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Laid Bear #1
Shifter Romance Boxed Set
LAID BEAR by Marina Curvy Bethany can't believe her luck when her devastatingly hot neighbor Max falls for her. But his secret threatens her future...and her life.
BEARED TO YOU by Tawny Curvy city girl Abby is thrilled when a hot, naked man shows up on her cabin's front doorstep and stokes a blaze or two, in the fireplace and in her body...until he turns into a bear...and the two of them are forced to run for their lives through the untamed Alaskan wilderness.
HE AIN'T LION by Celia Life sucks... And then you get turned into a werelion... And then have lotsa awesome sex...
WHATEVER HE NEEDS HER TO BE by Elixa What would you do to win over the man of your dreams? For shapeshifter Selena, it's simply a matter of being whatever he needs her to be.
WANTED BY THE ALPHAS by Dawn New girl in a new town, Shannon, meets two extremely gorgeous and extremely different men who are vying for her attention -- but who happen to be a witch and an alpha werewolf at war with each other.
BLIND WOLF by Aubrey A blind werewolf leading a pack of stragglers finally finds his one true mate -- then realizes she's human...
UNTIL THE FLOOD by Cynthia Fiona believes the love of her life died years ago, so how will she handle his return...and the fact that he's no longer human?
DESIRES OF THE WOLFMAN by Julianne A newlywed couple faces their deepest fantasies and fears as they're thrust from their little rural community into a world of werewolf turmoil and mystery.
CAT LOVER (Book 1) by Selena Sebastian and Katie are having relationship issues when her ex shows up to complicate things, but that's the least of their worries, because Katie is finally changing--into something not quite human.
BETTER MATE THAN NEVER by Adriana Caleb Stone has wanted Paige for as long as he can remember but there's a reason he's always kept his distance. Wolves, more specifically, Lycan's, can't mate with humans. Worse, he can sense her incredibly intense hunger for him but he knows that he can never give her what she wants, or needs.But when Paige is kidnapped by a powerful enemy Caleb has no choice but to go after her even if it means revealing his true identity...even if means risking it all.
LUCAS by Eliza An uneasy alliance, a mating call that won't be denied, rituals that must be honored, and unrelenting enemies who will stop at nothing to get what they want. In the end, there's really only one choice... for Lucas.
BEARED TO YOU by Tawny Curvy city girl Abby is thrilled when a hot, naked man shows up on her cabin's front doorstep and stokes a blaze or two, in the fireplace and in her body...until he turns into a bear...and the two of them are forced to run for their lives through the untamed Alaskan wilderness.
HE AIN'T LION by Celia Life sucks... And then you get turned into a werelion... And then have lotsa awesome sex...
WHATEVER HE NEEDS HER TO BE by Elixa What would you do to win over the man of your dreams? For shapeshifter Selena, it's simply a matter of being whatever he needs her to be.
WANTED BY THE ALPHAS by Dawn New girl in a new town, Shannon, meets two extremely gorgeous and extremely different men who are vying for her attention -- but who happen to be a witch and an alpha werewolf at war with each other.
BLIND WOLF by Aubrey A blind werewolf leading a pack of stragglers finally finds his one true mate -- then realizes she's human...
UNTIL THE FLOOD by Cynthia Fiona believes the love of her life died years ago, so how will she handle his return...and the fact that he's no longer human?
DESIRES OF THE WOLFMAN by Julianne A newlywed couple faces their deepest fantasies and fears as they're thrust from their little rural community into a world of werewolf turmoil and mystery.
CAT LOVER (Book 1) by Selena Sebastian and Katie are having relationship issues when her ex shows up to complicate things, but that's the least of their worries, because Katie is finally changing--into something not quite human.
BETTER MATE THAN NEVER by Adriana Caleb Stone has wanted Paige for as long as he can remember but there's a reason he's always kept his distance. Wolves, more specifically, Lycan's, can't mate with humans. Worse, he can sense her incredibly intense hunger for him but he knows that he can never give her what she wants, or needs.But when Paige is kidnapped by a powerful enemy Caleb has no choice but to go after her even if it means revealing his true identity...even if means risking it all.
LUCAS by Eliza An uneasy alliance, a mating call that won't be denied, rituals that must be honored, and unrelenting enemies who will stop at nothing to get what they want. In the end, there's really only one choice... for Lucas.
800 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2013
24 people are currently reading
522 people want to read
About the author
Marina Maddix
70 books354 followersMarina Maddix is a romantic at heart, but hates closing the bedroom door on her readers. Her stories are sweet, with just enough spice to make your mother blush. She lives with her husband, cats and chickens near the Rocky Mountains, and loves to hear from her fans.
Subscribe to her mailing list at http://list.marinamaddix.com or connect with her at marina@marinamaddix.com, @marinamaddix on Instagram, or on Facebook at www.fb.me/authormarinamaddix.
Subscribe to her mailing list at http://list.marinamaddix.com or connect with her at marina@marinamaddix.com, @marinamaddix on Instagram, or on Facebook at www.fb.me/authormarinamaddix.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
July 23, 2016
For a 99¢ I say go for it. One or two of the books were really enjoyable. However, this collection is clearly quantity over quality. I wouldn't have finished a few of the books if I weren't reviewing an ARC of the collection. There were Shifter Bears, Cougars, People, Lions, Rabbits, and Housecats… So there is certainly a lot of variety to choose from.
I started to get the feeling that this was a grab bag of "firsts" as in, the first book in a series and the collection was compiled under the assumption that readers will fall in love with one or more books and continue the series. Unfortunately, I didn't fall in love with any of them. The collection ranged from Good, to Mediocre, to Downright Awful.
The Good:
He Ain't Lion (Laugh out loud funny)
Whatever He Needs Her To Be (Original premise)
Wanted By The Alphas (Complex and full of weirdness)
Lucas (Sexy and fast-paced)
The Mediocre:
Laid Bear (Forgettable but not terrible)
BEARed to You (I liked the shifter origin story)
Blind Wolf (main characters were twits)
Until the Flood (Angsty NewAdult / Young Adult)
Cat Lover (Pretty sure that was Furry Erotica…)
Better Mate Than Never (Amusing but formulaic)
The Downright Awful:
Desires of the Wolfman (Just… Skip this one…)
When I review anthologies, I like to write up individual reviews for each of the books and then base my rating on the overall impression of the collection. Especially considering this set features eleven individual authors with distinct styles and writing quality. You can find links to the full reviews for each book below the blurbs I've written.
Marina Maddix - Laid Bear - It was a quick read, your standard M/F Paranormal shape-shifter romance, but with BEARS. It was nice, but ultimately it was nothing special...
You can find my full review here
Tawny Taylor - BEARed to You - More BEARS! I really liked the fresh explanation of how Tarik Evert became a WereBear. There were several steamy sex scenes and some lovely pillow talk, but other than that it was kind of a bust...
You can find my full review here
Celia Kyle - He Ain't Lion - This was an unapologetic hilarious read. It was sexy and silly and never took itself seriously. There was rude language, WereLions, tons of sex, and one seriously sassy plus-sized woman. You can find my full review
here
Elixa Everett - Whatever He Needs Her To Be - A promising storyline completely ruined by the writing. Disappointing. I really wanted to like this book because the premise was fresh and intriguing, but I wound up completely unsatisfied.
You can find my full review here
Dawn Steele - Wanted By The Alphas - I thought this book was a vast improvement on the previous books in the set, in both plot and prose. We had Witches, Were-Panthers, Drug Cartels, Were-Wolves, Love Triangles, Fights to the Death, a brief trip to the after life for one of the characters, and one of the most baffling endings I've ever read.
You can find my full review here
Aubrey Rose - Blind Wolf - This was a sweet little BBW romance between a shy librarian and a blind WereWolf. It was cute, even if it was a little angsty at times. A merry band of misfits.
You can find my full review here
Cynthia Brint - Until the Flood - This was a rather huge departure form other books in the set because it was heavy in the YA/NA genre while others had been firmly Erotica. The story was cute enough, young love and all that…
You can find my full review here
Julianne Reyer - Desires of the Wolfman - I really didn't like this book. It was actually severall little novellas crammed together, but I was ready to carve my eyeballs out with a spoon by the time it was over.
You can find my full review here
Selena Kitt - Cat Lover (Sorry, this book is not listed on GoodReads) - Told from the boyfriend's perspective, this was a twisted tale of watching his girlfriend slowly become possessed by the Egyptian Cat Goddess Bast.
Adriana Hunter - Better Mate Than Never - I enjoyed this short story. It was a sweet little "I want you but I can't have you" story between an Alpha-Male Werewolf and a curvaceous redheaded lawyer.
You can find my full review here
Eliza Gayle - Lucas - The final book in this boxed set really surprised me when I was becoming fatigued by the Shifter Genre. It had a lot of action, some suspense, and some great dirty talk. Overall, Lucas was a decent "forbidden mates" style of Shifter Romance.
You can find my full review here
***I received an ARC of this collection in exchange for an honest review***
I started to get the feeling that this was a grab bag of "firsts" as in, the first book in a series and the collection was compiled under the assumption that readers will fall in love with one or more books and continue the series. Unfortunately, I didn't fall in love with any of them. The collection ranged from Good, to Mediocre, to Downright Awful.
The Good:
He Ain't Lion (Laugh out loud funny)
Whatever He Needs Her To Be (Original premise)
Wanted By The Alphas (Complex and full of weirdness)
Lucas (Sexy and fast-paced)
The Mediocre:
Laid Bear (Forgettable but not terrible)
BEARed to You (I liked the shifter origin story)
Blind Wolf (main characters were twits)
Until the Flood (Angsty NewAdult / Young Adult)
Cat Lover (Pretty sure that was Furry Erotica…)
Better Mate Than Never (Amusing but formulaic)
The Downright Awful:
Desires of the Wolfman (Just… Skip this one…)
When I review anthologies, I like to write up individual reviews for each of the books and then base my rating on the overall impression of the collection. Especially considering this set features eleven individual authors with distinct styles and writing quality. You can find links to the full reviews for each book below the blurbs I've written.
Marina Maddix - Laid Bear - It was a quick read, your standard M/F Paranormal shape-shifter romance, but with BEARS. It was nice, but ultimately it was nothing special...
You can find my full review here
Tawny Taylor - BEARed to You - More BEARS! I really liked the fresh explanation of how Tarik Evert became a WereBear. There were several steamy sex scenes and some lovely pillow talk, but other than that it was kind of a bust...
You can find my full review here
Celia Kyle - He Ain't Lion - This was an unapologetic hilarious read. It was sexy and silly and never took itself seriously. There was rude language, WereLions, tons of sex, and one seriously sassy plus-sized woman. You can find my full review
here
Elixa Everett - Whatever He Needs Her To Be - A promising storyline completely ruined by the writing. Disappointing. I really wanted to like this book because the premise was fresh and intriguing, but I wound up completely unsatisfied.
You can find my full review here
Dawn Steele - Wanted By The Alphas - I thought this book was a vast improvement on the previous books in the set, in both plot and prose. We had Witches, Were-Panthers, Drug Cartels, Were-Wolves, Love Triangles, Fights to the Death, a brief trip to the after life for one of the characters, and one of the most baffling endings I've ever read.
You can find my full review here
Aubrey Rose - Blind Wolf - This was a sweet little BBW romance between a shy librarian and a blind WereWolf. It was cute, even if it was a little angsty at times. A merry band of misfits.
You can find my full review here
Cynthia Brint - Until the Flood - This was a rather huge departure form other books in the set because it was heavy in the YA/NA genre while others had been firmly Erotica. The story was cute enough, young love and all that…
You can find my full review here
Julianne Reyer - Desires of the Wolfman - I really didn't like this book. It was actually severall little novellas crammed together, but I was ready to carve my eyeballs out with a spoon by the time it was over.
You can find my full review here
Selena Kitt - Cat Lover (Sorry, this book is not listed on GoodReads) - Told from the boyfriend's perspective, this was a twisted tale of watching his girlfriend slowly become possessed by the Egyptian Cat Goddess Bast.
Adriana Hunter - Better Mate Than Never - I enjoyed this short story. It was a sweet little "I want you but I can't have you" story between an Alpha-Male Werewolf and a curvaceous redheaded lawyer.
You can find my full review here
Eliza Gayle - Lucas - The final book in this boxed set really surprised me when I was becoming fatigued by the Shifter Genre. It had a lot of action, some suspense, and some great dirty talk. Overall, Lucas was a decent "forbidden mates" style of Shifter Romance.
You can find my full review here
***I received an ARC of this collection in exchange for an honest review***
September 8, 2016
Some are 1 star/unfinishable (yes that's a word...what?) maybe one or two were 3 & 1/2. Being pretty generous to give whole set a 3...but they are fun (albeit silly) reads for the most part. I could have rated these separately but honestly don't want those covers and titles showing up on my list... If you want shifter romance done well go check out Molly Harper Naked Werewolf books. For sweet PG13 versions check out Maggie Stiefvater's Shiver series. For outrageously unbelievable animal genetic experimentation complete with the no holds barred racy racy scenes (but no shifting) check out Lora Leigh's Breeds series.;)
December 13, 2013
All I can say is, Wow... My favorite authors didn't let me down. The new one's have gain a new fan. Most of the books, you must be prepared for the sequel. The only thing I disliked is that, I for one like to continue reading a series in order. Having to complete the boxed set before I continue on kinds of throws me. Maybe it's just me. :P
May 5, 2017
Bof! Hot romance??? J'ai lu mieux. Si on classe, le "hot" en cote de "x", j'en donne un seul et petit.
March 2, 2015
love all the awesome story
February 23, 2014
LAID BEAR:
This was a really quick read about Bethany, a girl with relatively low self esteem who falls head over heels in lust with her new neighbor Max. Drawn to each other as if my magic (or mating instinct), they connect and there's tons of fireworks. Throw in the fact that he's a werebear and you've got yourself a solid paranormal romance read. There are your typical misunderstandings, self sacrificing behavior, and ultimately a HEA. This read was mostly a love story, with a little smut and action thrown in for good measure. 3 stars.
BEARED TO YOU:
This was another bear shifter story, but instead of being more focused on the romance elements, this definitely veered into erotica territory (not that I'm complaining!). The sex scenes were sizzling and the chemistry between Abby and the man who shows up naked on her doorstep was through the roof. This book had a slightly more sci-fi take on your typical shifter story, so was unique in that respect. The danger that Abby finds herself in due to her new connection to the Omega corporation forces her to open up and face the fact that she might actually care for someone. This was a fun and sexy read. 3 stars.
HE AIN'T LION:
Wow, my favorite so far! I'm immediately adding Celia Kyle to my favorite authors list! This story was about a woman who decides on a one-night stand in a lion shifter party that turns into so much more than that. The writing style was fun and realistically gritty. The level of erotica and story was perfect! While the story itself was short, it was addictive enough to get me to read it in one sitting. 4 stars
WHATEVER HE NEEDS HER TO BE:
Selena is a shifter in the sense that she can change her entire body appearance, but not turn into an animal. Using this skill to make herself into the perfect escort, she's now a rather wealthy woman. Anthony, her date for one evening, however, throws a kink into her plans when he makes her wish for more. She's desperate to prove that he'll love her for who she is, not who he "ordered" through her service. It was a good, quick read. 3 stars.
WANTED BY THE ALPHAS:
A brother/sister (sort of) team of somewhat paranormals enter a new town under some questionable terms. This town has witches and shapeshifters lurking around every corner. Shannon ends up being romanced by the two most alpha members of the town. This, of course, ends with lots of drama, but ultimately gives a sort of HEA. 3 stars.
BLIND WOLF:
This is the first book in a series that shows some real promise. I can't say I've ever read a book about a blind werewolf before. Julia is a librarian who has some pretty big self doubts. Damien is a blind werewolf who is shocked to find that his mate is a human. The sparks fly and we get a unique take on the whole "mate" thing with a "calling" that shares each others emotions and feelings. I hope the main character starts to get more assertive in the future installments, but this was a great start. 3 stars.
UNTIL THE FLOOD:
Brandon and Fiona are adorable teen sweethearts. One day, while hiking (at night) they see the dam breaking in their town -- that's when this story takes a turn towards something darker. Brandon saves Fiona, only to wash away in the flood that wipes out the town and most of the inhabitants. While at college, she swears she sees Brandon return, but is he real? Is he the same? Obviously it involves a shifter and was pretty short, but the adorableness made up for it. 3 stars.
DESIRES OF THE WOLFMAN:
Lacey is newly married to Mark, a scientist who was involved in an unfortunate lab accident that changes him. Turn out, hiding this information from him because the sex is so hot ends up changing her too. There is a lot of smut, the story involves government conspiracies, and there's a bit of swapping and M/F/M. It was definitely a new spin on the old werewolf story. 3 stars
CAT LOVER:
A cat lover and her boyfriend go through some pretty big changes together. He gets offered a job in Italy. She starts to become a cat. In this story we learn that some guys are willing to overlook their girlfriend becoming a cat (and living with 15 cats in a basement apartment) if the sex is hot enough. 3 stars
BETTER MATE THAN NEVER:
Paige and Caleb have known enough other since high school and have never acted on their attraction. After running into each other on the job, they decide to take the plunge. Unfortunately, Caleb has been doing more than just spying on her. He's also been hiding the fact that he's a high ranking shifter, which puts Paige in a bit of trouble. This was a solid read, with some good steamy scenes. 4 stars
LUCAS:
This was a Romeo and Juliet story about a cougar shifter and a psychic who are forbidden to mate with one another, but we are driven mad if they don't. Lucas finds him self trapped in a cell with only his dreamwalking mate to keep him company. Kira is trying to fight fate, but can't resist rescuing Lucas from his prison. Together they sizzle and explode, filling the pages of this story with some pretty hot action. It left me wanting to know more about this world and curious about the rest of the series. 4 stars
This was a really quick read about Bethany, a girl with relatively low self esteem who falls head over heels in lust with her new neighbor Max. Drawn to each other as if my magic (or mating instinct), they connect and there's tons of fireworks. Throw in the fact that he's a werebear and you've got yourself a solid paranormal romance read. There are your typical misunderstandings, self sacrificing behavior, and ultimately a HEA. This read was mostly a love story, with a little smut and action thrown in for good measure. 3 stars.
BEARED TO YOU:
This was another bear shifter story, but instead of being more focused on the romance elements, this definitely veered into erotica territory (not that I'm complaining!). The sex scenes were sizzling and the chemistry between Abby and the man who shows up naked on her doorstep was through the roof. This book had a slightly more sci-fi take on your typical shifter story, so was unique in that respect. The danger that Abby finds herself in due to her new connection to the Omega corporation forces her to open up and face the fact that she might actually care for someone. This was a fun and sexy read. 3 stars.
HE AIN'T LION:
Wow, my favorite so far! I'm immediately adding Celia Kyle to my favorite authors list! This story was about a woman who decides on a one-night stand in a lion shifter party that turns into so much more than that. The writing style was fun and realistically gritty. The level of erotica and story was perfect! While the story itself was short, it was addictive enough to get me to read it in one sitting. 4 stars
WHATEVER HE NEEDS HER TO BE:
Selena is a shifter in the sense that she can change her entire body appearance, but not turn into an animal. Using this skill to make herself into the perfect escort, she's now a rather wealthy woman. Anthony, her date for one evening, however, throws a kink into her plans when he makes her wish for more. She's desperate to prove that he'll love her for who she is, not who he "ordered" through her service. It was a good, quick read. 3 stars.
WANTED BY THE ALPHAS:
A brother/sister (sort of) team of somewhat paranormals enter a new town under some questionable terms. This town has witches and shapeshifters lurking around every corner. Shannon ends up being romanced by the two most alpha members of the town. This, of course, ends with lots of drama, but ultimately gives a sort of HEA. 3 stars.
BLIND WOLF:
This is the first book in a series that shows some real promise. I can't say I've ever read a book about a blind werewolf before. Julia is a librarian who has some pretty big self doubts. Damien is a blind werewolf who is shocked to find that his mate is a human. The sparks fly and we get a unique take on the whole "mate" thing with a "calling" that shares each others emotions and feelings. I hope the main character starts to get more assertive in the future installments, but this was a great start. 3 stars.
UNTIL THE FLOOD:
Brandon and Fiona are adorable teen sweethearts. One day, while hiking (at night) they see the dam breaking in their town -- that's when this story takes a turn towards something darker. Brandon saves Fiona, only to wash away in the flood that wipes out the town and most of the inhabitants. While at college, she swears she sees Brandon return, but is he real? Is he the same? Obviously it involves a shifter and was pretty short, but the adorableness made up for it. 3 stars.
DESIRES OF THE WOLFMAN:
Lacey is newly married to Mark, a scientist who was involved in an unfortunate lab accident that changes him. Turn out, hiding this information from him because the sex is so hot ends up changing her too. There is a lot of smut, the story involves government conspiracies, and there's a bit of swapping and M/F/M. It was definitely a new spin on the old werewolf story. 3 stars
CAT LOVER:
A cat lover and her boyfriend go through some pretty big changes together. He gets offered a job in Italy. She starts to become a cat. In this story we learn that some guys are willing to overlook their girlfriend becoming a cat (and living with 15 cats in a basement apartment) if the sex is hot enough. 3 stars
BETTER MATE THAN NEVER:
Paige and Caleb have known enough other since high school and have never acted on their attraction. After running into each other on the job, they decide to take the plunge. Unfortunately, Caleb has been doing more than just spying on her. He's also been hiding the fact that he's a high ranking shifter, which puts Paige in a bit of trouble. This was a solid read, with some good steamy scenes. 4 stars
LUCAS:
This was a Romeo and Juliet story about a cougar shifter and a psychic who are forbidden to mate with one another, but we are driven mad if they don't. Lucas finds him self trapped in a cell with only his dreamwalking mate to keep him company. Kira is trying to fight fate, but can't resist rescuing Lucas from his prison. Together they sizzle and explode, filling the pages of this story with some pretty hot action. It left me wanting to know more about this world and curious about the rest of the series. 4 stars
January 1, 2022
1. Boring.
2. Annoying.
3. It was all about the human female wanting some. A big fat no to that read!
4. Too much sex, no story! Boring!
5. Weird and boring.
Nope, I give up!
2. Annoying.
3. It was all about the human female wanting some. A big fat no to that read!
4. Too much sex, no story! Boring!
5. Weird and boring.
Nope, I give up!
March 23, 2023
This is all over the place. While most are hot they are not well written or up to what I would normally expect from these writers. One or two I loved but they couldn't save this train wreck.
November 2, 2013
If you're a fan of shifters, or this is your first read, you can't miss with this giant set of 11 books by amazing authors.
For fans of shifter stories, know going into this bundle that each of these books is unique. They are not "the same story" re-told by different authors with different names/locations/etc. It's a great variety of characters, plot, and voice that you cannot miss out on.
I would love to write reviews of all 11 books, but that would make this incredibly long - so here's just a few! (spoiler free, I swear)
Laid Bear - Marina Maddox - An amazing story of a werebear who falls for a human against the conformities of his community. A statement of inter-ethnic (? I'm not sure if it's ethnic but that's the word I'm going with!) dynamics is handled along with other topics of relevance to new real-life relationships - but it doesn't make the story feel "heavy." There are tons of light and funny moments. The heroine has a great backbone, though has a self-image problem (and is self-aware enough to know it) and is heartened to see the hero have his own uncertain moments too. Two very "real" feeling characters have you pulling for them in a can't-put-down story with friends you laugh right along with.
Wanted by the Alphas - Dawn Steele - A brother and sister, unlikely pair to say the least, move to a new town in the Pacific Northwest to start over and reclaim their lives and find strangeness abounds. Sound intriguing? Oh that's only the start. The voice in this one is entirely unique. The storyline, not at all what I expected (and I've read more than my share of "paranormal romance" books of all flavors) and I loved it exactly for that reason. If it could keep a veteran like me wondering "how is she going to write herself out of *this*??" you know it was one for the "must read again" shelf. There's precious little I can say without giving spoilers here, so I will simply say, as a veteran, I highly recommend all fans of diverse paranormal pick this one up.
He Ain't Lion - Celia Kyle - Saved the favorite for last. The first in the Ridgeville series, this book is hands down one of my favorite books by Ms. Kyle. We get introduced to Ridgeville (and the whole pride? pack?...er... well... Ridgeville - it's a very special place, let's just go with that!), Maya Josephs, and Alex O'Connell - and oh does the fur fly! I have to say I adore Ms. Kyle and her very spunky heroines. I first fell in love with Maya and her "Maya'isms". Maya speaks her mind, does not back down, and is really empowering as a woman and a friend. You cannot read a Ridgeville series book and not walk away feeling a little stronger, having laughed a little more, thanks to Maya. And Alex - oh he's all things we love in an alpha, and then some. Sexy, strong, protective, and trips all over himself when he has to deal with Maya! Yes, there's a mess with Maya (oh, there generally is in Ridgeville, but honestly, it's rarely her fault... ok, it's SOMETIMES her fault but it's always with a good "Maya meant" reason!) but Alex and his guys are there, so is Maya's best friend, Carly, and somehow, life will go on. So will the Ridgeville series... and I highly recommend you pick them up.
For fans of shifter stories, know going into this bundle that each of these books is unique. They are not "the same story" re-told by different authors with different names/locations/etc. It's a great variety of characters, plot, and voice that you cannot miss out on.
I would love to write reviews of all 11 books, but that would make this incredibly long - so here's just a few! (spoiler free, I swear)
Laid Bear - Marina Maddox - An amazing story of a werebear who falls for a human against the conformities of his community. A statement of inter-ethnic (? I'm not sure if it's ethnic but that's the word I'm going with!) dynamics is handled along with other topics of relevance to new real-life relationships - but it doesn't make the story feel "heavy." There are tons of light and funny moments. The heroine has a great backbone, though has a self-image problem (and is self-aware enough to know it) and is heartened to see the hero have his own uncertain moments too. Two very "real" feeling characters have you pulling for them in a can't-put-down story with friends you laugh right along with.
Wanted by the Alphas - Dawn Steele - A brother and sister, unlikely pair to say the least, move to a new town in the Pacific Northwest to start over and reclaim their lives and find strangeness abounds. Sound intriguing? Oh that's only the start. The voice in this one is entirely unique. The storyline, not at all what I expected (and I've read more than my share of "paranormal romance" books of all flavors) and I loved it exactly for that reason. If it could keep a veteran like me wondering "how is she going to write herself out of *this*??" you know it was one for the "must read again" shelf. There's precious little I can say without giving spoilers here, so I will simply say, as a veteran, I highly recommend all fans of diverse paranormal pick this one up.
He Ain't Lion - Celia Kyle - Saved the favorite for last. The first in the Ridgeville series, this book is hands down one of my favorite books by Ms. Kyle. We get introduced to Ridgeville (and the whole pride? pack?...er... well... Ridgeville - it's a very special place, let's just go with that!), Maya Josephs, and Alex O'Connell - and oh does the fur fly! I have to say I adore Ms. Kyle and her very spunky heroines. I first fell in love with Maya and her "Maya'isms". Maya speaks her mind, does not back down, and is really empowering as a woman and a friend. You cannot read a Ridgeville series book and not walk away feeling a little stronger, having laughed a little more, thanks to Maya. And Alex - oh he's all things we love in an alpha, and then some. Sexy, strong, protective, and trips all over himself when he has to deal with Maya! Yes, there's a mess with Maya (oh, there generally is in Ridgeville, but honestly, it's rarely her fault... ok, it's SOMETIMES her fault but it's always with a good "Maya meant" reason!) but Alex and his guys are there, so is Maya's best friend, Carly, and somehow, life will go on. So will the Ridgeville series... and I highly recommend you pick them up.
November 28, 2013
Eleven great shifter stories that are intriguing, steamy, and sure to set your sense tingling.
Marina Maddox’s Laid Bear: Bethany is a curvy young woman who can’t believe her luck when her hot new neighbor Max falls for, but his secret not only threatens her future, but her life.
Tawny Taylor’s BEARed to You: Abby is a curvy city girl who is thrilled when a hot naked man shows up on her doorstep until he turns into a bear and they are forced to run for their lives.
Celia Kyle’s He Ain’t Lion: A curvy young woman is looking for a night of fun and then she’s turned into a werelion.
Elixa Everett’s Whatever He Needs Her to Be: Selena is a shapshifter that can be whatever the man of her dreams needs her to be.
Dawn Steele’s Wanted by the Alphas: Shannon is the new girl in town and she meets two extremely gorgeous men who are also very different, one is a witch one is an alpha werewolf and they just happen to be at war with each other.
Aubrey Rose’s Blind Wolf: A blind werewolf leading a pack of stragglers finally finds his mate… and then he realizes she’s human.
Cynthia Brint’s Until the Flood: The love of Fiona’s live died years ago, but now he’s returned and no longer human.
Julianne Reyer’s Desires of the Wolfman: A newlywed couple must face their fantasies and their fears as they thrust into a world of werewolves and mystery.
Selena Kitt’s Cat Lover (Book 1): Sebastian and Katie’s relationship issues become more complicated by the arrival of Katie’s ex and then Katie start changing… into something not quite human.
Adriana Hunter’s Better Mate Than Never: Lycans can’t mate with humans, so Caleb has kept his distance from Paige even though he can sense her incredibly intense hunger for him. But when Paige is kidnapped by Caleb has no choice but to go after her, even it means risking it all.
Eliza Gayle’s Lucas: Lucas really only has one choice when there is a mating call that won’t be denied, rituals that must be honored and unrelenting enemies who will stop at nothing to get what they want.
This box set gathers eleven entertaining stories that keep the reader well entertained from beginning to end. The stories are fast paced and intriguing with their lots of action and suspense and each with its own unique elements for variety. The stories are well written and grab the reader’s attention and setting their imagination free.
The chemistry between the characters in each of the stories send shivers down the reader’s spine and ranges from hot and steamy to scorching hot. There is sweet and tender romance, erotic sex play, ménages and more, anal sex and sexual language that heat up the pages of each of these different romantic journeys.
I found these books to be very enjoyable and they can be read one at a time or take a day to curl up and disappear into enchanting worlds. I am looking forward to reading more books by these fantastic authors. The only drawback I found was a couple was a little too short and I think they would have been fantastic if they had been made a little longer.
Marina Maddox’s Laid Bear: Bethany is a curvy young woman who can’t believe her luck when her hot new neighbor Max falls for, but his secret not only threatens her future, but her life.
Tawny Taylor’s BEARed to You: Abby is a curvy city girl who is thrilled when a hot naked man shows up on her doorstep until he turns into a bear and they are forced to run for their lives.
Celia Kyle’s He Ain’t Lion: A curvy young woman is looking for a night of fun and then she’s turned into a werelion.
Elixa Everett’s Whatever He Needs Her to Be: Selena is a shapshifter that can be whatever the man of her dreams needs her to be.
Dawn Steele’s Wanted by the Alphas: Shannon is the new girl in town and she meets two extremely gorgeous men who are also very different, one is a witch one is an alpha werewolf and they just happen to be at war with each other.
Aubrey Rose’s Blind Wolf: A blind werewolf leading a pack of stragglers finally finds his mate… and then he realizes she’s human.
Cynthia Brint’s Until the Flood: The love of Fiona’s live died years ago, but now he’s returned and no longer human.
Julianne Reyer’s Desires of the Wolfman: A newlywed couple must face their fantasies and their fears as they thrust into a world of werewolves and mystery.
Selena Kitt’s Cat Lover (Book 1): Sebastian and Katie’s relationship issues become more complicated by the arrival of Katie’s ex and then Katie start changing… into something not quite human.
Adriana Hunter’s Better Mate Than Never: Lycans can’t mate with humans, so Caleb has kept his distance from Paige even though he can sense her incredibly intense hunger for him. But when Paige is kidnapped by Caleb has no choice but to go after her, even it means risking it all.
Eliza Gayle’s Lucas: Lucas really only has one choice when there is a mating call that won’t be denied, rituals that must be honored and unrelenting enemies who will stop at nothing to get what they want.
This box set gathers eleven entertaining stories that keep the reader well entertained from beginning to end. The stories are fast paced and intriguing with their lots of action and suspense and each with its own unique elements for variety. The stories are well written and grab the reader’s attention and setting their imagination free.
The chemistry between the characters in each of the stories send shivers down the reader’s spine and ranges from hot and steamy to scorching hot. There is sweet and tender romance, erotic sex play, ménages and more, anal sex and sexual language that heat up the pages of each of these different romantic journeys.
I found these books to be very enjoyable and they can be read one at a time or take a day to curl up and disappear into enchanting worlds. I am looking forward to reading more books by these fantastic authors. The only drawback I found was a couple was a little too short and I think they would have been fantastic if they had been made a little longer.
November 3, 2013
Sometimes more isn't better. Two stars for the Shifter Romance Boxed Set an Insatiable Reads collection
I'm a huge fan of bargains, especially bargain e-books having racked up what seemed to be the debt of a nation the first few months I owned my Kindle, that's why I try to find interesting and fun offerings for the Friday posts. So, when I saw that there was a box set of Shifter Romances available from the publisher for review - and that it would be offered at $0.99 for a while - I immediately wanted to add Shifter Romance Boxed Set (11 Book Bundle), an Insatiable Reads collection of bestselling paranormal romance to my review list.
I'm not sorry I did, but I am sorry that the publisher went for quantity over quality. Don't get me wrong, I really liked several of the eleven stories included here, but I don't feel this is the most thoughtful or interesting collection I've seen - even for the rock bottom price. What irritated me the most, I think, was the inclusion of multi-partner erotica stories in a book classified as paranormal romance. It definitely carries at least an NR-17 rating if not higher.
The stories that I found most interesting and well-written were: Marina Maddix's Laid Bear, Tawny Taylor's Beared to You (both about bear shifters); Celia Kyle's He Ain't Lion, Aubrey Rose's Blind Wolf, Cynthia Brint's Until the Flood, and Adriana Hunter's Better Mate than Never. In addition, Elixa Everett offered a whole new view of shapeshifting in Whatever He Wants Her to Be. If the publisher had compiled a shifter paranormal romance collection with these seven stories, I'd be more than delighted with my expenditure of $0.99 or the list price of $9.99 as they were fun, hot, steamy romances with interesting plots and characters.
But the publisher didn't and the quality of writing was all over the place from the very good as noted above - to well, some stories I really had to force myself to read. I did read them all though and it took me all day, even with skimming through some of the ones I found quite hard to manage (in particular Julianne Reyer's Desires of the Wolfman, a multi-partner, partner swapping, erotic read that was just deadly - and not in a good way). Other stories, besides Desires of the Wolfman, that include multi partner relations are: Dawn Steele's Wanted by the Alphas and Eliza Gayle's Lucas.
So would I recommend that you purchase this collection? I think I would. As I mentioned, some of these stories were really interesting and I'd like to read more from these authors. I can't rate this very highly, but do feel that if the publisher were, in the future, to compile a real shifter romance collection and a separate shifter erotica collection the reader would be much better served, even with a few less offerings.
Fab Fantasy Fiction
http://www.fabfantasyfiction.com/2013...
I received an eARC from the publisher through NetGalley for use in this review.
I'm a huge fan of bargains, especially bargain e-books having racked up what seemed to be the debt of a nation the first few months I owned my Kindle, that's why I try to find interesting and fun offerings for the Friday posts. So, when I saw that there was a box set of Shifter Romances available from the publisher for review - and that it would be offered at $0.99 for a while - I immediately wanted to add Shifter Romance Boxed Set (11 Book Bundle), an Insatiable Reads collection of bestselling paranormal romance to my review list.
I'm not sorry I did, but I am sorry that the publisher went for quantity over quality. Don't get me wrong, I really liked several of the eleven stories included here, but I don't feel this is the most thoughtful or interesting collection I've seen - even for the rock bottom price. What irritated me the most, I think, was the inclusion of multi-partner erotica stories in a book classified as paranormal romance. It definitely carries at least an NR-17 rating if not higher.
The stories that I found most interesting and well-written were: Marina Maddix's Laid Bear, Tawny Taylor's Beared to You (both about bear shifters); Celia Kyle's He Ain't Lion, Aubrey Rose's Blind Wolf, Cynthia Brint's Until the Flood, and Adriana Hunter's Better Mate than Never. In addition, Elixa Everett offered a whole new view of shapeshifting in Whatever He Wants Her to Be. If the publisher had compiled a shifter paranormal romance collection with these seven stories, I'd be more than delighted with my expenditure of $0.99 or the list price of $9.99 as they were fun, hot, steamy romances with interesting plots and characters.
But the publisher didn't and the quality of writing was all over the place from the very good as noted above - to well, some stories I really had to force myself to read. I did read them all though and it took me all day, even with skimming through some of the ones I found quite hard to manage (in particular Julianne Reyer's Desires of the Wolfman, a multi-partner, partner swapping, erotic read that was just deadly - and not in a good way). Other stories, besides Desires of the Wolfman, that include multi partner relations are: Dawn Steele's Wanted by the Alphas and Eliza Gayle's Lucas.
So would I recommend that you purchase this collection? I think I would. As I mentioned, some of these stories were really interesting and I'd like to read more from these authors. I can't rate this very highly, but do feel that if the publisher were, in the future, to compile a real shifter romance collection and a separate shifter erotica collection the reader would be much better served, even with a few less offerings.
Fab Fantasy Fiction
http://www.fabfantasyfiction.com/2013...
I received an eARC from the publisher through NetGalley for use in this review.
November 5, 2013
Wow what absolutely amazing value for money this boxed set is! For lovers of paranormal and shifter romance this is definitely a must have. If you are new to this genre then this is an excellent place to start.
There are lots of shifter books available but most to tend to be about werewolves with a smattering of were cats. In this set we get so much more as we even get a sexy werebear!
If you like sexy alpha males then you will be bowled over by this collection but there's a sensitive loving side to them as well.
This set offers eleven stories by different authors for you to try. These are stories written by authors at the top of their game and are bound to delight. Although each author has their own style nevertheless each book is of a quality that is bound to please.
Strong story telling , laugh out loud moments and lots of hot sensual loving. Emotional reads that will make you want to read more from these talented authors.
There are lots of shifter books available but most to tend to be about werewolves with a smattering of were cats. In this set we get so much more as we even get a sexy werebear!
If you like sexy alpha males then you will be bowled over by this collection but there's a sensitive loving side to them as well.
This set offers eleven stories by different authors for you to try. These are stories written by authors at the top of their game and are bound to delight. Although each author has their own style nevertheless each book is of a quality that is bound to please.
Strong story telling , laugh out loud moments and lots of hot sensual loving. Emotional reads that will make you want to read more from these talented authors.
November 14, 2013
What a BARGAIN!!! For such a little price, you get 11 books all about shifters, although not all wolves! Bears, cats, and even shapeshifters who can only assume human forms - its all here.
Now, I have to say that I didn't love all of them but out of 11 books, is that seriously a realistic expectation? Out of 11 books, 9 of them I thoroughly enjoyed and have new authors to look out for now. As for the other two, I still enjoyed them but somehow they just didn't connect with me as much as the others.
The thing I like about these books is that the heroines are all different. Some have curves (thankfully!), some lack self-confidence, some are feisty. The men, in whatever form they are in, are all Alphas and I thought they were wonderful.
There are some rather negative reviews about this box set, which I honestly can't see the reasons for. I enjoyed them, I'm glad I got the bundle and I will be looking for more from these authors. Read them and make up your own mind.
Now, I have to say that I didn't love all of them but out of 11 books, is that seriously a realistic expectation? Out of 11 books, 9 of them I thoroughly enjoyed and have new authors to look out for now. As for the other two, I still enjoyed them but somehow they just didn't connect with me as much as the others.
The thing I like about these books is that the heroines are all different. Some have curves (thankfully!), some lack self-confidence, some are feisty. The men, in whatever form they are in, are all Alphas and I thought they were wonderful.
There are some rather negative reviews about this box set, which I honestly can't see the reasons for. I enjoyed them, I'm glad I got the bundle and I will be looking for more from these authors. Read them and make up your own mind.
November 20, 2013
I received a copy of this boxed set from NetGalley in place of an honest review.
In this great set you are getting to read different stories by different authors. Some I have read before and some I hadn't. It makes me want to read more by them. We get to read these books by these authors. Laid Bear-Marina Maddix, Beared to You-Tawny Taylor, He Ain't Lyon-Celia Kyle, Whatever He Needs Her to Be-Elixa Everett, Wanted by the Alphas-Dawn Steele, Blind Wolf-Aubrey Ross, Until the Flood-Cynthia Brint, Desires of the Wolfman-Julianne Reyer, Cat Lover (Book 1)-Selena Kitt, Better Mate than Never-Adriana Hunter, and Lucas-Eliza Gayle.
I love how the authors wrote each and everyone of their books. Some had more than others but they each had a great storyline. I got to read about all kinds of shifters. Some were born that way and some wasn't. I enjoyed getting lost in each story. I can't wait to read more by these authors just to see what kind of adventure I will get to go on next.
In this great set you are getting to read different stories by different authors. Some I have read before and some I hadn't. It makes me want to read more by them. We get to read these books by these authors. Laid Bear-Marina Maddix, Beared to You-Tawny Taylor, He Ain't Lyon-Celia Kyle, Whatever He Needs Her to Be-Elixa Everett, Wanted by the Alphas-Dawn Steele, Blind Wolf-Aubrey Ross, Until the Flood-Cynthia Brint, Desires of the Wolfman-Julianne Reyer, Cat Lover (Book 1)-Selena Kitt, Better Mate than Never-Adriana Hunter, and Lucas-Eliza Gayle.
I love how the authors wrote each and everyone of their books. Some had more than others but they each had a great storyline. I got to read about all kinds of shifters. Some were born that way and some wasn't. I enjoyed getting lost in each story. I can't wait to read more by these authors just to see what kind of adventure I will get to go on next.
October 31, 2013
I've read He Ain't Lion so far and will review that, I will edit and add to this as I read the others in this boxed set.
He Ain't Lion by Celia Kyle
4 stars
There’s a lot of seriously hot sex, humor and a great story packed into this novella. For the length of the story I laughed quite a bit.
Alex is the typical hot alpha except that he’s fallible and admits it. I really liked him and his inner dialogues. The way he handled Maya and her spunky attitude was great. I also loved Maya’s pet name for Alex and was impressed with how well she handled what happened to her.
Without spoiling the story all I can say is this was a great quick read that left me hot and smiling. I will read You're Lion, a continuation of Maya and Alex's story.
(I received a copy from publisher for an honest review.)
He Ain't Lion by Celia Kyle
4 stars
There’s a lot of seriously hot sex, humor and a great story packed into this novella. For the length of the story I laughed quite a bit.
Alex is the typical hot alpha except that he’s fallible and admits it. I really liked him and his inner dialogues. The way he handled Maya and her spunky attitude was great. I also loved Maya’s pet name for Alex and was impressed with how well she handled what happened to her.
Without spoiling the story all I can say is this was a great quick read that left me hot and smiling. I will read You're Lion, a continuation of Maya and Alex's story.
(I received a copy from publisher for an honest review.)
November 6, 2013
I tried writing progress notes as I went through each story. Unfortunately the last few really didn't do much for me and I was honestly just ready to be done. 11 stories, although short May have been slightly over zealous. I can say I didn't care too much for many of these, some were entertaining, others felt like the tried too hard. If you are a fan of paranormal romances that has yet to find some truly amazing series give this collection of stories a read, but since I have gotten tangled into some pretty awesome paranormal series I can't help but compare and find others lacking! I would give the collection as a whole 2 stars.
*arc courtesy of Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for a honest review*
*arc courtesy of Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for a honest review*
January 12, 2014
I think this was a good value for the money. The stories were longer than little novellas which was what I was expecting initially. Some I liked some were kind of ehh. There were several stories involving "heavy" girls which kind of bug me. I don't really want all those body issues in my romances, in fact the one I most liked was the lion shifter story where the girl was "curvy" but she never gave it a second thought. No oh he's so hot look at me all curvy how can he really like me blah blah blah crap. And for the record I am not skinny by any means. It's just that stuff bugs me. Anyway, there were some good stories and a lot in the set that were pretty good, and most had pretty decent sex scenes so that's another plus.
November 6, 2013
I'm a huge fan of shifter romance and this book had 11 stories included in it.
I haven't read this books when they came out individually but I'm glad I had the opportunity to read them. Although they have a happy ending not most of them have a satisfying ending which made me crave more. Despite that, you'll enjoy this boxed set especially if you're a huge fan of paranormal romance that is about shifters.
Overall, I enjoyed reading the book and I'd recommend it to all you shifter romance fans!
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I haven't read this books when they came out individually but I'm glad I had the opportunity to read them. Although they have a happy ending not most of them have a satisfying ending which made me crave more. Despite that, you'll enjoy this boxed set especially if you're a huge fan of paranormal romance that is about shifters.
Overall, I enjoyed reading the book and I'd recommend it to all you shifter romance fans!
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 9, 2013
When you purchase a box set, you never know what you are going to get. In this case some of the stories were very enjoyable while others were just so so. It was a great introduction to some authors who I had never tried before but for some I'm not sure I will try again. Some of these were shorter novellas, while others were just slightly longer. Definitely worth reading some of the stories just for an indication of the author's style. But be willing to skip to the next story if it's not your thing.
May 3, 2015
Individually I would rate these short stories from 1 to 3.5, 3 or 4 of them were partial stories to suck you into buying their partial book series. I hate that crap! I got caught up in 1 because I was able to find the 'series' (really 1 book) at an online library, I will check into one more series... the last story. I really think it should have been called 'Shifter Porn' with 1 Young adult thrown in to confuse things. If you want to read about shifters heavy on the porn and light on plot this is a great buy for .99.
November 5, 2013
They are some amazing books in this box set its very rare i come across bear shifters as most books tend to go wolf but it was a nice change to see different kinds of shifters in this set! if you love paranormal romance you will love this set.
I received a free copy from netgallery in exchange for a honest review
I received a free copy from netgallery in exchange for a honest review
November 21, 2013
Sorry couldn't give it a five star rating. Most of the stories were excellent but a couple did nothing for me, one I didn't finish. This is unusual for me since I finish a book when I've started it. Only one book I already had so that's good. Would still highly recommend as I found new authors for myself.
January 9, 2016
I think this a bundle well worth the price. You get lions, witches, warlocks, bears and black cougars. The least rating was a three star to me which is an okay read. I am not a professional reader, I read purely for my entertainment. Some of these authors are favorites of mine a couple I didn't know but will visit them again. Enjoyed all around!
February 7, 2014
Closer to an average 3.5 for these 11 books in this boxed set. A couple were GREAT but not enough to warrant anything higher. I was really happy to add a couple more authors to my TBR list, they were that good. If you like slightly erotic shifter romances you'll definitely like these.
April 9, 2014
I don't really know what to say about this boxset, some stories are good and some are bad, really, really bad!
On the whole it was worth 77p, even if I did need brain bleach after a couple of the stories. I didn't rate or review them at all!
On the whole it was worth 77p, even if I did need brain bleach after a couple of the stories. I didn't rate or review them at all!
February 11, 2016
It was a slow read trough all the eleven stories. There were 2 or 3 that were better than expected and few that were not so good. Most stories were just OK. They presented a nice introduction to the authors and different take on shifter romance theme. Not a mind blowing read but interesting enough.
October 30, 2013
The first 2 stories and the last 2 stories brought this one up to a 4 star. The ones in the middle just weren't up to the same level.
Want to read
December 23, 2013Read
He ain't lion 11-4-13
cat lover11-5-13
Laid bear 10-2013
BEARed to you tawny Taylor. Poor 11-10-13
Lucas Eliza gayle 11-11-13
November 11, 2013
Some good some not as good. Not a bad set for the price
November 10, 2014
Some of the stories were okay, but I did a lot of skimming and maybe really read about 20%.
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