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The fate of two kingdoms rests on Samantha’s shoulders, but she doesn’t know who to the ruthless fae queen who knows her hidden destiny, or the murderous god that she’s falling for.

Samantha & Cadean, Book 2 of 3

I thought I’d escaped the Dark Wolf God, but now, my sworn enemy might be my only hope. His brother is toying with my freedom, and the queen of the fae has put me in checkmate. To save the people I care about most, I must infiltrate her court and beat her deadly trials. There’s no one I can turn to except the Dark God. He’s vowed to be my protector and help me master the secrets of my magic, but how far can I trust him or my heart? Will the bond between us be enough, or will his darkness consume us both?

Hunter’s Kiss is part 2 of a dual-POV, slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romance with a HEA in Book 3. Along the way, you can expect high-stakes action, shifting alliances, and steamy romance set in a fantasy world.

If you love alpha heroes with dark souls, tortured pasts, and an obsession with the woman who could bring them to their knees, this romantasy is for you!

434 pages, Paperback

First published June 29, 2023

586 people are currently reading
615 people want to read

About the author

Veronica Douglas

16 books459 followers
Veronica Douglas is a duo of professional archaeologists that love writing and digging together. After spending an inordinate amount of time doing painstaking research for academia, they suddenly discovered a passion for letting their imaginations go wild! A cocktail of magic, romance, and ancient mystery (shaken, not stirred), their books are inspired, in part, by their time in Chicago and their archaeological adventures from around the globe.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
Profile Image for Elena Rodríguez.
1,189 reviews492 followers
August 25, 2023
“All beings sleep, dear child, even the Fates. I’m one of their dreams. ”

Una segunda parte que esperaba con bastantes ganas. Sin embargo, una vez leído me he quedado con la miel en los labios.

Seré breve: siento que los autores crean historias engancharles y en este segundo libro mejoran aún mas su escritura. Sin embargo, siento que esta historia tenía mucho potencial y la puesta en práctica se precipitaron y dejaron muchas cuestiones al aire. Al menos esa es mi opinión.

¿Recomiendo la saga? Sí. Pero antes que lean la precuela o saga principal.
Profile Image for Melissasfandomworld.
715 reviews119 followers
January 3, 2024
3,75 stars

This was yet again a very delightful read! I finished it in 2 sittings, it was so fun and easy to get through. Do still feel like I miss a lot of focus and development of the minor characters, as was the case in the first book. If that would’ve been more present, I think the book would’ve been elevated to an even higher lever more easily because imo minor characters can add so much to a story.

I do love that there is romance present but that it’s not the major focus as is often the case in books in this sub-genre. The MC woman Samantha is quite badass, stands her own in a fight despite being surrounded by very dangerous beings and the MC man Cadean is very supportive of her despite him showing a jealous streak, and a major bout of protectiveness haha. But he’s learning, and I love that! And then there’s still a bit of a dark side to him, that makes him a bit morally Gray and badass.

Overall, this was just a really really fun fantasy/paranormal romance follow up to book 1. At first I wasn’t sure what was to be expected with how the story picked up from the start, but it worked out in the end for me with how there was a nice balance in story development, action and romance and it left me excited to read the next instalment, which I immediately put in a pre-order for over at Amazon - I’ll be circling release day in my calendar!
Profile Image for Beyond the Pages with Eva K.
3,045 reviews165 followers
December 26, 2023
Quick Summary: A dark, delicious para-ro with layers of intrigue

My Review: Veronica Douglas did it again. This book SLAYED!

About the Book:

Hunter's Kiss is book two in the Ruthless Gods: Wolf God series. It picks up where Cadean and Samantha's story ended in book one.

My Attempt at Not Spilling the Beans:

Escaping the Wolf God is the least of Samantha's worries. She now finds herself going from a gilded cage to a beautiful illusion. Who can she trust? Why does she feel drawn to the one who chases her in the shadows? Where can she go to escape what must be faced? What shall the end bring?

Cadean is committed to the relentless pursuit of Samantha. How can he not chase her? They are destined. Linked. Connected. She is his to claim. Will they ever get beyond the struggles and obstacles that forge themselves between them?

About the Characters and Other Elements:

The characters in this book and in this series are so well written. They all have a role to play. They fit into a giant puzzle, contributing to the action, drama, and intrigue. The antagonists are wicked, elusive, and great at deceiving. Even the creatures in the story have a heady presence. They help to communicate the tone, as well as build the intensity. I love how the vines, the woods, and the barrier are used in the story. They help to reveal the true struggle that is happening.

About the Conflict: Ongoing and without fail, dark forces conspire against Cadean, against Samantha, and against those who need to be protected. A battle of wills is evident throughout. What should be obvious is not always so. The build up is spectacular.

My Final Say: Another brilliant hit! The more I read, the more I want. The final installment cannot come soon enough. I highly recommend this incredible sci-fi/fantasy novel. Readers who enjoy a thrill ride in the realm of the fantastical will love it.

Other: This book is collection set worthy. I have made my plans to secure the boxed set as soon as it is released.

Rating: 5/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Series: Yes
Re-read: Yes
Keeper: Yes
Favorites Shelf: Yes
Status: M
Level: BOMB 💣💥🔥
Cover: 5/5
Chemistry: 5/5
Sizzle Factor: 10/5
Tension: 5/5
Ending: 5/5
Besties-of-all-time: Yes
Overall: 💎

Heartfelt appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher, and to NetGalley. Thank you for granting me the opportunity to read and review this ARC. The words I have shared are my own.

#wolfgodFAN
#takenbytheWOLFGOD
Profile Image for Amy Deacon.
242 reviews6 followers
September 18, 2023
Hunters Kiss is the second instalment on the Ruthless Gods trilogy, and the second instalment in the story of Samantha and Cadean.
In this story Samantha ha is move from one captivity to another, having fled the Dark Wolf’s stronghold she finds herself in the Fae palace, under the watchful eye of Ayanna the Fae queen and her guard. Samantha knows the Queen means to harm her but as she is holding her Mother captive Samantha must stay to try and save her.
I enjoyed this instalment even more than the first and cannot wait for the third and final one.
Watching Cadean and Samantha learn to navigate their new relationship we began to see her walls fall and she was finally able to let him in, and we also discover then when he’s in the shadows he can touch her with his shadows 🥵.
I loved the Dreamlands and cannot wait to see more of them, and I’m so ready to watch the development of their relationship, I fell the slow burn is finally going to start paying off.
Whilst I found I had a real dislike to Sam and her stubbornness in the first book I found myself wanting to warm to her in this, and witness her let her walls down to let Cadean in.
I believe they are going to be mates and also that Sam isn’t really the mortal they believe she is, I’m pretty sure she’s going to end up being a god and I can’t wait to see it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Petra.
141 reviews18 followers
July 22, 2023
Okay, to be honest, I hold my breath from anxiety when I continue with the second book of a series which first book I adored. I am so happy that Hunter's Kiss is as strong and captivating continuation of the Ruthless Gods : Wolf God series.
We continue Samantha's journey where we left her at the end of Wolf God – at Auren's kingdom as a guest…although more like a prisoner again, just with a different setting and captor.
Tired of being a pawn, she desperately seeks answers, so she can piece things together and find her place and purpose in the war that is brewing on all fronts.
Unfortunately, in doing so she finds only more questions and with everyone around her having their agenda, she struggles to decide who she can trust.
I can say that I love seeing how Samantha's character in search for herself grew immensely and despite everything she went through, she didn't succumb to blind anger and revenge but instead solidified her focus on helping and protecting.
At the same time, it was fascinating to see how step by step, Cadean and Samantha's relationship changed shape, evolved and made a stable foundation of trust and friendship.
Needless to say, I'll be eager to continue their journey in the third installment!
Profile Image for Shannelle Brown.
60 reviews1 follower
July 31, 2025
2.5 ⭐️

‘Rage is a weapon, and sorrow is steel - but if you are to wield it, you must forge it..’

The first half of this book was LOOONGGG! It dragged on, had a lot of frustrating ‘fighting the feelings’ you get in most second books of series as well as the main characters being either in conflict or separated for most of the book. It definitely picked up in the second half and especially towards the end of the book. Can’t wait to see how Samantha’s magic grows in the final book!
103 reviews3 followers
July 3, 2023
I’m happy to say that the second book in the series did not disappoint. We continue to follow Samantha’s journey through the Dreamland and through self-discovery. She finally started to open her eyes and see things in a different light. My favourite parts of the book were the interactions between Samantha and Cadean through the shadows. Spending time together this way made their connection stronger. The plot could still capture my attention and can’t wait to find out how it ends in the final installment of the series.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me a copy of the book.
103 reviews
October 3, 2024
I am glad I read the second.

I liked this one a whole lot more. I almost gave it 4 stars. I think the FMC got the humbling she deserved. I think she realized that things are not so black and white in war. I think she also realized that often times in a war that never ends, there is always a side that while they aren’t always right, simply wants the fighting to stop and the other side is the one keeping it going. I still think she is woefully naive, but she is getting the gist of things. It still frustrates me that she has so little trust in Cadean, even after he risked EVERYTHING for her. EVERYTHING. She still has reservations. She still isn’t giving him the understanding that she is giving everyone else save the queen, who literally tried to kill her and killed her mom. I don’t know what more Cadean could do in her eyes that would redeem him for what he did to her in trying to save himself and his kingdom. I think she is still being willfully blind to the machinations being perpetrated around her. She knows something is off and instead of being a wolf with the sent of blood in the air she puts it from her mind and sticks to not trusting the one being who has shown himself trustworthy. Other than Sarion, (who she forgave surprisingly quickly compared to Cadean for almost the same thing) Cadean is the only one who has sacrificed as much to help her. I just wish this FMC would get over herself and see the bigger picture. I think that is the actual test that the Oracle was talking about. But Samantha is too self-focused to see the bigger picture.
Profile Image for Jackie Uhrmacher.
432 reviews22 followers
July 1, 2023
The story begins right where Wolf God ended, with Samantha in the hands of Auren, Cadean's brother. Auren is a master strategist, and in hopes of not spoiling too much, I'll just say this - he is five steps ahead of everyone, and I hope he gets his own book! But back to this one...

Samantha makes a pact with the Queen of the Undying Court so she can learn to use her magic. The queen wants to use her powers as a tool to permanently imprison Cadean, and Samantha just wants to no longer be under anyone's thumb.

Most of Hunter's Kiss details Sam's training with the fae. There's a sadistic general, traitorous fellow trainees, an old friend, and a god who lurks in the shadows whenever he can.

I’d started telling every shadow to f*** off out of habit, and I was sure my handmaids were beginning to wonder if I was deranged.

Cadean is nothing if not persistent. He trains Sam at night and helps her navigate this new realm to help her stay alive. But there's a cost to his vigilance, one he's willing to pay in order to protect his little wolf at any cost.

Mine to worship. Mine to desire. Mine to protect.

Hunter's Kiss is proof that the sequel can blow the original book out of the water, and that's saying a lot considering how amazing Wolf God was.

I'm a sucker for alpha males who fall first. Cadean is still the prickly alphahole he was in Wolf God, and he still has a lot to learn about forgiveness and sacrificing people due to his need for vengeance, but he's LEARNING. There are several instances where he over-reacts and readily admits he was wrong because his feelings for Sam are stronger than the darkness in him.

He's also very adept with his shadows. There's a bath scene that will make steam come off your Kindle, and he isn't even touching her!

You might not have the strength to do what is right. But I do. I will find a way, with or without you.”

Samantha also grows during this sequel. She becomes more confident in herself and her magic. She learns about forgiveness, family, and standing up for what's right even when it's scary and could cost her anything.

This is my favorite aspect of the book, honestly, because it shows that strong women deserve to have vengeful gods bow at their feet, and that is a theme sorely lacking in many fantasy/romance novels.

Go grab your copies of Wolf God and Hunter's Kiss today then clear your schedule. You won't be able to put them down!

Thank you, NetGalley and Veronica Douglas, for the opportunity to read this book! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Shannon Jessicaa.
120 reviews9 followers
October 4, 2023
Title: Hunter's Kiss: Ruthless Gods - Wolf God
Author: Veronica Douglas
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

"Hunters Kiss: Ruthless Gods" by Veronica Douglas is a captivating addition to the Hunter's Kiss series, filled with twists, tension, and a complex web of alliances and betrayals.

The story unfolds with an intricate plot that keeps you guessing at every turn. From the very beginning, readers are plunged into a world where trust is a precious commodity, and alliances shift like quicksilver. The narrative skillfully plays with the theme of uncertainty, leaving you with no idea whom to trust, mirroring the protagonist's own dilemma.

Kadian, the enigmatic Wolf God, is portrayed as the epitome of sex incarnate, and the palpable tension between him and Sam adds a layer of intrigue to the story. The magnetic pull between the characters keeps you hooked throughout.

The character of Slane, the vile fae male, is brilliantly crafted to evoke a strong sense of disdain from readers. His presence adds a compelling antagonist to the narrative, making you root for the other characters even more. On the other hand, Fae Guard Sarrion's remorseful nature and his efforts to help Sam provide a refreshing contrast, leaving you with mixed feelings of liking and empathy.

The series holds the promise of even more thrilling developments in the future. The Oracle's ominous presence hints at a deeper layer of mystery waiting to be unraveled, while Sam's unwavering determination exudes pure bad-bitch vibes that you can't help but admire.

The story leaves you yearning for more details about Sam's mother and her untold story, adding another layer of intrigue to the plot. Queen of Fae, Ioanna, emerges as a character with hidden agendas, and the revelation that she may have stolen some of Sam's power is a jaw-dropping twist that keeps you eagerly turning the pages.

Orin, the manipulative character, continues to keep readers guessing, and the lingering sense of distrust towards him adds to the story's complexity.

In "Hunters Kiss; Ruthless Gods," Veronica Douglas has crafted a compelling narrative filled with complex characters and a plot brimming with surprises. This book is a must-read for fans of the Hunter's Kiss series, and it leaves you eagerly anticipating the next installment to see where Sam's journey will take her next.

Thank you for the opportunity to read this.
Profile Image for Fedythereader.
1,020 reviews30 followers
July 17, 2023
Thank you so much to the author and the publisher, Victory Editing NetGalley, for sharing an ARC copy of this book with me on NetGalley!!

“That look. Her voice. Her lips.
They would push me over the brink into madness.”

"My savage little wolf."

“Love would only break both of us. I knew it in my soul, and yet the darker, savage side of me wanted to say fuck the Fates and claim this woman as mine.
Mine to worship. Mine to desire.
Mine to protect.”

I knew it !!!! When I finished reading book one I thought “well now I’m very interested in the development of the story” and I was right!!!! This book was so so so good!!! I loved it !!!! I can’t believe I loved it so much !!! Right now we have Sam running from Cadean only to find herself prisoner of Cadean’s brother and the far court. And while in this book she will learn more about her powers and her destiny, the undeniable bond between her and the Dark Wolf God, will be impossible to ignore anymore and sometimes a touch made of shadows is exactly what you need to go through the terrible day you are facing trapped in a golden cage. I loved how much this time around we see the empowerment Sam goes through and I knew I loved her determination and independence when I read about her in book one … even more so now. I loved that she is very strong willed and she manages to put people in their places when they cross her. And the romantic relationship in this book … guys it turns spicy !!!! I loved that !!!! Loved it so so much!!!! It made me fall in love with Cadean even more!!! I mean … this time the forced distance … made it all worth it !!! And I can’t even believe I am saying it!!! So so good!!! I’m so so in love with how the book ended and I legitimately cannot wait for the next book in this series !!!

"You are beautiful. A warrior, a Valkyrie, soaked in the blood of her enemies. The wounds are a testament to the truth: you were magnificent today. A beautiful goddess of war."

"Rage is a weapon, and sorrow is steel-but if you are to wield it, you must forge it. I will teach you how."

"I made an oath to the gods of vengeance to destroy her, Cadean, and gods damn it, I will keep it, even if it kills me in the end."
Profile Image for B.
108 reviews8 followers
August 16, 2023
🔥🚫 Oh the forbidden burn! 🚫 🔥

“The truth was, I was falling for her, and it had to stop. She was mortal, and I was a god.”

“Love would only break both of us. I knew it in my soul, and yet the darker, savage side of me wanted to say fuck the Fates and claim this woman as mine.”

Cadean and Samantha return in this third installment, which sees them separated beyond the border of his kingdom. She has escaped him with the help of his brother, but is it all she thinks it is? Not likely. There’s deception at every turn and she’s about to learn whether she can trust those helping her or if she must stand on her own two feet.

In the midst of being separated, a deal is struck and she finds that she is in peril beyond any that she can imagine. She is in the far queen’s realm and there’s twists at every turn. Her mother even ends up in the chaos and is used to try to control Samantha. And yet, the god she escaped comes to her in the shadows and helps at every turn. Can she trust that he is there to help or to use her again?

“Do not seek your purpose within others—not the queen or her people or the Dark Wolf God. It is within you, waiting for you to grasp it. It’s not an act or a mask you wear, but the thing that drives you forward—the thing that will not let you stop when every part of you wants to die.”

In the end, Samantha must stand true to herself and her beliefs, but does she win the heart of the god she’s yearned for since the beginning? Can love really conquer all? Can Samantha conquer a past of trauma from men who only seek to use and abuse her?

“I see you. I see the old wounds. I see the injustices done to you, and I see the marks they’ve left. The doubt. The inability to see yourself. But those scars don’t need to define you, little wolf. Choose the ones that make you stronger and cast the others away.”

This installment leaves you hoping for more and praying this isn’t the end of their story yet. 🖤
Profile Image for Laura Schofield.
Author 3 books2 followers
October 16, 2023
After less than 24 hours, I've already finished it and I'm waiting very IMPATIENTLY for book three to come out 🙃

The book begins with our heroine, Samantha, at Auren's castle after having escaped the Dark Wolf God's chains, only to find herself bound by a different kind of chain. She had been at Auren's castle for a few weeks, already, when Cadean breaks through the wards that kept him from shadow-casting to her. When he finally is able to talk to her again, they discover he had been manipulating her mind with his magic any time she asked him about leaving the Dreamlands and returning to Magic Side or even Deerhaven to find her mother.

After he's called out, the real Auren is brought to the surface and his plan is laid out. He wanted her to spy for him in the Undying Court of the high fae. The queen comes, and they're off to Dreamspire, the realm of the Undying Court. There, her greatest enemy becomes her biggest ally in staying alive and keeping the scrutinizing eyes of the queen and her sadistic general from discovering her true purpose for being in Dreamspire. The vines that plagued the Dark Wolf God's realm.

The characters were jumping off the page, the plot twists were thrilling, the descriptions were off the chart. It held my attention for hours, and I do mean HOURS . I've read many books and there aren't many that just grip my attention like this trilogy has so far.

I give it 🌶️🌶️🌶️ out of 5. There are two spicy scenes, with LOTS of glorious and sensual details. These two have some kind of magic of their own when it comes to writing. This is -the definition- of a slow burn, though. I LOVE how their relationship develops throughouts the second book and thank the Fates for Mel, or Cadean may have still been in the dark.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sarah Jordan.
96 reviews8 followers
June 27, 2023
I didn’t speak the truth that I felt rising within me. My fate had been written, and I’d already chosen it. – Samantha, HUNTER’S KISS

HUNTER’S KISS is book 2 in this trilogy by wife/husband duo Veronica Douglas, and boy did it blow my mind! I was expecting a darker paranormal romance but what I got was so much more… this novel is closer to an epic fantasy romance and is probably my favorite of the series so far. Gorgeously intricate and mesmerizing world-building, complex characters, sadistic villains, and a doomed but steamy romance all wrapped in a novel I couldn’t put down. While WOLF GOD (book 1) focused more on Cadean, the dark wolf god, this one followed Samantha’s story line. Sam has a lovely character arc and so much growth from the bartender we met in Magic Side: Wolf Bound to this half-fae/half-wolf moon power-wielding protector who finally embraces her calling. My only complaint was that the slow burn was SOOOOO SLOOOOOWWWW… but if you can hold out, it’s worth the wait!

NOTE ABOUT TW/CW & SPICE: I don’t think there are any included, but I think it’s important to mention that this book does include fantasy violence, adult language, content, and situations, as well as on-page sex.


**************
Favorite Quotes:

Love would only break both of us. I knew it in my soul, and yet the darker, savage side of me wanted to say f*ck the Fates and claim this woman as mine. Mine to worship. Mine to desire. Mine to protect.

“War is murder and terror, and there’s no getting around that.”

“Something about you draws me in and grounds me here. You’re like a spotlight, illuminating the world around you.”

I was vengeance, I was retribution, I was death descending like a dark storm.
Profile Image for The_Quiet_Fool.
71 reviews2 followers
July 12, 2023
"I, Samantha Bennet, born of both wolf and fae, swear an oath of vengeance..."

In the second book of the Ruthless Gods: Wolf God series, we get a continuation of the dual POV between Cadean/Dark Wolf God and Samantha. It picks up where Samantha has escaped and has taken refugee in Auren's courts. Samantha struggles to harness her powers and sever the ties that keep her a marionette to the rulers around her. Throughout the book we get a better insight into the ideals of the materialistic socialites--a stark contrast to the primal minimalists of Cadean's realm. Samantha also discovers more about the vines rapturing the Dark God's lands. It all comes to a head as Samantha chooses a side--her side.

Recommended for NA readers who like enemies-to-lovers, redemption arcs, spice, action, and magic. The first 60% of the book is slow and very much just giving the reader a sense of the political delicacies of the Dreamlands outside of Shadowstone. Some scenes gave me Hunger Games vibes which was a nice throw back to my childhood. Overall though, I preferred the first book in terms of pacing and tension between characters. However, Hunter's Kiss was still enjoyable with Cadean's redemption arc and I'm looking forward to the last book of this trilogy: Foresaken Fates.

I received this title as an eARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and Veronica Douglas for the opportunity to read this treasure!
Profile Image for Amanda Faye.
198 reviews6 followers
August 3, 2023
I know that this is a book review and I'm supposed to be really articulate about my thoughts and feelings and opinions about it, but man, I don't know how to do more than gush right now. I'll give it a shot anyway.

Samantha is such a badass and her sense of justice and unwillingness to waver on what she believes is right is so admirable in a MC. And the way Cadean admires her for it, despite the fact that a huge chunk of her beliefs go against his, was also kind of swoony. When he swooned for her, I swooned for him. I'm so glad they've surrendered to the chemistry between them, and the writing and buildup made the waiting completely worth it. Seriously, Douglas has outdone herself with this series. It gives only just enough romance-wise that you stay hooked, just waiting for the moment it comes together. And the action? Don't even get me started. Many a fantasy novel has been ruined by a two-page-long fight scene ending in an anticlimactic victory. But this? Douglas kept me firmly on the edge of my seat the entire time. I felt those high stakes as if they were my own. Both MC's emotions and turmoils were so exquisitely presented that I truly felt everything right alongside them. Now I'm going to impatiently wait for the third book to resurrect me after that last 15% of the book killed me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Marta Cox.
2,859 reviews210 followers
July 12, 2023
Samantha has escaped the Wolf God Cadean and is now with his brother Auren . However he's a manipulative sort with plans of his own so out of the frying pan into the proverbial fire ! You would imagine there's nothing worse than having your mind and memories reshaped but you would be wrong because in the Undead Court lives a terrifying Fae Queen and she has set her sights on Samantha !
This was without a doubt a much more rounded story than the first Wolf God. I think because I hadn't realised that this series connects to a previous series Wolf Bound I did feel like I'd missed something. Thankfully this book actually starts with a slight reprieve so things kind of got filled in although I do think it's hard to imagine Cadean doing things he has previously done because for most of this book yes he's powerful, vengeful even but there's a softer, caring side to him. Samantha is frequently torn between doing right and following her emotions. I do feel the Queen is a worthy albeit evil adversary and very much look forward to the next book which I believe concludes this trilogy.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
Profile Image for Rebekah McCallie Winter.
552 reviews17 followers
July 17, 2023
Thank you to Veronica Douglas, NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for this ARC of Hunter's Kiss in exchange for an honest review.

Hunter's Kiss is the second installment in the Ruthless Gods: Wolf God series, and I enjoyed this book as much as the first. While Cadean and Samantha spent nearly the entire book physically separated, because Samantha felt fleeing the Wolf God was the only way to continue her duty to save the people of the Dreamlands, the two cultivate their relationship through late night shadow casting. They spend that time talking, dueling, and scheming, and both characters try to open up and become more vulnerable. Samantha becomes to rely on Cadean, which shifts her perspective on her feelings for the man but not the god. I really enjoyed these intimate scenes, which showed the sweeter side of both characters. There was also lot of action in this book, which never really let up from beginning to end, and I enjoyed there never being a lull in the plot progression.

This is a fun, action packed series, with a great FMC who always stands up for what she believes is right. I am excited to see where the last book in this series goes, and I hope both characters accept their *possible* mate bond sooner rather than later.
364 reviews3 followers
July 17, 2023
Hunter's Kiss picks up right where Wolf God left off. Samantha is manipulated into making a pact with the fae queen when she learns that the queen has taken her mother. The fae queen extorts Samantha, threatening her mother's life if she does not agree to help take down the Dark Wolf God. Much of this story involves her training to learn how to control and utilize her magic, both through resources in the fae court and in secret with Cadean. The tension and secret longing that we saw in book 1 continues in book 2 as Cadean's and Samantha's relationship continues to grow. I love brutal protectiveness Samantha and Cadean have for each other (even when Samantha doesn't want to care for him). The secrets Samantha unravels about the fae kingdom as the story progressed had me on the edge of my seat.

This book was even better than the first. If you're looking for a tension-filled slow burn romance, enemies to lovers, tons of nail-biting action, a badass FMC, and interesting/hilarious side characters (who honestly need to have their own story!), this is the book for you. I can't wait for the final book! Thank you so much to NetGalley and Veronica Douglas for this e-arc in exchange for an honest review!
40 reviews
September 27, 2023
Thank you to publishers, Veronica Douglas, and Netgalley for an ARC copy of Hunter's Kiss Hunter's Kiss was a tough read because there were times I wasn't interested in the story and times I was completely enthralled. This book draws you in by starting right where the other left off, which was a pretty intense cliff hanger in my opinion. This novel starts with our main character, Samantha, in the enemies palace and the drama only continues from there. I really liked that this story was faster paced. I thought the author did a good job at keeping the reader interested with the story but not creating too convoluted of a story that was difficult to follow. Samantha grew on me this book, I found her to be less wishy washy and more determined to take whatever she wanted in her life. I also liked that her relationship with Caedan progresses naturally and wasn't forced. They become friends before they became lovers. They had to rebuild trust before they could actually build a substantial relationship. I like Caedan more and more this book. We saw a softer side of him with glimpses into his old self. He seems to be more concerned with Samantha's well being and safety than pushing his own agenda until one scene in the book. I liked that he was more admirable this novel. Overall this was a good read. It kept me interested, writing was strong, an the storyline was engaging. I would recommend this book to my friends who love fantasy with far, werewolves, and shifters in the future.
1,896 reviews13 followers
June 30, 2023
Even being captive in his domains, the Dark Wolf God terrified and let his power be felt. Ruthless and determined to annihilate the threat hanging over his people, Cadean was struggling with his feelings for the little wolf. Samantha wasn't clear on her purpose, but she was determined to protect those in need, even if she had to make difficult decisions and face her own heart. What a struggle of wills! When Cadean showed himself, not as the mighty savior of his people but as the hideous monster everyone feared, he set Samantha to thinking. Interesting and intriguing Cadean's struggling with himself, his shadow powers and his need for the little wolf. Lots of action, intrigue, suspense and strong emotions. The intensity of some scenes along with the twists in the plot made my pulse race and even made me think. Whoops! Things got ugly often. I love it when authors keep me in suspense, needing a pause to breath, attentive to detail and expecting the worst. Interesting points of view from both characters I have no doubt that what Samantha and Cadean are going to face in the end is going to be intense, horrible and exciting and I won't miss it.
Profile Image for Tia.
145 reviews9 followers
July 5, 2023
Out of the frying pan and into the fire. That must be how Sam felt at the beginning of this book, if only she knew that it was just going to keep getting hotter and hotter as she tried to navigate the political battlefield of the Dreamlands. Hunter's Kiss picked up right where Wolf God left off, with Sam having just escaped Cadean's castle with Auren's assistance, and once again Veronica Douglas delivered! I had the wonderful luck of winning a copy of the ARC while in the process of moving and to say I didn't want to put it down would be an understatement. Watching the developments as both Sam and Cadean are forced to sort out their priorities from afar, you pivot between being ready to smack them for their oblivious nature and cheering them on as they triumph. As before the dynamic of their relationship was a lot of fun, and with the formal introduction of new villains you have no shortage of people to hate. I cannot wait for the release of Forsaken Fate- I HAVE to know what happens next!
1,458 reviews4 followers
February 5, 2024
good

The thing I like the most about this book is that the beginning before the book actually starts. The author gives us a little bit of a recap from the book before and also the last little bit of the dark lies book which flows into this series. Samantha has got herself into a lot of trouble in this book. Now that she’s living in the castle with the dark god‘s brother, she is realizing that he is manipulating her a lot more than even the dark God did. Then she ends up making a pact with the fae queen and she goes to the undying lands. Not only is she supposed to be spying but she also is to get some of the seeds for the vines that are killing the dark gods lands. She’s not sure how she’s going to do that with the packed she is under has a no stealing clause in it. Then she gets herself into some fae games and is not sure if she’s going to be able to do it because her magic is so erratic. The dark God comes to her every day and helps her train, and he also helps her escape. I definitely am going to read the next book in this series.
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1,790 reviews23 followers
June 30, 2023
She Will Protect Them All

“Do not seek your purpose within others—not the queen or her people or the Dark Wolf God. It is within you, waiting for you to grasp it. It’s not an act or a mask you wear, but the thing that drives you forward—the thing that will not let you stop when every part of you wants to die.”

Samantha grows and shines in her moon powers, in Veronica Douglas’ second book in their Ruthless Gods: Wolf God series, Hunter’s Kiss.

As a half wolf, half fae, Samantha finds herself straddling worlds filled with evil, while she continues to fight for the freedoms of the peoples of all the lands. Continuing to feel an attachment to the Dark Wolf God, Cadean, Sam decides to infiltrate his brother’s and the Queen’s lands to find a way to bring peace to them all.

So much action and peril. So much pain and suffering. So many challenges to overcome.

Wonderfully written fantasy-action adventure that pulls at our romantic hearts!
295 reviews2 followers
July 2, 2023
WOLF GOD 🐺 INDEED

I love Veronica Douglas's work, but the wolf god books are my favorite!!! I love all the aspects and different sides to Cadean he is the dark wolf god, the opposite of the moon goddess u could say. He is beauty,death,destruction,creation,love,hatred,possessive,passionate. He can shape-shift into anything but his true form is my favorite wolf of all a dire wolf. Then u have Sam she is from magic side she is a wolf/fae hybrid but also has moon magic she will be his redemption or his cage she will fight for what is right for all of the people in the dream lands bc unlike a God she has the ability to harness her pain and rage to do the right thing no matter the cost...will the cost be her life or will her and Cadean have a life together after they kill that even fae queen the ball is in the dark wolf gods court will he choose the right path?? We will know soon!!! A must read I can't wait for book 3
82 reviews4 followers
June 30, 2023
I absolutely loved the second book in the Ruthless Wolf God series. I love the recap at the beginning of the book as it had been some time since the first book. This recap does a great job of getting readers up to speed. We get to learn about the Fae side of Dreamland and I love the world building. The Fae Queen makes a pact with Sam, somewhat forced by the Wolf God's brother and goes to Undying Court. Sam learns more about her Fae abilities and is incredibly strong. She still doesn't know who her father is but there are little nuggets that it is some very important based on her power and abilities, plus how badly the Fae Queen tries to keep her. Sam escapes with the help of Cadean, the Dark Wolf God, and they FINALLY have their moment. :) I can't wait for the third and last book to come out. There is an epic war brewing and I can't wait to read all about it.
Profile Image for Eve.
41 reviews9 followers
July 22, 2023
I can NOT get enough of these characters.

Samantha’s character is an amazing strong willed FMC, and I love that her fate isn’t set in stone. She’s still spinning trying to do what’s right to HER.

Cadaens character has been incredible to watch grow. Even when he disagrees with Samantha he still lets her do what she needs to do, even if he does vocalize he’s against it. The love he has for Samantha is beautiful and I am PRAYING they get to be together fully in book 3.

After i hit 60/70% of this book, I had to finish it in that sitting. There was so much that could go wrong that I needed to know immediately. Everything that’s happening just captivated me and I felt like I was constantly on the edge waiting for something to go horribly wrong.

I’m beyond happy with how book 2 ended and FALL 2023 NEEDS TO HURRY UP.
Profile Image for SadiesShelves.
144 reviews4 followers
July 29, 2023
First book in this series was pretty straightforward and not incredibly unique, the second book had me hooked way more.

The plot finally gets interesting in this second book and you finally learn the intricacies of the FMC powers and understand the evil magic plaguing the land. There is so much action here and traveling through the realm, I really enjoyed every piece of it. The FMC has a quest to prove herself, find her magic, protect her people and maybe fall in love? 🤯

This book is for those who like enemies to lovers, magical quests/trials, and a mildly steamy romance 🌶️.

Only complaint for this books is that while it is far more exciting than the first book in the series, there is not enough spice or relationship with the FMC and the dark lords a court…I’m hoping this comes with the 3rd book!

This was an ARC read. Thank you netgalley and the author!
Profile Image for Travelogged Blogs.
1,549 reviews128 followers
July 2, 2023
I didn't know that this is the second book in the series so I read book one first but it was really nice to have a recap in this book to get to know what happened in the previous book, which really helped! This book is full of action, mystery and thrill. Samantha & Cadean grow more closer and it was nice to see the development in their relationship. But most of all I liked the part where Cadean admitted his mistakes and tried to understand Sam. I must say, Cadean's brother Auren was intriguing, he was smart and cunning. Overall, I enjoyed reading this book. There's good character development and the plot is mind-blowing!

Thank you Netgalley for providing me the ARC in exchange of an honest review
Profile Image for Sonja.
990 reviews24 followers
July 26, 2023
This book was SO much better than the last one. Does that mean I finally like Samantha then? No. No it does not. But she was definitely easier to read about this time around. And I still absolutely love Cadean.

Picking up where the last one left off, we have Samantha now living with Cadean's brother Auren. Honestly, he's one of the people here I would trust the least, but as we know, Samantha doesn't always make smart decisions. Turns out, she's more of a prisoner here than she was with Cadean. Auren doesn't let her go anywhere without guards, he controls what she wears and what she can do. He uses his godly powers to mess with her mind and get his way constantly, but at least this one Samantha eventually learns about and tries to fight against.

Eventually it happens that the fae queen comes to Auren's territory because she wants Samantha to come back with her. Understandably, Samantha is terrified to do so but she hopes she can find a way to save Cadean's people there. She also desperately wants to learn how to control the power from that part of her heritage. Of course, Auren wants something out of it too.

There was never a dull moment after Samantha gets there. An old enemy is now the only one she can trust, she trains with other fae to control her power and to take part in a trial of sorts to save her mother, and she uncovers so many horrible things about the fae and that court. But best of all is how much Cadean is with her. In shadow form of course. He may deny she's his mate all he wants, but he was always amazing when he was with her and always had her back.

It was a pretty explosive ending to this one and I did like how everything went down. While I'm not super excited to find out how this will end, I cannot wait for these two to finally figure out and admit they're mates. So yeah, I'm looking forward to the last book now.


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