hours
#6-Two Minutes
#6.5-Seven world novel
#7-One Second
May 20, 2024
So many emotions.
Oh I could go crackers with this book.
Why am I mad? Well, I'll tell you.
This. Was. Not. How. The. Book. Was. Supposed. To. End. I mean really Ms. Dark, why would you do that? But I do get that it is an uncovential ending. But it is just wrong. I was waiting for a loophole, I still am to be honest. Hello there is the possibility of a vampire and a mage so what gives?
Reno the oldest of the Cole brothers is a rock in my book. He is an old wolf and has always felt that something was missing. April was missing. Reno is my hero. He saved the book for me. That is why there are 4 Stars instead of 3. Besides anyway you gotta love a bad ass with a gun.
April first appears in Seven Years as Lexi's co-worker. I was on the fence about April. She should have asked for help before going to such extreme measures. I like these two together and the whole will it work human/immortal thing.
What I didn't like was Trevor constantly raining on every parade and what Wheeler pulled wasn't much better.
Ms. Dark is a fantastic writer and I love her books very much. It is an intriguing world that she has created and I can't wait to read more.
Oh I could go crackers with this book.
Why am I mad? Well, I'll tell you.
This. Was. Not. How. The. Book. Was. Supposed. To. End. I mean really Ms. Dark, why would you do that? But I do get that it is an uncovential ending. But it is just wrong. I was waiting for a loophole, I still am to be honest. Hello there is the possibility of a vampire and a mage so what gives?
Reno the oldest of the Cole brothers is a rock in my book. He is an old wolf and has always felt that something was missing. April was missing. Reno is my hero. He saved the book for me. That is why there are 4 Stars instead of 3. Besides anyway you gotta love a bad ass with a gun.
April first appears in Seven Years as Lexi's co-worker. I was on the fence about April. She should have asked for help before going to such extreme measures. I like these two together and the whole will it work human/immortal thing.
What I didn't like was Trevor constantly raining on every parade and what Wheeler pulled wasn't much better.
Ms. Dark is a fantastic writer and I love her books very much. It is an intriguing world that she has created and I can't wait to read more.
April 24, 2014
I just have to get this off my chest while the feelings are still fresh
**SPOILERS** don't ask why I didn't hide it.... I'm feeling open at the moment
I cried :( I mean Reno and April did end up together no doubt. They are really going to be 'living in the moment'. Especially when April will be aging at normal speed and Reno will be aging at really slow shifter speed.
I thought by the end of the book they will have found some kind of loophole so that they could age together... Like what other books usually do.
I mean maybe in future books where their just secondary characters, someone will have found a loophole for them, but right now, no bueno.
That last page really gutted me when April said maybe she will shape Reno into a better man so that he could someday find another woman that is a shifter. Man I can't even bring myself to understand how she's able to live like that.
She's had a pretty crappy life, I mean yeah she'll be able to have at least 2-3 decades of great wonderful life, but then if her theory is correct, maybe she will have to see Reno fall in love with another woman.
Maybe she'll be happy for him, but of course it might kill her inside. UGH I'm probably thinking too much.
I don't want to have to think about thisssss....... I'm hoping that in future books that the pack will manage to find some voodoo magic to make April age slowly like the packs.
On another note, I hope that Maizy will someday get her own book :) Am I the only one who thinks that when she gets older that she might end up with Denver?? eh idk.
**SPOILERS** don't ask why I didn't hide it.... I'm feeling open at the moment
I cried :( I mean Reno and April did end up together no doubt. They are really going to be 'living in the moment'. Especially when April will be aging at normal speed and Reno will be aging at really slow shifter speed.
I thought by the end of the book they will have found some kind of loophole so that they could age together... Like what other books usually do.
I mean maybe in future books where their just secondary characters, someone will have found a loophole for them, but right now, no bueno.
That last page really gutted me when April said maybe she will shape Reno into a better man so that he could someday find another woman that is a shifter. Man I can't even bring myself to understand how she's able to live like that.
She's had a pretty crappy life, I mean yeah she'll be able to have at least 2-3 decades of great wonderful life, but then if her theory is correct, maybe she will have to see Reno fall in love with another woman.
Maybe she'll be happy for him, but of course it might kill her inside. UGH I'm probably thinking too much.
I don't want to have to think about thisssss....... I'm hoping that in future books that the pack will manage to find some voodoo magic to make April age slowly like the packs.
On another note, I hope that Maizy will someday get her own book :) Am I the only one who thinks that when she gets older that she might end up with Denver?? eh idk.
March 30, 2014
3.5 STARS
There was a lot to love about this. It brought back all my favourite characters from Seven Years, i.e. all the Cole boys, but took the spotlight away from the Weston Pack and shone it on someone I hadn’t expected: April Frost, a human. But it didn't blow my mind.
Some readers won't like April as an MC. There were times I really wanted to slap her. For someone who shuns the ‘dumb blonde’ mould, she sure knew how to act fifty shades of stupid. Drowning in debt and being pursued for men by 3 different but equally dangerous men, what does she do? Not turn to her crazy loyal best friend, not her boss who has a legion of strong, protective men at her beck and call and definitely not to the P.I. who is not only in love with her but who offers to help her time and time again. No, she chooses to deal with it herself. Sigh.
The romance was sweet and yeah, swoonworthy enough but it followed the same formula as Seven Years, and even the Mageri series, meaning the happily ever after is pretty much spelt out at the beginning, ruining any plot twists which pull the happy couple apart.
My other gripe is that the plot was hazy at best, again like Dark's previous books. The bad guys float in and out of the plot to force other events to happen but they are always faceless, formless and really don’t incite that much fear into me for the characters.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read and I do foresee myself continuing on in the series but I just hope Dark changes her formula up a little.
There was a lot to love about this. It brought back all my favourite characters from Seven Years, i.e. all the Cole boys, but took the spotlight away from the Weston Pack and shone it on someone I hadn’t expected: April Frost, a human. But it didn't blow my mind.
Some readers won't like April as an MC. There were times I really wanted to slap her. For someone who shuns the ‘dumb blonde’ mould, she sure knew how to act fifty shades of stupid. Drowning in debt and being pursued for men by 3 different but equally dangerous men, what does she do? Not turn to her crazy loyal best friend, not her boss who has a legion of strong, protective men at her beck and call and definitely not to the P.I. who is not only in love with her but who offers to help her time and time again. No, she chooses to deal with it herself. Sigh.
The romance was sweet and yeah, swoonworthy enough but it followed the same formula as Seven Years, and even the Mageri series, meaning the happily ever after is pretty much spelt out at the beginning, ruining any plot twists which pull the happy couple apart.
My other gripe is that the plot was hazy at best, again like Dark's previous books. The bad guys float in and out of the plot to force other events to happen but they are always faceless, formless and really don’t incite that much fear into me for the characters.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read and I do foresee myself continuing on in the series but I just hope Dark changes her formula up a little.
April 10, 2014
Originally posted at:
Oh god...
I couldn't put this book down from the first paragraph I read. It was THAT good. I was also so different from what I've been reading that it was like a breath of fresh air. This story isn't for everyone though. It was heartbreaking, dark, lonely and at certain moments in the story you wanted to bash April's (heroine's) head in because she was being so stubborn and secretive.
I was surprised by how much I learned to like Reno. When I read the first book (my review here) he wasn't one of the memorable brothers for me. I really liked Denny (as Maizy calls him) so I had hoped his story would start up in book 2. I wasn't disappointed though. I think I actually got MORE then I bargained for. Reno is a dark, broken, loving man who was just as lost in life as April was. He was always gentle with April, but when push came to shove, he shoved. Hard.
Generally speaking, I liked April. Though she took too long to open up to Reno and actually get help with all her money related problems, she did have her good moments. She was also TOO self sacrificing and too willing to throw herself out the the wolves (shifter's in this case?) to be healthy. Even though I understood her need to control every aspect of her life, I just didn't see where her need to not ask for help (when she had a bunch of people willing enough) when she was in VERY deep sh*t came from.
The story as a whole was awesome, but I didn't like the almost-not-quite-happily-ever-not-after. Isn't there something that can be done to make that situation have a definitive happily ever after Mrs. Dark?! Please tell me there is...
....
PLEASE!
Favorite Quotes:
"That was why I loved romance novels. The book ends and there's nothing to spoil it. In real life, love isn't about the fairy tale. Love is about not being alone. Sometimes we settle for less because that's all there is."
"I didn't have skeletons in my closet - I had a boneyard."
"You've got my heart. You've got my loyalty. You've got everything a man can give a woman, including my love."
Oh god...
I couldn't put this book down from the first paragraph I read. It was THAT good. I was also so different from what I've been reading that it was like a breath of fresh air. This story isn't for everyone though. It was heartbreaking, dark, lonely and at certain moments in the story you wanted to bash April's (heroine's) head in because she was being so stubborn and secretive.
I was surprised by how much I learned to like Reno. When I read the first book (my review here) he wasn't one of the memorable brothers for me. I really liked Denny (as Maizy calls him) so I had hoped his story would start up in book 2. I wasn't disappointed though. I think I actually got MORE then I bargained for. Reno is a dark, broken, loving man who was just as lost in life as April was. He was always gentle with April, but when push came to shove, he shoved. Hard.
"Because he had integrity and respected rules."
Generally speaking, I liked April. Though she took too long to open up to Reno and actually get help with all her money related problems, she did have her good moments. She was also TOO self sacrificing and too willing to throw herself out the the wolves (shifter's in this case?) to be healthy. Even though I understood her need to control every aspect of her life, I just didn't see where her need to not ask for help (when she had a bunch of people willing enough) when she was in VERY deep sh*t came from.
"People looked at my bright hair and smile and never knew the life I led or the painful past I had survived."
The story as a whole was awesome, but I didn't like the almost-not-quite-happily-ever-not-after. Isn't there something that can be done to make that situation have a definitive happily ever after Mrs. Dark?! Please tell me there is...
....
PLEASE!
Favorite Quotes:
"That was why I loved romance novels. The book ends and there's nothing to spoil it. In real life, love isn't about the fairy tale. Love is about not being alone. Sometimes we settle for less because that's all there is."
"I didn't have skeletons in my closet - I had a boneyard."
"You've got my heart. You've got my loyalty. You've got everything a man can give a woman, including my love."
June 6, 2019
Six Months is book two in the Seven series by Dannika Dark.
After reading the first book in the series I was truly hoping it will get better but April is really hard to love.. There is independent and there is just pure stubbornness.. I did try to understand April all through out the book but all her actions towards everyone is really hard to accept especially with Reno.
What really kept me going was the family dynamics.. How they treated women and children and how proctective they are of each other. Love the Cole brothers 😊
After reading the first book in the series I was truly hoping it will get better but April is really hard to love.. There is independent and there is just pure stubbornness.. I did try to understand April all through out the book but all her actions towards everyone is really hard to accept especially with Reno.
What really kept me going was the family dynamics.. How they treated women and children and how proctective they are of each other. Love the Cole brothers 😊
May 20, 2014
Originally posted at:
Oh god...
I couldn't put this book down from the first paragraph I read. It was THAT good. I was also so different from what I've been reading that it was like a breath of fresh air. This story isn't for everyone though. It was heartbreaking, dark, lonely and at certain moments in the story you wanted to bash April's (heroine's) head in because she was being so stubborn and secretive.
I was surprised by how much I learned to like Reno. When I read the first book (my review here) he wasn't one of the memorable brothers for me. I really liked Denny (as Maizy calls him) so I had hoped his story would start up in book 2. I wasn't disappointed though. I think I actually got MORE then I bargained for. Reno is a dark, broken, loving man who was just as lost in life as April was. He was always gentle with April, but when push came to shove, he shoved. Hard.
Generally speaking, I liked April. Though she took too long to open up to Reno and actually get help with all her money related problems, she did have her good moments. She was also TOO self sacrificing and too willing to throw herself out the the wolves (shifter's in this case?) to be healthy. Even though I understood her need to control every aspect of her life, I just didn't see where her need to not ask for help (when she had a bunch of people willing enough) when she was in VERY deep sh*t came from.
The story as a whole was awesome, but I didn't like the almost-not-quite-happily-ever-not-after. Isn't there something that can be done to make that situation have a definitive happily ever after Mrs. Dark?! Please tell me there is...
....
PLEASE!
Favorite Quotes:
"That was why I loved romance novels. The book ends and there's nothing to spoil it. In real life, love isn't about the fairy tale. Love is about not being alone. Sometimes we settle for less because that's all there is."
"I didn't have skeletons in my closet - I had a boneyard."
"You've got my heart. You've got my loyalty. You've got everything a man can give a woman, including my love."
Oh god...
I couldn't put this book down from the first paragraph I read. It was THAT good. I was also so different from what I've been reading that it was like a breath of fresh air. This story isn't for everyone though. It was heartbreaking, dark, lonely and at certain moments in the story you wanted to bash April's (heroine's) head in because she was being so stubborn and secretive.
I was surprised by how much I learned to like Reno. When I read the first book (my review here) he wasn't one of the memorable brothers for me. I really liked Denny (as Maizy calls him) so I had hoped his story would start up in book 2. I wasn't disappointed though. I think I actually got MORE then I bargained for. Reno is a dark, broken, loving man who was just as lost in life as April was. He was always gentle with April, but when push came to shove, he shoved. Hard.
"Because he had integrity and respected rules."
Generally speaking, I liked April. Though she took too long to open up to Reno and actually get help with all her money related problems, she did have her good moments. She was also TOO self sacrificing and too willing to throw herself out the the wolves (shifter's in this case?) to be healthy. Even though I understood her need to control every aspect of her life, I just didn't see where her need to not ask for help (when she had a bunch of people willing enough) when she was in VERY deep sh*t came from.
"People looked at my bright hair and smile and never knew the life I led or the painful past I had survived."
The story as a whole was awesome, but I didn't like the almost-not-quite-happily-ever-not-after. Isn't there something that can be done to make that situation have a definitive happily ever after Mrs. Dark?! Please tell me there is...
....
PLEASE!
Favorite Quotes:
"That was why I loved romance novels. The book ends and there's nothing to spoil it. In real life, love isn't about the fairy tale. Love is about not being alone. Sometimes we settle for less because that's all there is."
"I didn't have skeletons in my closet - I had a boneyard."
"You've got my heart. You've got my loyalty. You've got everything a man can give a woman, including my love."
December 14, 2014
While Six Months is really well written, I had a lot of trouble understanding the main character April. She has had quite a bit of trouble with loan sharks since her grand-mother died, but instead of discussing this with her friends, she does things in hiding, and ends up in some very bad situations that could have been avoided. She is very close to TSTL syndrome, which made me sad, because I really enjoyed her character in Seven Years!
March 25, 2014
Hitting rock bottom. I think it happens to all of us at some point, for some reason. I don’t think there’s one of us that miss it, not really. It’s just a matter of how deep and how sharp the rocks. And just like we all hit it, I’m pretty sure the same thing brings us out of it, one way or another – Hope.
Six Months is, ultimately, a story about hope. Hope that we can all set down our baggage long enough to let someone in, let someone see us and love us for all the bad and good. Hope that we define ourselves by who we are at our core, not what we’ve experienced. Hope that we can all come back from just about anything.
Reno Cole is an ex-soldier, current PI who knows exactly who he is, even if he’s not entirely sure of exactly what he wants. April Frost is a caretaker extraordinaire who consistently puts everyone else before herself.
Reno is a wolf Shifter. April is human. The two rarely mix for a whole host of reasons, some obvious and some not quite as, but regardless, Reno and April start with a major strike against them from the very start which then just gets infinitely compounded by April’s past, her inherited present and life in general.
When these two come together they immediately revert back to old habits expecting the other to bend, which doesn’t work. So they do the unthinkable for two characters such as themselves – they compromise. And revel in that compromise; showing each other possibility in a way neither ever thought was available. Their relationship is so heart-wrenchingly authentic. Reno has the gift of cutting through every brand of bull shit straight to the heart of the person and he continually peels back April’s layers, one by one, revealing an extraordinary and damaged woman desperate to be loved. They come together in a middle ground they construct around themselves and it’s a glorious thing to watch, even through the pitfalls and stumbles.
Dannika Dark is and will forever be one of my all-time favorite authors because of her ability to create characters who so brilliantly speak to the very best and very worst pieces of human nature. She creates characters that you can wrap your hands around and feel and smell and hear. Characters that sweet talk you into stepping into their skins to walk a lifetime in their shoes and you find yourself just grateful for the opportunity. They’re real and messy and gorgeous in their tangibility.
Is Six Months a paranormal romance book? Yep. But that really is its narrowest definition. It’s a brave and relentless dissection of the concept of hope, populated with characters I’m desperate to keep with me forever, absolutely devoid of judgment but brimming with the very concept it endeavors to investigate. There is wonderfully sweet romance, hot sex scenes, great action scenes and fantastic humor throughout – all of which serve as tremendously delicious frosting to the exquisitely crafted infusion of story and character at its core.
You do NOT want to miss anything this author writes. So please, do yourself a favor and pick this book up. I happily sacrificed a night’s sleep last night to read this book, believe me when I say, you will do the same thing.
Six Months is, ultimately, a story about hope. Hope that we can all set down our baggage long enough to let someone in, let someone see us and love us for all the bad and good. Hope that we define ourselves by who we are at our core, not what we’ve experienced. Hope that we can all come back from just about anything.
Reno Cole is an ex-soldier, current PI who knows exactly who he is, even if he’s not entirely sure of exactly what he wants. April Frost is a caretaker extraordinaire who consistently puts everyone else before herself.
Reno is a wolf Shifter. April is human. The two rarely mix for a whole host of reasons, some obvious and some not quite as, but regardless, Reno and April start with a major strike against them from the very start which then just gets infinitely compounded by April’s past, her inherited present and life in general.
When these two come together they immediately revert back to old habits expecting the other to bend, which doesn’t work. So they do the unthinkable for two characters such as themselves – they compromise. And revel in that compromise; showing each other possibility in a way neither ever thought was available. Their relationship is so heart-wrenchingly authentic. Reno has the gift of cutting through every brand of bull shit straight to the heart of the person and he continually peels back April’s layers, one by one, revealing an extraordinary and damaged woman desperate to be loved. They come together in a middle ground they construct around themselves and it’s a glorious thing to watch, even through the pitfalls and stumbles.
Dannika Dark is and will forever be one of my all-time favorite authors because of her ability to create characters who so brilliantly speak to the very best and very worst pieces of human nature. She creates characters that you can wrap your hands around and feel and smell and hear. Characters that sweet talk you into stepping into their skins to walk a lifetime in their shoes and you find yourself just grateful for the opportunity. They’re real and messy and gorgeous in their tangibility.
Is Six Months a paranormal romance book? Yep. But that really is its narrowest definition. It’s a brave and relentless dissection of the concept of hope, populated with characters I’m desperate to keep with me forever, absolutely devoid of judgment but brimming with the very concept it endeavors to investigate. There is wonderfully sweet romance, hot sex scenes, great action scenes and fantastic humor throughout – all of which serve as tremendously delicious frosting to the exquisitely crafted infusion of story and character at its core.
You do NOT want to miss anything this author writes. So please, do yourself a favor and pick this book up. I happily sacrificed a night’s sleep last night to read this book, believe me when I say, you will do the same thing.
February 18, 2018
Man, I’m conflicted.... I love the story but, once again, I’m having trouble with the characters - well, just one in this instance, April. But first, the good stuff - Reno. He was AMAZING! I was intrigued with him in book one so was really anxious to read his story (and very happy it came in book two.). He did not disappoint! In fact, he was even better than I imagined. Throughout this story, he was absolutely everything one would dream of in a hero. So much so that it was hard to read what he continually went through with April.
SO... April, *sigh*. What a mess! She begins the book making poor decisions and never learns! Rather than grow from her mistakes, she just keeps making them and they get worse and worse. This becomes completely undefendable when she knows there are people who love her, would have her back and are begging to help her! Stubborn and independent become bullheaded and just plain stupid very quickly. If we could have seen her grow and learn to trust through the book, it would have been a truly rich read. Unfortunately, it grew worse until I was ready to throw the book at the wall with her last choice and betrayal of the love Reno offered.
Because of that, the sudden resolution and declaration at the very end was a disappointment. It felt like Reno was settling for something much less than he deserved.
SO... April, *sigh*. What a mess! She begins the book making poor decisions and never learns! Rather than grow from her mistakes, she just keeps making them and they get worse and worse. This becomes completely undefendable when she knows there are people who love her, would have her back and are begging to help her! Stubborn and independent become bullheaded and just plain stupid very quickly. If we could have seen her grow and learn to trust through the book, it would have been a truly rich read. Unfortunately, it grew worse until I was ready to throw the book at the wall with her last choice and betrayal of the love Reno offered.
Because of that, the sudden resolution and declaration at the very end was a disappointment. It felt like Reno was settling for something much less than he deserved.
September 4, 2014
WOW! I have a new vice. I really enjoyed the first book but this one was even better. I absolutely love the chemistry that is developing with the characters. Some reviews of the first book complained of a lack of character development but I think it's plain to see that as the series continues a little more is revealed about the characters with each book. I can see where things are being set up for future books.
I loved the balance of humor, action, steaminess and just plain old every day life. I would love to step right into this book and be a part of it!
The loyalty and friendship between the characters is amazing. I love how Denver is so protective of Mazie. Makes me melt to think of a big strong man making over that little girl. (Totally NOT in a creepy way).
Fell in love with Reno in this book. What a hottie. Can't wait for the next book. In the mean time, I will definitely re-read book one and two and start on the Mageri series. Dannika...you have a new devoted fan.
I loved the balance of humor, action, steaminess and just plain old every day life. I would love to step right into this book and be a part of it!
The loyalty and friendship between the characters is amazing. I love how Denver is so protective of Mazie. Makes me melt to think of a big strong man making over that little girl. (Totally NOT in a creepy way).
Fell in love with Reno in this book. What a hottie. Can't wait for the next book. In the mean time, I will definitely re-read book one and two and start on the Mageri series. Dannika...you have a new devoted fan.
June 24, 2014
I dont know what to say, this was an amazing book and just as good as the first one. I laughed, I cried, and I loved very second of it. I couldnt put this one down. I can not wait for Five Weeks to come out as I just know it will be just as amazing as the first two books in this series. These are a must read. I highly recommend, you wont be disappointed.
March 25, 2014
Loved it!
Loved it but 7 years was still the best ;) I hope we get to read a book about maizey and Denver!
Loved it but 7 years was still the best ;) I hope we get to read a book about maizey and Denver!
December 27, 2014
Ah well, can't win them all...
I'm certain I enjoyed the first book? Hate when I can't remember...damn book brain farts!
This one can be summed up in one word: monotonous.
I'm certain I enjoyed the first book? Hate when I can't remember...damn book brain farts!
This one can be summed up in one word: monotonous.
August 29, 2014
4.5 stars!!
Looking forward to the rest of the books in this series!!
Looking forward to the rest of the books in this series!!
March 10, 2018
Dark
I did not expect this story to be so dark. April seems like such an upbeat person, but wow, she is dealing with some really heavy problems. In spite of that she is a good person even if she makes some crazy mistakes. I can understand why she doesn't want to let Reno in since she tries to take care of things by herself. Still, going to see a loan shark by herself at night is beyond stupid. I get that she is young, but that is beyond insanely dumb. I loved the chemistry between April and Reno as well as learning more about the pack. I liked the twist with Trevor too and I hope there is more of him in the next books.
I did not expect this story to be so dark. April seems like such an upbeat person, but wow, she is dealing with some really heavy problems. In spite of that she is a good person even if she makes some crazy mistakes. I can understand why she doesn't want to let Reno in since she tries to take care of things by herself. Still, going to see a loan shark by herself at night is beyond stupid. I get that she is young, but that is beyond insanely dumb. I loved the chemistry between April and Reno as well as learning more about the pack. I liked the twist with Trevor too and I hope there is more of him in the next books.
March 19, 2018
Read March 2018:
Reread. I enjoyed the book but it took me a while longer to get through because one it's a reread but also April can get somewhat annoying. It drove me nuts she wouldn't reach out for help. Also her friend Trevor pisses me off. He sounds like a know it all and his "protectiveness" was borderline douchebag doesn't want her to have a life without him territory. Trevor is her BFF but he wasn't very friend like. He constantly rags on April. I also didn't like how everyone jumped down Aprils throat about what she did. not that the circumstances make up for what she did, but I think it would have prevented a lot of the strain that resulted from it.
Overall still a good book but it is a HFN because
_______________
Original Review
Ugh a new couple.......
Now that I know it's a different couple each book I can accept that.
It was interesting getting to know April, I just wished she wasn't so.....proud to ask for help. Some of her issues while understandable were also annoying. Getting to know Reno was really nice he isn't as hard on the inside as his outside appears as well. I thought it was insane that April's grandmother'so debt went over to her I found that especially irritating. Definitely looking forward to the rest of the series.
Reread. I enjoyed the book but it took me a while longer to get through because one it's a reread but also April can get somewhat annoying. It drove me nuts she wouldn't reach out for help. Also her friend Trevor pisses me off. He sounds like a know it all and his "protectiveness" was borderline douchebag doesn't want her to have a life without him territory. Trevor is her BFF but he wasn't very friend like. He constantly rags on April. I also didn't like how everyone jumped down Aprils throat about what she did. not that the circumstances make up for what she did, but I think it would have prevented a lot of the strain that resulted from it.
Overall still a good book but it is a HFN because
_______________
Original Review
Ugh a new couple.......
Now that I know it's a different couple each book I can accept that.
It was interesting getting to know April, I just wished she wasn't so.....proud to ask for help. Some of her issues while understandable were also annoying. Getting to know Reno was really nice he isn't as hard on the inside as his outside appears as well. I thought it was insane that April's grandmother'so debt went over to her I found that especially irritating. Definitely looking forward to the rest of the series.
March 13, 2023
3.9.23: Re-listening to this awesome series!
Title: Six Months, book two in the "Seven" series (featuring shape-shifting).
Author: Dannika Dark
Published: March, 2014
Read (listened to audiobook via www.audible.com per iPhone 6): September 23-29, 2015.
Narrated by: Nicole Poole (Definitely would rate the narration at a solid 4 stars, I believe). :-)
Keywords/genre information: fiction, adult fiction, paranormal, paranormal mystery, shape shifter: Wolfpack, (references to other species), romance (some steam! Woohoo!), alpha male(s); some strong language, but not distracting at all; a couple tenser scenes that MAY be potential triggers; sexual situations/adult themes.
My (GoodReads "1-5 stars" scale) rating: 4.5 "I binge listened at an obsessive level" stars! Lol.
Brief (for now) remarks:
I say "obsessive", but that's a little overboard maaaayyyyybeeee though I REALLY loved listening to this as much as I could! Seriously, what a GREAT, intense, emotional roller coaster of a real feeling story! Freaking loved it!
I owe it to Ms. Dark to give this a GOOD, detailed review when I've more time. Seriously, this series is rockin', friends.
I do feel that SO FAR, the series seems like it could stand alone (just read one or two of the books) or not, but read it in order if you choose to go with the whole series, IMO.
I'll try to do this review the more detailed justice it deserves SOON!
Cheers!
Lisa (@NurseLisainOhio)
Title: Six Months, book two in the "Seven" series (featuring shape-shifting).
Author: Dannika Dark
Published: March, 2014
Read (listened to audiobook via www.audible.com per iPhone 6): September 23-29, 2015.
Narrated by: Nicole Poole (Definitely would rate the narration at a solid 4 stars, I believe). :-)
Keywords/genre information: fiction, adult fiction, paranormal, paranormal mystery, shape shifter: Wolfpack, (references to other species), romance (some steam! Woohoo!), alpha male(s); some strong language, but not distracting at all; a couple tenser scenes that MAY be potential triggers; sexual situations/adult themes.
My (GoodReads "1-5 stars" scale) rating: 4.5 "I binge listened at an obsessive level" stars! Lol.
Brief (for now) remarks:
I say "obsessive", but that's a little overboard maaaayyyyybeeee though I REALLY loved listening to this as much as I could! Seriously, what a GREAT, intense, emotional roller coaster of a real feeling story! Freaking loved it!
I owe it to Ms. Dark to give this a GOOD, detailed review when I've more time. Seriously, this series is rockin', friends.
I do feel that SO FAR, the series seems like it could stand alone (just read one or two of the books) or not, but read it in order if you choose to go with the whole series, IMO.
I'll try to do this review the more detailed justice it deserves SOON!
Cheers!
Lisa (@NurseLisainOhio)
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