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Tales of the Harker Pack #1
The Pack or the Panther
Tales of the Harker Book One
Cole Harker, son of an alpha werewolf, is bigger and more powerful than most wolves, tongue-tied in groups, and gay. For twenty-four years, he’s lived to please his family and pack—even letting them promise him in marriage to female werewolf Analiese to secure a pack alliance and help save them from a powerful gangster who wants their land. Then Cole meets Analiese’s half-brother, panther shifter Paris Marketo, and for the first time, Cole wants something for himself.
When Analiese runs off to marry a human, Cole finally has a chance with Paris, but the solitary cat rejects him, the pack, and everything it represents. Then Cole discovers the gangster wants Paris too and won’t rest until he has him. What started as a land dispute turns into World War Wolf! But the bigger fight is the battle between cats and dogs.
Cole Harker, son of an alpha werewolf, is bigger and more powerful than most wolves, tongue-tied in groups, and gay. For twenty-four years, he’s lived to please his family and pack—even letting them promise him in marriage to female werewolf Analiese to secure a pack alliance and help save them from a powerful gangster who wants their land. Then Cole meets Analiese’s half-brother, panther shifter Paris Marketo, and for the first time, Cole wants something for himself.
When Analiese runs off to marry a human, Cole finally has a chance with Paris, but the solitary cat rejects him, the pack, and everything it represents. Then Cole discovers the gangster wants Paris too and won’t rest until he has him. What started as a land dispute turns into World War Wolf! But the bigger fight is the battle between cats and dogs.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 7, 2014
65 people are currently reading
906 people want to read
About the author
Tara Lain
97 books1,387 followersTara Lain believes in happy ever afters - and magic. Same thing. In fact, she says, she doesn't believe, she knows. Tara shares this passion in her stories that star her unique, charismatic heroes and adventurous heroines. Quarterbacks and cops, werewolves and witches, blue collar or billionaires, Tara's characters, readers say, love deeply, resolve seemingly insurmountable differences, and ultimately live their lives authentically. After many years living in southern California, Tara, her soulmate honey and her soulmate dog decided they wanted less cars and more trees, prompting a move to Ashland, Oregon where Tara's creating new stories and loving living in a small town with big culture. Likely a Gryffindor or maybe a Ravensclaw but possessed of Parseltongue, Tara loves animals of all kinds, diversity, open minds, coconut crunch ice cream from Zoeys, and her readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 218 reviews
July 30, 2014
Here we go.
Light and fire shot through his hole and into his balls, which were already bubbling with cum. This. Was. It.Cum bubbling balls -- that just does not sound right. Rectal burns, anyone?
"Eeeeeeeowwww." A ribbon of joy burst out of his cock in streams of hot white spunk.
Still kissing, he slid down the zipper on Paris's tight wedding jeans and found a waiting resident primed to escape. Crank that cock. He wrapped his big hand around the hot meat and began to pump.I'm sorry. What's that you're cranking?
Fuck. Mine. Mine. Mine. "Sheeee-it!" Cum exploded out of him so hard it hurt. Oh God. Might die. Blackout. Hot. Great. Yes!Okey dokey.
"Puppppyyyy."
Paris shoved back as Cole hammered forward. Faster and faster. Paris reached up for his cock and Cole slapped his hand. Mine. He grabbed that hard-as-iron dick and cranked it, balancing his body against Paris's. A fucking machine. Nothing ever came close. Werefuckers!Now if you didn't laugh at "werefuckers" I don't know what the fuck is wrong with you.
And finally.
He walked back to the chair and sat. Just read until the club closes. Calm down. He picked up a book of poetry and flipped to Tagore. He usually did the trick.Oh. Yeah. Right. He reads Tagore. For fuck's sake. I know! I've got an idea! In his free time Paris could read the poetry of a 20th century Bengali dude who hung out with fucking Einstein in his free time! That shit will make him look deep. Excellent plan!
March 22, 2015
I pre-ordered this title because I love Tara Lain's writing. I'm not much of a paranormal/shifter reader, but this was fun. Cole is an 'out' gay werewolf, an alphatan (basically alpha material but not yet an alpha). He's strong, the pack's best tracker, etc, so they accept him more or less, they just ignore the 'gay' part. He ends up engaged to the daughter of another pack's alpha, a political marriage that has to take place because both packs are threatened by a stronger one. Cole is prepared to marry the female even though he hates the idea, in order to save his pack.
In steps Paris, the step-brother of Cole's bride-to-be, and a lovely exotic male dancer/loner who is part wolf and part panther and a panther shifter.
What made the story for me was, of course, Tara's smooth storytelling and hot scenes, but also the 'cat' vs 'dog' theme. Cole calls Paris 'kitty' and Paris calls Cole 'puppy' and there's a fun mix of natural antagonism between them as well as very hot attraction. Paris is very much a cat, from his loner ways to the way he moves and acts to what he's like in bed, and Cole is very much of the big-hearted, loyal, sincere pack-loving dog. Very cute.
In steps Paris, the step-brother of Cole's bride-to-be, and a lovely exotic male dancer/loner who is part wolf and part panther and a panther shifter.
What made the story for me was, of course, Tara's smooth storytelling and hot scenes, but also the 'cat' vs 'dog' theme. Cole calls Paris 'kitty' and Paris calls Cole 'puppy' and there's a fun mix of natural antagonism between them as well as very hot attraction. Paris is very much a cat, from his loner ways to the way he moves and acts to what he's like in bed, and Cole is very much of the big-hearted, loyal, sincere pack-loving dog. Very cute.
January 24, 2014
" Here Puppy, Puppy!"
Purrs pussy cat Paris Mercedo to his drooling wolf, Cole Harker! Rawr....
Its official, I have a new book boyfriend and I'm crushing on him like a pimply teenager!!
Paris! Paris! Paris! You sexy little minx. You stole the show for me but I've got to say that was one hell of a fun ride! A fab mix of Wolves and Panthers.
Well, one sexy mother of a Panther hybrid .Mmm mmm! < goes all dreamy>
Sorry, I'm just having a moment with Paris again so talk amongst yourselves for a minute! * sigh*
Okay, back in the game. Where was I! Oh yeah, Tara's first shifter book. Does it tick my boxes?
Is the pope catholic? Does a werewolf shift in the woods? Hell yeah! Before you could say WOOF! I was settled down all nice and cosy with Cole Harker, who ain't no slouch in the yum department himself, my beautiful sex on legs, Paris and the rest of the cast of this ab fab shifter story. I was hooked. Lost in the world of pack politics...Paris pole dancing * drool*...evil gangster shifters... Paris pole dancing *slurp* ...forced betrothals...Paris pole dancing * dribble* ...kidnapping...Paris pole dancing *tingle* ...hot, hot, hot, sex...Paris pole dancing *fans self* ...off the charts sexual tension...Oh, and did I mention... Paris pole dancing!!! Be still my foolish heart...Oh my gawd! I'm having a hot sweat right now just thinking about those scenes and my exclamation points want to let loose so bad right now!
Poor sweet Cole, he's in the worst possible position a gay werewolf could ever be. Son of the Harker pack Alpha and born Alphanta ( a wolf with more abilities and strength than the norm), he's told that to strengthen the alliance against Nikel Eliazer, a nasty piece of work gangster shifter intent on taking over all the packs and their lands, he must marry the neighbouring Alphas daughter, Analiese Mercedo. Neither he nor his intended are happy with the idea but knowing that its their only chance of surviving a possible shifter war he agrees. Plus, despite his size and strength, our lovely Cole is a little lacking in the self confidence department, preferring to be more in the back ground than up front and personal. Which just adds to what makes him pretty damn adoreable.
One night in the local bar, just before the engagement party, Cole and his delightfully flamboyant half human/ half wolf best friend Lindsey are confronted by the most beautiful creature Cole has ever seen, and from his unusually delicious smell its obvious that he's Panther, which is rare. Totally smitten Cole is even more gobsmacked when a couple of nights later, that gorgeous cat turns out to be Paris Mercedo the half brother of his bride to be and is in fact a hybrid wolf/panther mix. Plus its obvious he's gay too, as a pretty heated after party meeting, and a few more after that, proves that this pussy cat has the hots for the big handsome doggie and that feeling is mutual. We're talking mates here of course but it takes a while for a certain feline to accept that!
To cut a long story short, everything goes to hell in a handbasket when his intended bride runs away with her human lover and so starts the Paris and Cole show. Wow, these guys can hardly keep their paws off each other but the path to true love never runs smooth and this hawt couple have more than a few bumps on their way there. Throw in the fact that Mr Nasty (Eliazer) not only wants pack domination but is also majorly obsessed with a certain sexy as hell erotic dancer, who he plans to do unspeakable things to when he gets him in his clutches, and you've got one heck of a story on your hands. I absolutely loved every single minute spent with this! Couldn't put it down. It had surprises, it was fun, it was über smexy and it was just plain fab.
Going back to those pole dancing scenes, and a certain memorable scene involving sex in a tree with one naughty limber cat. Poor, big but 'not so' bad wolf, Cole had no chance! Bless him.
I can't wait now for more adventures with the Harker Pack and I'm hoping its going to be Lindsey's story. He was another absolute sweetie and I can see his book being just as explosive! More...pretty ( purring) please!
January 14, 2014
2.5 Stars
You know what I learned from this? Being mated to a panther sucks donkey balls. It is a fate worse than ... well, not death but something pretty shitty. This book also affirms why I am a dog lover. No offense to all my feline-friendly GR buddies. I love kitties too! I swear, I do! I just didn't like this particular putty-tat.
Cole is a stand-up, honorable, loveable wolf. Unfortunately, he's mated to Paris, an aloof, cold-hearted, selfish panther. Although Paris had his moments ... okay, well, only one comes to mind ... I fairly detested him. He couldn't have been more undeserving of Cole IMO. In fact, I didn't appreciate the Marketo family in general. Sure, mom and pop were alright but Analiese took off with no repercussions or consequences what. So. Ever. Did I feel for her? Sure. Could I understand her running away? Yes. But, jeez, at least face your family and the family of your betrothed. With not so much as a slap on the wrist, the message to me was: Cole is a SUCKER! Which is just plain wrong because he was anything but.
Bottom line: Cole deserved better. I love Tara Lain and will continue with this series when book two hits the shelves. I just hope the next round is cat-free.
You know what I learned from this? Being mated to a panther sucks donkey balls. It is a fate worse than ... well, not death but something pretty shitty. This book also affirms why I am a dog lover. No offense to all my feline-friendly GR buddies. I love kitties too! I swear, I do! I just didn't like this particular putty-tat.
Cole is a stand-up, honorable, loveable wolf. Unfortunately, he's mated to Paris, an aloof, cold-hearted, selfish panther. Although Paris had his moments ... okay, well, only one comes to mind ... I fairly detested him. He couldn't have been more undeserving of Cole IMO. In fact, I didn't appreciate the Marketo family in general. Sure, mom and pop were alright but Analiese took off with no repercussions or consequences what. So. Ever. Did I feel for her? Sure. Could I understand her running away? Yes. But, jeez, at least face your family and the family of your betrothed. With not so much as a slap on the wrist, the message to me was: Cole is a SUCKER! Which is just plain wrong because he was anything but.
Bottom line: Cole deserved better. I love Tara Lain and will continue with this series when book two hits the shelves. I just hope the next round is cat-free.
July 8, 2015
A Hearts On Fire Review
THREE & A HALF HEARTS--Cole Harker is the alphanta of the Harker werewolf pack. What does that mean? He's next in line to lead. He's 6'5", a lawyer, gay and doesn't like to speak in front of crowds - stuttering and nerves all around. But his pack ignores that he is gay because there's a myth werewolves can't be gay. So when an impending attack from gangster werewolf pack is to be expected, Cole must marry the female alphanta of the neighboring Marketo pack, him being gay be damned.
Problem is she runs away but her sexy, seductive exotic dancer of a half brother, Paris. Paris is also gay and knows what he wants. And what he wants is a major piece of Cole up his...I'm getting ahead of myself. :D Paris also has a stalker who is tired of watching from the sidelines and wants a piece of Paris.
This is not my first Tara Lain story. She writes light stories from what I have read from her, humor infused sexy camp with a fluff feel. This story is sort of a mixed bag where the good slightly outweighs the not-so-good.
What worked: I liked both main characters. Cole is a gentle giant who was self sacrificing till the end, a tangle tongue (I'm saying this with affection) who was on the shier side who just wanted someone to love and be loved back. And Paris? He's a stripper hello! He's seductive, stubborn and sly. His characterization was not a deal breaker for me. I liked both guys the entire time. They fit together.
The dirty talking was pretty hot.
How could that line not capture my attention?
The humor when it was on, it could be pretty funny. I smiled.
What didn't work as much: The humor. Tara Lain can come off campy and fun when the one liners hit their mark. And then not as funny when they don't. I've yet to read a solid funny book from this author. It comes and goes with sprinkles of cheesiness.
Both packs answer to Cole's betrothed running off...really? After ignoring Cole being gay, they just readily accept him. Then why make a fuss in the first place? Why not give Cole wanted he wanted from the get go?
The sex was good but repetitive. You could change the scene (which the story did) and they were all reminiscent. Even the near rape scene followed the formula. The sex scenes all starts out the same, two finger lubed salute in the bunghole, insert, thrust and finish. Not saying it wasn't hot at time because for the first two sex scenes, it was steamy.
What gave me pause: Nikel Eliazer is the name of the bad guy of the story. He was creepy sort of sinister in the beginning. Beginning Nikel I liked. For a villain to grab my attention, you need to be thoroughly bad. You don't have to kick puppies for a living but make me believe it. Towards the middle he just was a weak portly man with a weird obsession that I sort of got but I couldn't understand Nikel towards the end. He lost his steam.
I mean imagine you're Baddy McBad-Guy, the baddest man in town and you want something really bad, like so bad you would kill for it kind of bad...you finally get it and you let it get away to save your own skin? If you where that pressed to kill for it, you'd never let go. He sort of wanted power but he came off more resigned to be a villain as opposed to being a believable villain.
Also, the "war" that was hyped to be a war but really was limp fight if anything. The two packs (Marketo and Harker) had to form an alliance to ward off Eliazer's bad guys but knew next to nothing about him. WHAT?! How are you prepping for a war with no intel? If I'm going to war, you can believe I'd know what Baddy McBad-Guy had for breakfast and his meal plan for the next frigging year, that's how far up the other side's ass I'd be. I'd know likes, dislikes, how he started, his bank pin #, his organization, names...every...thing. Nothing would be up for question or late minute surveillance like the main character did in the story. It's almost 50% of the book and they barely know the bad guy's name or his plans. I was disappointed with the war turn out.
And after the fiancee runs away, no one did anything to find out where she was or tried to get her back. If it was so important that she be forced into marriage wouldn't someone try to bring her back. Why did Cole always have to sacrifice himself? It was like the fiancee (who was painted with a bitchy tone) was an afterthought once she exited stage right.
In summary: This was a light story with a predictable plot and some funny moments. Erotic? Yes but also repetitive. It's still not a bad story. The action/suspense was tamer than I thought it would be. And sometimes came off lame. I wished that angle was sharper than what was delivered. Sometimes the talking became a bit much. And some plot points fell off to the wayside. There were interesting secondary characters who I hope star in the next book. *cough*Lindsey*cough* The saving grace for me were the main characters. I liked them, faults and all.
I would read more of this series. Nah...no more for me. :)
THREE & A HALF HEARTS--Cole Harker is the alphanta of the Harker werewolf pack. What does that mean? He's next in line to lead. He's 6'5", a lawyer, gay and doesn't like to speak in front of crowds - stuttering and nerves all around. But his pack ignores that he is gay because there's a myth werewolves can't be gay. So when an impending attack from gangster werewolf pack is to be expected, Cole must marry the female alphanta of the neighboring Marketo pack, him being gay be damned.
Problem is she runs away but her sexy, seductive exotic dancer of a half brother, Paris. Paris is also gay and knows what he wants. And what he wants is a major piece of Cole up his...I'm getting ahead of myself. :D Paris also has a stalker who is tired of watching from the sidelines and wants a piece of Paris.
This is not my first Tara Lain story. She writes light stories from what I have read from her, humor infused sexy camp with a fluff feel. This story is sort of a mixed bag where the good slightly outweighs the not-so-good.
What worked: I liked both main characters. Cole is a gentle giant who was self sacrificing till the end, a tangle tongue (I'm saying this with affection) who was on the shier side who just wanted someone to love and be loved back. And Paris? He's a stripper hello! He's seductive, stubborn and sly. His characterization was not a deal breaker for me. I liked both guys the entire time. They fit together.
The dirty talking was pretty hot.
"I'll be happy to drop these Armani trousers right here, bend myself over that available tree branch, and show that cock of yours where it was meant to be."
How could that line not capture my attention?
The humor when it was on, it could be pretty funny. I smiled.
What didn't work as much: The humor. Tara Lain can come off campy and fun when the one liners hit their mark. And then not as funny when they don't. I've yet to read a solid funny book from this author. It comes and goes with sprinkles of cheesiness.
Both packs answer to Cole's betrothed running off...really? After ignoring Cole being gay, they just readily accept him. Then why make a fuss in the first place? Why not give Cole wanted he wanted from the get go?
The sex was good but repetitive. You could change the scene (which the story did) and they were all reminiscent. Even the near rape scene followed the formula. The sex scenes all starts out the same, two finger lubed salute in the bunghole, insert, thrust and finish. Not saying it wasn't hot at time because for the first two sex scenes, it was steamy.
What gave me pause: Nikel Eliazer is the name of the bad guy of the story. He was creepy sort of sinister in the beginning. Beginning Nikel I liked. For a villain to grab my attention, you need to be thoroughly bad. You don't have to kick puppies for a living but make me believe it. Towards the middle he just was a weak portly man with a weird obsession that I sort of got but I couldn't understand Nikel towards the end. He lost his steam.
I mean imagine you're Baddy McBad-Guy, the baddest man in town and you want something really bad, like so bad you would kill for it kind of bad...you finally get it and you let it get away to save your own skin? If you where that pressed to kill for it, you'd never let go. He sort of wanted power but he came off more resigned to be a villain as opposed to being a believable villain.
Also, the "war" that was hyped to be a war but really was limp fight if anything. The two packs (Marketo and Harker) had to form an alliance to ward off Eliazer's bad guys but knew next to nothing about him. WHAT?! How are you prepping for a war with no intel? If I'm going to war, you can believe I'd know what Baddy McBad-Guy had for breakfast and his meal plan for the next frigging year, that's how far up the other side's ass I'd be. I'd know likes, dislikes, how he started, his bank pin #, his organization, names...every...thing. Nothing would be up for question or late minute surveillance like the main character did in the story. It's almost 50% of the book and they barely know the bad guy's name or his plans. I was disappointed with the war turn out.
And after the fiancee runs away, no one did anything to find out where she was or tried to get her back. If it was so important that she be forced into marriage wouldn't someone try to bring her back. Why did Cole always have to sacrifice himself? It was like the fiancee (who was painted with a bitchy tone) was an afterthought once she exited stage right.
In summary: This was a light story with a predictable plot and some funny moments. Erotic? Yes but also repetitive. It's still not a bad story. The action/suspense was tamer than I thought it would be. And sometimes came off lame. I wished that angle was sharper than what was delivered. Sometimes the talking became a bit much. And some plot points fell off to the wayside. There were interesting secondary characters who I hope star in the next book. *cough*Lindsey*cough* The saving grace for me were the main characters. I liked them, faults and all.
August 20, 2016
No. Just no.
Ok, this started off well. I enjoyed Cole and his perspective, and I'm a big fan of forced-marriages (in fiction, at least), so I was all set to really enjoy this book. Then is just fell to pieces.
Paris is an ass. A selfish ass who whines more than a five year old denied a second helping of cake. He has a family that loves him, and while losing your real mother in childbirth sucks, it does not give you license to treat everyone like they are something to be scraped off your shoe. He treated Cole like shit. And it really fucking pissed me of because Cole was taking it from all sides, and the last thing he needed is his mate to constantly throw hissy fits every time someone asked him to do something. You don't like pack politics, I feel you, you don't want to be forced into marriage, I totally understand, but you do not get to treat the other dude like he is a sex toy--especially after he tells you that he loves you--and then run off.
And Eliazer...he's like a grab bag of villain cliches. Small dick, fat gut, totally insane for no apparent reason. I'm not entirely sure how the dude had brains enough to run a criminal enterprise let alone try and start a pack war. Seriously? At what point did killing everyone who works for you become a good thing? Employee retention has to suck ass because I know if the guy I worked for just started offing people because the sky was blue, or some such rot, I would take myself off to greener, and less insane, pastures. I don't care if the mercenaries were being paid to be bad-ass-mother-fuckers, you'd think at least a few of them would have the brains to off Eliazer and just take the pack for themselves. Or, I don't know, just to get rid of his annoying ass.
By the time the marriage came around I was about ready to consign everyone to a shallow grave. Well, except Cole. I liked Cole...which made it all the worse to see him turn into nothing must a sex-crazed idiot around Paris. I get it, he's hot...but dude, the guy is pretty much going to take your heart and use it as a chew-toy. Do you really think sleeping with him is a good idea? It didn't even feel like revenge sex, it was just pathetic and I skimmed most of it, because even I have some standards.
At best I can give this 2.5 stars, but mostly that is because I feel my frustration slowly leaving me as I write this review. I loved the idea behind this, but the characters just made it a rough, if not bad, sell.
Ok, this started off well. I enjoyed Cole and his perspective, and I'm a big fan of forced-marriages (in fiction, at least), so I was all set to really enjoy this book. Then is just fell to pieces.
Paris is an ass. A selfish ass who whines more than a five year old denied a second helping of cake. He has a family that loves him, and while losing your real mother in childbirth sucks, it does not give you license to treat everyone like they are something to be scraped off your shoe. He treated Cole like shit. And it really fucking pissed me of because Cole was taking it from all sides, and the last thing he needed is his mate to constantly throw hissy fits every time someone asked him to do something. You don't like pack politics, I feel you, you don't want to be forced into marriage, I totally understand, but you do not get to treat the other dude like he is a sex toy--especially after he tells you that he loves you--and then run off.
And Eliazer...he's like a grab bag of villain cliches. Small dick, fat gut, totally insane for no apparent reason. I'm not entirely sure how the dude had brains enough to run a criminal enterprise let alone try and start a pack war. Seriously? At what point did killing everyone who works for you become a good thing? Employee retention has to suck ass because I know if the guy I worked for just started offing people because the sky was blue, or some such rot, I would take myself off to greener, and less insane, pastures. I don't care if the mercenaries were being paid to be bad-ass-mother-fuckers, you'd think at least a few of them would have the brains to off Eliazer and just take the pack for themselves. Or, I don't know, just to get rid of his annoying ass.
By the time the marriage came around I was about ready to consign everyone to a shallow grave. Well, except Cole. I liked Cole...which made it all the worse to see him turn into nothing must a sex-crazed idiot around Paris. I get it, he's hot...but dude, the guy is pretty much going to take your heart and use it as a chew-toy. Do you really think sleeping with him is a good idea? It didn't even feel like revenge sex, it was just pathetic and I skimmed most of it, because even I have some standards.
At best I can give this 2.5 stars, but mostly that is because I feel my frustration slowly leaving me as I write this review. I loved the idea behind this, but the characters just made it a rough, if not bad, sell.
January 12, 2014
3.5
Sexy new shifter series. I really enjoy Lain's writing and this laid a great foundation for stories to come because I cannot wait for Lindsay's!
Cole is a socially awkward alpha in-training who is frequently manipulated by his family for the good of pack. He often puts his wants and needs on the backburner so that others can be protected and flourish. I loved his earnestness and his strong friendship with Lindsay but he's a lonely guy who just wants to have his slice of happiness.
What to say about Paris. He's a cat and it shows and he's perfect for Cole.
Can't wait for book 2!
Sexy new shifter series. I really enjoy Lain's writing and this laid a great foundation for stories to come because I cannot wait for Lindsay's!
Cole is a socially awkward alpha in-training who is frequently manipulated by his family for the good of pack. He often puts his wants and needs on the backburner so that others can be protected and flourish. I loved his earnestness and his strong friendship with Lindsay but he's a lonely guy who just wants to have his slice of happiness.
What to say about Paris. He's a cat and it shows and he's perfect for Cole.
Can't wait for book 2!
January 12, 2014
3.25
Enjoyable new shifter series. Although pretty cliche and predictable, It had a couple of different twists which made it enjoyable. I will be looking for book 2 in the series to see where the author may take this series.
Enjoyable new shifter series. Although pretty cliche and predictable, It had a couple of different twists which made it enjoyable. I will be looking for book 2 in the series to see where the author may take this series.
January 25, 2014
Maybe I'll do a review and maybe I won't. Gonna let it stew for a bit.
January 16, 2014
4.5 stars rounded up because it made me laugh.
The Pack or the Panther is an exciting and new twist on the ever popular paranormal werewolf shifter story. I do believe this is Tara Lain’s first attempt at paranormal and, if so, she did a fantastic job of offering her take on the whole mate for life, pack-life, and werewolf alliances that are so common in the shifter world. I loved the personality that this book exudes. Tara Lain has a way with words that just completely cracks me up.
You can almost feel the larger than life emotions that both Paris (Anthony) and Cole convey throughout the story. Both are alphanta’s, the first sons of Alpha werewolves, and thus have powers that “normal” shifters don’t. Some that even they haven’t shared with their own families…and that makes things pretty interesting a little further down the line.
Cole is an extremely large, extremely strong, and intensely loyal werewolf who is also shy in crowds, gets tongue twisted, and considers himself weird. Sadly, the weirdness he feels was heaped on him by his parents pretending that gay werewolves don’t exist. This causes Cole to feel less-than and unaccepted for the man he is. He knows his family loves him, but he also know that they wish he were different…normal.
Now Paris is the one who should feel different, not Cole. Not only is he gay in a world where they say gay doesn't exist, but he is also a panther shifter with a werewolf father. His father’s true mate happened to be a panther shifter who died giving birth to Paris. Paris, being a feline shifter, is not a pack animal and prefers to be alone. He has no qualms about rejecting the pack because he isn't pack. It’s all about what Paris wants and he isn't afraid to take it...or leave it.
But Paris also has an alter ego as an exotic pole dancer who goes by his real first name, Anthony, and boy is that insanely hot. I had to go to YouTube and look up male pole dancers and what I found is amazing. Anthony has to have the hottest body ever to be able to pull off a feat that impossibly difficult. But unfortunately he’s also got a gangster werewolf stalker who has an unhealthy obsession with him. An evil wolf who is willing to kill, kidnap, rape and cause a wolf war in order to get, and keep, Anthony forever.
There are a lot of mixed emotions, hurt feelings, and plenty of guilt-laying on the parts of the parents of Cole and Paris. They are trying their level best to create an alliance to save their packs, (by forcing an arranged marriage with a female) but at the expense of their kids. They seemed to have forgotten that their kids have feelings and lives too. This causes a rift that may cause permanent scarring and a gap to big to mend.
What I really loved about this story is the personality. I know I mentioned it above, but truly, I don’t know how to convey that this book has a life of its own; one that kept me guessing where it was all going to lead. Hoping that somehow a cat that doesn't mate for life could actually find a lifelong bond with a wolf that does. Yes, we all want that HEA but I especially like when my guys have to work for it. They do have to work for it in this story and yes, they get that elusive happy ending.
I highly recommend for those who like a little chuckle with their hot and steamy werewolf shifters.
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The Pack or the Panther is an exciting and new twist on the ever popular paranormal werewolf shifter story. I do believe this is Tara Lain’s first attempt at paranormal and, if so, she did a fantastic job of offering her take on the whole mate for life, pack-life, and werewolf alliances that are so common in the shifter world. I loved the personality that this book exudes. Tara Lain has a way with words that just completely cracks me up.
You can almost feel the larger than life emotions that both Paris (Anthony) and Cole convey throughout the story. Both are alphanta’s, the first sons of Alpha werewolves, and thus have powers that “normal” shifters don’t. Some that even they haven’t shared with their own families…and that makes things pretty interesting a little further down the line.
Cole is an extremely large, extremely strong, and intensely loyal werewolf who is also shy in crowds, gets tongue twisted, and considers himself weird. Sadly, the weirdness he feels was heaped on him by his parents pretending that gay werewolves don’t exist. This causes Cole to feel less-than and unaccepted for the man he is. He knows his family loves him, but he also know that they wish he were different…normal.
Now Paris is the one who should feel different, not Cole. Not only is he gay in a world where they say gay doesn't exist, but he is also a panther shifter with a werewolf father. His father’s true mate happened to be a panther shifter who died giving birth to Paris. Paris, being a feline shifter, is not a pack animal and prefers to be alone. He has no qualms about rejecting the pack because he isn't pack. It’s all about what Paris wants and he isn't afraid to take it...or leave it.
But Paris also has an alter ego as an exotic pole dancer who goes by his real first name, Anthony, and boy is that insanely hot. I had to go to YouTube and look up male pole dancers and what I found is amazing. Anthony has to have the hottest body ever to be able to pull off a feat that impossibly difficult. But unfortunately he’s also got a gangster werewolf stalker who has an unhealthy obsession with him. An evil wolf who is willing to kill, kidnap, rape and cause a wolf war in order to get, and keep, Anthony forever.
There are a lot of mixed emotions, hurt feelings, and plenty of guilt-laying on the parts of the parents of Cole and Paris. They are trying their level best to create an alliance to save their packs, (by forcing an arranged marriage with a female) but at the expense of their kids. They seemed to have forgotten that their kids have feelings and lives too. This causes a rift that may cause permanent scarring and a gap to big to mend.
What I really loved about this story is the personality. I know I mentioned it above, but truly, I don’t know how to convey that this book has a life of its own; one that kept me guessing where it was all going to lead. Hoping that somehow a cat that doesn't mate for life could actually find a lifelong bond with a wolf that does. Yes, we all want that HEA but I especially like when my guys have to work for it. They do have to work for it in this story and yes, they get that elusive happy ending.
I highly recommend for those who like a little chuckle with their hot and steamy werewolf shifters.
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could-not-finish
July 10, 2019July 2015 M/M Romance group AOM.
CNF @ 34% July 5, 2015
I can't say that the author is a bad writer, I just don't like HOW she tells a story.
I feel as if she is writing for newly-literate adults.
Her style just doesn't agree with me. I feel as if she's using elements of 3rd pers POV combined with elements of 1st pers POV to tell the story. Blech!!
I think she's popular in this genre too.
I can't stand this Panther fellow/MC either. I come from a line of cat-lovers. This panther shifter is the embodiment of every negative stereotype of cats.
I had hoped the panther-shifter would be likable and out-going like Top-Cat from the old "Top-Cat" cartoons or O'Malley, from The Aristocats Disney film.
CNF @ 34% July 5, 2015
I can't say that the author is a bad writer, I just don't like HOW she tells a story.
I feel as if she is writing for newly-literate adults.
Her style just doesn't agree with me. I feel as if she's using elements of 3rd pers POV combined with elements of 1st pers POV to tell the story. Blech!!
I think she's popular in this genre too.
I can't stand this Panther fellow/MC either. I come from a line of cat-lovers. This panther shifter is the embodiment of every negative stereotype of cats.
I had hoped the panther-shifter would be likable and out-going like Top-Cat from the old "Top-Cat" cartoons or O'Malley, from The Aristocats Disney film.
November 23, 2015
Very nearly DNF'd this one. The dialog was cheesy and awkward and I couldn't even begin to care about the story or the MC's. Next!
January 18, 2014
I liked The Pack or the Panther well enough. It had some issues, but I can definitely say that it was freaking addicting. So, my biggest issue? Mainly, humor. Now, most of the dialogue and inner monologue is really funny. I spent a lot of time laughing (or snickering) while I was reading this. However, there were some moments that were so unbearably cheesy. I think the book was trying too hard to be amusing. There were way too many one-liners, and some of them fell short. Really, really short. They should have been cut at some point in the editing process. Maybe it comes down to an issue of taste? I think the humor will be a big factor in whether people love or hate this book. It’s unfortunate, this was a recurring problem for me, and will come up again in this review. Also, the dialogue is a bit info-dumpy in the beginning of the book. It creates some awkward and clunky sentences. Makes the dialogue seem forced at times. However, despite all this, I could not put the book down. I was hooked from the beginning. I started right before bed with the intention of reading the first chapter, and ended up staying awake to finish it.
I liked the story. It is melodrama at it’s finest, and I had a lot of fun reading it. Cole and Paris are all right. I didn’t become particularly attached to them (there needed to be more character development and growth for that to happen), but they are FUN. Especially Paris; I love the way he can make Cole go all flustered like. I don’t want to give the wrong impression. This isn’t fluffy, and the characters are not quite two-dimensional, although, at times they teetered on the edge. There is some character growth, and I appreciate the fact that Cole grows enough to quit being an infuriating doormat and stick up for himself. Even Paris has some important revelations. However, in his case they feel rushed. He has more of an instantaneous change. There isn’t a lot of self-reflection there, and that could be due to the fact that his POV isn’t as prevalent in the book as Cole’s. Both characters have strong, unique personalities. They have their sweet moments, and they have their supremely dense moments as well. It’s their flaws that make them unique, and so different from each other. Their interactions with one another are my favorite moments in the book.
Cole is forced into an arranged marriage with a female werewolf from another pack. It’s a bit of political maneuvering he agrees to go along with, despite the fact that he is Gay, for the sake of his pack, and also because he’s maybe a little bit of a pushover who desperately wants his parents’ approval. His intended (who is also forced into the entirely lame situation) flees, leaving her brother Paris in her place, and the whole thing is thankfully way more complicated than that. I found the whole arranged marriage/werewolf politics part of the story very interesting, although Cole’s parents made me shake with rage. Ugh, they are just horrible blobs of horribleness. It’s a different spin on a common story. As far as shifter stories go this is one of the better ones, in my opinion. As I’ve said before, I want to love them, but they tend to drive me insane. Here, my retina was never in danger of detaching from eye-roll-abuse. I liked the way the mate thing was handled, and my pet peeves were allowed to remain in their restful slumber. So, there is that.
Paris and Cole’s first kiss is hot hot hot. On fire, and up until that point they were delicious with all the steamy tension. Alas, while that kiss set my Kindle ablaze, their first sex scene… not so much. This brings me back to humor being a hit or miss. So many misses. I feel like some of the dialogue was there for comedic purposes, and it just didn’t mesh. (If I’m wrong and they weren’t meant to be funny, well then… damn). Anyway, the sex felt too technical. Combined with corny (to me) moments like:
The combination just made me uncomfortable. It was like the most awkward sex ever, I spent that entire scene hoping it would end quickly.
Overall, this is a quick and fun read. I recommend it if you’re looking for something light and funny. Just, know that some of the funny may have gone awry. I’m giving this 3.5 Stars. I would have gone with 3 if it weren’t for the magical ability to captivate my attention that this book seems to posses. I had no chance of putting it down even though my eyelids were all droopy. I had no choice but to read on! Because, addicting.
*ARC courtesy of Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 Stars
{Click here} to enter the Giveaway!
More reviews at The Morning After Romance
I liked the story. It is melodrama at it’s finest, and I had a lot of fun reading it. Cole and Paris are all right. I didn’t become particularly attached to them (there needed to be more character development and growth for that to happen), but they are FUN. Especially Paris; I love the way he can make Cole go all flustered like. I don’t want to give the wrong impression. This isn’t fluffy, and the characters are not quite two-dimensional, although, at times they teetered on the edge. There is some character growth, and I appreciate the fact that Cole grows enough to quit being an infuriating doormat and stick up for himself. Even Paris has some important revelations. However, in his case they feel rushed. He has more of an instantaneous change. There isn’t a lot of self-reflection there, and that could be due to the fact that his POV isn’t as prevalent in the book as Cole’s. Both characters have strong, unique personalities. They have their sweet moments, and they have their supremely dense moments as well. It’s their flaws that make them unique, and so different from each other. Their interactions with one another are my favorite moments in the book.
Cole is forced into an arranged marriage with a female werewolf from another pack. It’s a bit of political maneuvering he agrees to go along with, despite the fact that he is Gay, for the sake of his pack, and also because he’s maybe a little bit of a pushover who desperately wants his parents’ approval. His intended (who is also forced into the entirely lame situation) flees, leaving her brother Paris in her place, and the whole thing is thankfully way more complicated than that. I found the whole arranged marriage/werewolf politics part of the story very interesting, although Cole’s parents made me shake with rage. Ugh, they are just horrible blobs of horribleness. It’s a different spin on a common story. As far as shifter stories go this is one of the better ones, in my opinion. As I’ve said before, I want to love them, but they tend to drive me insane. Here, my retina was never in danger of detaching from eye-roll-abuse. I liked the way the mate thing was handled, and my pet peeves were allowed to remain in their restful slumber. So, there is that.
Paris and Cole’s first kiss is hot hot hot. On fire, and up until that point they were delicious with all the steamy tension. Alas, while that kiss set my Kindle ablaze, their first sex scene… not so much. This brings me back to humor being a hit or miss. So many misses. I feel like some of the dialogue was there for comedic purposes, and it just didn’t mesh. (If I’m wrong and they weren’t meant to be funny, well then… damn). Anyway, the sex felt too technical. Combined with corny (to me) moments like:
“Fuuuuck. I knew it. I knew you’d be this great. Fuck me, my wolf. Fuck me senseless.” (pg. 75)
The combination just made me uncomfortable. It was like the most awkward sex ever, I spent that entire scene hoping it would end quickly.
Overall, this is a quick and fun read. I recommend it if you’re looking for something light and funny. Just, know that some of the funny may have gone awry. I’m giving this 3.5 Stars. I would have gone with 3 if it weren’t for the magical ability to captivate my attention that this book seems to posses. I had no chance of putting it down even though my eyelids were all droopy. I had no choice but to read on! Because, addicting.
*ARC courtesy of Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 Stars
{Click here} to enter the Giveaway!
More reviews at The Morning After Romance
March 27, 2020
It's difficult enough to grow up in the public eye, everyone expecting so much of you because of who your family is and there's a distinct possibility that you will be top dog some day, but for Cole Parker, of 'The Pack or the Panther', it's even more complicated. Cole has made lots of sacrifices for the good of the pack, but his father's latest request is more unusual than all of the others combined—a political, arranged marriage to secure the safety and unity of two packs. Besides not being allowed to marry for love, Cole is gay and never expected to be with a woman at all, much less married to one. Even so, Cole steps up and agrees to go through with it.
I admired Cole for his loyalty and concern for his family and his community. He's always been dedicated to helping however he can, especially because he's a super wolf, able to accomplish things that other wolves can't—like being able to shift at will instead of only on a full moon. He's bigger and stronger too and his sense of smell is heightened far beyond what the normal wolves can detect. This makes him very valuable to the pack and he feels the pressure of having to perform. He doesn't want to marry Analise, but doesn't expect the strength of her objection to the situation and it depresses him and makes him feel even more undesirable than before. Adding insult to injury, Paris rejects first his affections and then his attempt to secure the safety of the pack by him and Paris being married. Such a nice guy and so much rejection! It broke my heart. Cole isn't able to see how accomplished and what a great leader he can be; but when a crisis arises, he's able to demonstrate those qualities and earn the respect and admiration he deserves.
I wasn't impressed with Paris at all the first time he was introduced. He was condescending at best and the way he treated Cole really set me off. Although their first sexual encounter was spectacularly written, I didn't like the way Paris pretended that it was nothing while Cole is entranced with him. As I learned more about Paris, I began to see why he was so aloof and secretive. It's self-preservation. He had to keep a distance from others in order to ensure a safe environment for himself. It would have been dangerous to let anyone get close. I do think that Paris would have had an easier time if he had stopped wasting so much time on what he didn't want to be and focus on what he actually was, because, like Cole, his self-perception was way off.
The wolves in Tara's story are certainly not your run-of-the mill werewolves. They all had distinct personalities and jobs and some, like Clay's friend, Lindsey, were quite wealthy, not to mention stylish. For all intents and purposes, they are like any extended family with their squabbles, disagreements, expectations, loyalties, and desires. I especially liked that Eliazer, the bad wolf was a gangster. I kept picturing him with a machine gun, stripped suit, and hat, and his underlings as scruffy, unkempt dogs or slimy human mercenaries, which enhanced the image of a huge, sleazy, disgusting, bad guy, not to mention his unbridled lusting after Paris, making me hate him even more. I have to say that I'm not particularly a fan of shifter stories, but Tara, with her skillful writing, vivid imagination, and excellently drawn characters has won me over. I recommend this tale to everyone who likes shifters, hot men, exotic dancing, exquisite sex, and plain down to earth universal wisdom. Thanks, Tara, for the conversion. It was a great surprise.
NOTE: The first edition of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
I admired Cole for his loyalty and concern for his family and his community. He's always been dedicated to helping however he can, especially because he's a super wolf, able to accomplish things that other wolves can't—like being able to shift at will instead of only on a full moon. He's bigger and stronger too and his sense of smell is heightened far beyond what the normal wolves can detect. This makes him very valuable to the pack and he feels the pressure of having to perform. He doesn't want to marry Analise, but doesn't expect the strength of her objection to the situation and it depresses him and makes him feel even more undesirable than before. Adding insult to injury, Paris rejects first his affections and then his attempt to secure the safety of the pack by him and Paris being married. Such a nice guy and so much rejection! It broke my heart. Cole isn't able to see how accomplished and what a great leader he can be; but when a crisis arises, he's able to demonstrate those qualities and earn the respect and admiration he deserves.
I wasn't impressed with Paris at all the first time he was introduced. He was condescending at best and the way he treated Cole really set me off. Although their first sexual encounter was spectacularly written, I didn't like the way Paris pretended that it was nothing while Cole is entranced with him. As I learned more about Paris, I began to see why he was so aloof and secretive. It's self-preservation. He had to keep a distance from others in order to ensure a safe environment for himself. It would have been dangerous to let anyone get close. I do think that Paris would have had an easier time if he had stopped wasting so much time on what he didn't want to be and focus on what he actually was, because, like Cole, his self-perception was way off.
The wolves in Tara's story are certainly not your run-of-the mill werewolves. They all had distinct personalities and jobs and some, like Clay's friend, Lindsey, were quite wealthy, not to mention stylish. For all intents and purposes, they are like any extended family with their squabbles, disagreements, expectations, loyalties, and desires. I especially liked that Eliazer, the bad wolf was a gangster. I kept picturing him with a machine gun, stripped suit, and hat, and his underlings as scruffy, unkempt dogs or slimy human mercenaries, which enhanced the image of a huge, sleazy, disgusting, bad guy, not to mention his unbridled lusting after Paris, making me hate him even more. I have to say that I'm not particularly a fan of shifter stories, but Tara, with her skillful writing, vivid imagination, and excellently drawn characters has won me over. I recommend this tale to everyone who likes shifters, hot men, exotic dancing, exquisite sex, and plain down to earth universal wisdom. Thanks, Tara, for the conversion. It was a great surprise.
NOTE: The first edition of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
April 24, 2014
OH Paris….Paris…Paris!!! *Sigh*
When I finished this book, I immediately sent a friend invite to the author Tara Lain. I wanted her to know I enjoyed this shifter story and loved loved loved Paris! She thanked me and said people either love Paris or hate him, there seems to be no in-between. Well, I am happy to report I am in the “Swooning over Paris” camp! But while i am swooning away I haven’t forgotten Cole, he ain’t too shabby either!
Like the blurb says, Cole has agreed to an arranged marriage with Analiese. Despite the fact he is gay, he is caves into his fathers wishes and help unite two packs by marriage. After Analiese runs off before the marriage, it gives Cole the opportunity to get to know her half brother part wolf, part panther Paris. Paris is all kinds of sexy of course, but he is distant and a loner. While Paris is definitely attracted the Alphanta wolf Cole, and has no problem with having sex with him, he will not give his heart away ever.
Of course others are attracted to Paris as well, specifically one bad gangster who makes a move to keep Paris for himself.
This was exactly what I needed after some so-so reads. It was light, sexy and hawt shifter times! I didn’t have to think, just sit back and enjoy. The writing was good, the story kept me interested and I could feel the chemistry between Cole and Paris.
Paris pole dancing….OMG YES!
When I finished this book, I immediately sent a friend invite to the author Tara Lain. I wanted her to know I enjoyed this shifter story and loved loved loved Paris! She thanked me and said people either love Paris or hate him, there seems to be no in-between. Well, I am happy to report I am in the “Swooning over Paris” camp! But while i am swooning away I haven’t forgotten Cole, he ain’t too shabby either!
Like the blurb says, Cole has agreed to an arranged marriage with Analiese. Despite the fact he is gay, he is caves into his fathers wishes and help unite two packs by marriage. After Analiese runs off before the marriage, it gives Cole the opportunity to get to know her half brother part wolf, part panther Paris. Paris is all kinds of sexy of course, but he is distant and a loner. While Paris is definitely attracted the Alphanta wolf Cole, and has no problem with having sex with him, he will not give his heart away ever.
Of course others are attracted to Paris as well, specifically one bad gangster who makes a move to keep Paris for himself.
This was exactly what I needed after some so-so reads. It was light, sexy and hawt shifter times! I didn’t have to think, just sit back and enjoy. The writing was good, the story kept me interested and I could feel the chemistry between Cole and Paris.
Paris pole dancing….OMG YES!
March 6, 2015
2.5 stars
A nice story, but I felt like there are too many hyperbolic statements that end up to nothing. I meant, things like when a character is supposed to be 'great in scenting', but then easily get ambushed by many enemies. Or, a werewolf gangster who has planned for months to take over an established pack, but doesn't even recognize the alpha heir of that pack.
It also has too many convenient and inconsistent characterization. For instance, in this world, not all wolves have good scenting ability; only alpha does. Yet, when it's convenient and needed by the situation, someone else (i.e., wife of an alpha) has. Another one is the need for formal alliance. So, they cannot fight without it, even when everyone in both packs were ready to fight?
And then, there is Paris. A conveniently hybrid shifter who is cold and warm toward the other main character, Cole. After reading Book 2, I really wonder why he didn't just end up with Lindsey.
A nice story, but I felt like there are too many hyperbolic statements that end up to nothing. I meant, things like when a character is supposed to be 'great in scenting', but then easily get ambushed by many enemies. Or, a werewolf gangster who has planned for months to take over an established pack, but doesn't even recognize the alpha heir of that pack.
It also has too many convenient and inconsistent characterization. For instance, in this world, not all wolves have good scenting ability; only alpha does. Yet, when it's convenient and needed by the situation, someone else (i.e., wife of an alpha) has. Another one is the need for formal alliance. So, they cannot fight without it, even when everyone in both packs were ready to fight?
And then, there is Paris. A conveniently hybrid shifter who is cold and warm toward the other main character, Cole. After reading Book 2, I really wonder why he didn't just end up with Lindsey.
January 23, 2014
Iam not sure if my expectations were to high or if the book was actually as bad as I thought it was. I am a total m/m shifter junkie. After reading all the reviews I was pretty excited to read this:( But the only spark of life I got from this book was my own frustration for forcing myself to finish it. Maybe Ive read so many and now I am being too picky. I hate leaving a bad review as these authors work hard on their books, it just didn't work for me.
January 11, 2014
An exotic male stripper who commands a no-touch policy and he's a feline shifter? Where is this club and how does one get in the door? This is a fun erotic m/m story from the talented Ms. Lain, which rates 3.5 stars for me.
Cole is a dutiful and loyal son. He's dreamy alpha material. His power over his shifting is stronger than most. He's sexy. He's strong. He is a lawyer who doesn't litigate, yet he directs behind the scene to win cases with his strategic skills. He is a sexy shifted wolf. Hello! Where are the women draped all over his hunky body? He's gay. NO! Say it ain't so! Yes, this prime piece of alpha male bats for the other team. Too bad his parents and pack refuse to accept it. They force Cole into a marriage to cement an alliance.
This story is pretty predictable from a plot perspective. Are there any surprises? No. Still, it's told in a smooth manner with good character development and emotional tugging. Cole is stood up by not only his intended, but her half-brother, Paris.
Paris is the exotic stripper who is half-wolf and half-panther. He's outside of the pack for various reasons. Coming home to his sister's wedding and then ending up as the bride-to-be is not in his life plan. Yet, Cole is something Paris desperately wants to take a bite out of.
From a character perspective, this story is engaging. Cole is the white knight who is dumped on and taken for granted. Despite all he has to offer, he's still rejected. One of the more painful lines is when Cole tells both sets of alpha parents, "Apparently marrying me is the worst possible thing any Marketo would ever have to do." (p. 88-89)
Ouch! To be honest, Ms. Lain creates some pretty childish and selfish characters in the Marketo pack. The pack alpha doesn't listen. His daughter is a cowardly oath breaker. His son is a flighty spoiled cock tease. Due to the entire cast of characters, the reader feels sympathy and outrage on Cole's behalf. This kind of emotion generated makes for a more pleasurable reader experience. It makes the story that much more fun to cuss at when angry at a dumbass move by a character, specifically Paris.
Ms. Lain delivers yet another sweet romantic tale with flawed characters, funny dialog and hot sex. Let's discuss the sex. Wow, does she crank up the erotic heat between Paris and Cole! They go at it like animals. She even slips in a little hint of shifter sex near the end. While Paris may want his freedom and break Cole's heart in the process, when the two physically meet, there are no misunderstandings. They ignite the page with their domination play. Which animal will be on top? Kitty or Puppy? It's fun to see the two perform the horizontal tango in the woods, in a room and just about everywhere.
This erotic m/m romance is recommended to paranormal lovers who love a good happily ever after.
November 8, 2015
2.5 stars
Not really what I expected.
Yes, this is a shifter story and there is some mate stuff going on that I liked, but it was also a bit inconsistent.
Cole is a wolf shifter and the son of the alpha. He is also gay, but according to his father there is no such thing as a gay werewolf.
“Give it a break, son. There’s no such thing as a gay werewolf. Why do you think you’re gay?”
Cole walked a step toward his father. “I like men. I want to stick my cock in men’s asses. How much gayer do I need to be to convince you?”
His father arranges for him to marry the daughter of another pack so they can form an alliance. But Cole is more interested in his new bride’s cocky brother. When Cole’s fiancé runs away, the pack needs to come up with another way to bind the two packs.
I liked Cole. I loved the fact that he was a very powerful shifter and he could fight, but was also shy and stuttered when talking in groups.
I had a harder time liking Paris. He was just a tad too cocky for my taste. He pursued Cole when he was still engaged to Paris’ sister. But when they needed to , he ran. He came back, but I didn’t understand why he was suddenly all on board with the plan their parents came up with.
And I also had a hard time believing that true mates existed, but Cole didn’t recognize Paris as such. He realized that it must be true near the end of the book. I like it way more when they recognize the scent of their true mates when they meet. How else are you able to know that the one you have fallen for is indeed your true mate? It was confusing.
And don’t get me all started on the phrases used in this book. I will just refer to Rosa’s review. She collected most of the wonderful prose.
Nice shifter story, but not nice enough.
Not really what I expected.
Yes, this is a shifter story and there is some mate stuff going on that I liked, but it was also a bit inconsistent.
Cole is a wolf shifter and the son of the alpha. He is also gay, but according to his father there is no such thing as a gay werewolf.
“Give it a break, son. There’s no such thing as a gay werewolf. Why do you think you’re gay?”
Cole walked a step toward his father. “I like men. I want to stick my cock in men’s asses. How much gayer do I need to be to convince you?”
His father arranges for him to marry the daughter of another pack so they can form an alliance. But Cole is more interested in his new bride’s cocky brother. When Cole’s fiancé runs away, the pack needs to come up with another way to bind the two packs.
I liked Cole. I loved the fact that he was a very powerful shifter and he could fight, but was also shy and stuttered when talking in groups.
I had a harder time liking Paris. He was just a tad too cocky for my taste. He pursued Cole when he was still engaged to Paris’ sister. But when they needed to , he ran. He came back, but I didn’t understand why he was suddenly all on board with the plan their parents came up with.
And I also had a hard time believing that true mates existed, but Cole didn’t recognize Paris as such. He realized that it must be true near the end of the book. I like it way more when they recognize the scent of their true mates when they meet. How else are you able to know that the one you have fallen for is indeed your true mate? It was confusing.
And don’t get me all started on the phrases used in this book. I will just refer to Rosa’s review. She collected most of the wonderful prose.
Nice shifter story, but not nice enough.
January 11, 2014
Alright, to be honest, story-wise this was okay for me at best. The story is pretty predictable generally, and it pulls out almost all of the clichés to the point of being ridiculous. There's the arranged marriage theme - although it's interestingly a bit separate from the whole oooh, here's my mate and he's my destined partner for ever affair which, by the way, also has a place in this book -, it has the handsome uberwerewolf in Cole who is so incredibly powerful it awes everyone (even though, yes he has weaknesses, for example a bit of social anxiety it seems). There are the parents - well the father really - that don't understand the whole gay thing, there is an absolutely crazy and horrible and cruel villain that has to be defeated, and, of course, the book has the smaller and more feminine, but no less powerful, and of course absolutely gorgeous werepanther Paris as a counterpart to Cole and he's in desperate need of rescuing (literally and metaphorically) - by Cole obviously.
Okay, so I'm sorry, but that constellation, that's pretty awful to me. So why give it still three stars then? Because, one, there were more interesting aspects to this story (the cat-wolf thing wasn't so bad, especially since it was so obvious in the characters' behaviours), and, two, after I got over the first half of the story, Cole and Paris did manage to lure me in somehow. I'm not sure why, but there was something to them, how they dealt with each other. There was some real chemistry and emotion here and it definitely saved the whole book for me.
So a three star read in the end, but I'm not sure if I really can recommend it. Maybe if the first half of this review doesn't sound too bad to you.
Okay, so I'm sorry, but that constellation, that's pretty awful to me. So why give it still three stars then? Because, one, there were more interesting aspects to this story (the cat-wolf thing wasn't so bad, especially since it was so obvious in the characters' behaviours), and, two, after I got over the first half of the story, Cole and Paris did manage to lure me in somehow. I'm not sure why, but there was something to them, how they dealt with each other. There was some real chemistry and emotion here and it definitely saved the whole book for me.
So a three star read in the end, but I'm not sure if I really can recommend it. Maybe if the first half of this review doesn't sound too bad to you.
July 19, 2017
Well, I don’t often give five star ratings for books. Even if I really enjoy a book, it’s usually just four stars, so I can differentiate when I really, truly loved something. And I can say, I LOVED this book! What a really well written shifter story! So different from the mass produced, generic stories we usually get from the genre. Lots of romance, sexy times, intensity and sweetness. I loved the gentle but alpha paradox that is Cole; who has trouble speaking in groups but knows how to handle the baddies. His angst level as he courted the kitty he craved was palpable. His feelings of no one wanting him, and of him being a freak, ahh, that’s the stuff of a good romance novel! And that arrogant but still lovable (very feline of him) Paris, who knows how to handle a crowd but is stymied at one little ‘puppy’ shifter and his sincerity was a blast to read. I really can’t wait to read more by this author, and of course of this series! And this is the first shifter book I’ve read where I saw the expression ‘kitty c*ck’. Hrm…
An absolute winner in my mind-loved it!!
An absolute winner in my mind-loved it!!
May 26, 2020
Hot, exciting, romantic!
This title is the series starter in Harker Pack. It's a Paranormal MM Shifter Romance Series and it can be read as a standalone or part of the series. The series revolves around Wolf Shifter Packs. There's a HEA like in all the books in this series and each book has different main couple though we'll see these main characters also in other books of the series as side characters.
This was a reread of an oldie series that's been republished by the author herself this time around and also issued new covers.
I really love Tara Lain writing!
And oh how I loved these. Cole and Paris make a hot couple that support each other. Marvellous fun!
There are on offer here to be enjoyed a hot as hell cat - think of it as a classic cat on a hot tin roof styled male cat so worth whistling at, hot guys in general, wild forbidden attraction, action, romance, Hot Stuff, excitement, angst, parents and pack to be pleased and pack politics, plot turns, evil villains and their plots to be vanquished, problems to be solved. Cats in Distress to be Saved even. For me it's such classic. I love this style of shifter and PNR MM story.
What more can one want? 😍
All packed up in Tara Lain classic writing style! YAY!
One especially positive thing I have to extoll ...
I really, really enjoy the non-omega type of wolf shifter stories much more. Call me a classics lover if you will, we all like and love what we do and I do love this ♥️
This title is the series starter in Harker Pack. It's a Paranormal MM Shifter Romance Series and it can be read as a standalone or part of the series. The series revolves around Wolf Shifter Packs. There's a HEA like in all the books in this series and each book has different main couple though we'll see these main characters also in other books of the series as side characters.
This was a reread of an oldie series that's been republished by the author herself this time around and also issued new covers.
I really love Tara Lain writing!
And oh how I loved these. Cole and Paris make a hot couple that support each other. Marvellous fun!
There are on offer here to be enjoyed a hot as hell cat - think of it as a classic cat on a hot tin roof styled male cat so worth whistling at, hot guys in general, wild forbidden attraction, action, romance, Hot Stuff, excitement, angst, parents and pack to be pleased and pack politics, plot turns, evil villains and their plots to be vanquished, problems to be solved. Cats in Distress to be Saved even. For me it's such classic. I love this style of shifter and PNR MM story.
What more can one want? 😍
All packed up in Tara Lain classic writing style! YAY!
One especially positive thing I have to extoll ...
I really, really enjoy the non-omega type of wolf shifter stories much more. Call me a classics lover if you will, we all like and love what we do and I do love this ♥️
February 27, 2019
Right, full disclosure - I haven't read a Tara Lain book before, and I kind of wish this hadn't been my first venture. But, it had to be, because I'm due to read/review a book related to this series and I was warned in advance that I had to read this series first, to understand the one I'd signed up to review.
In all honesty, I LOVED the sound of the book, from the blurb. BUT, it didn't live up to expectations. I expected Cole to fall for Paris but for Paris to not be interested in him, ever. Instead, I got an insta-lust relationship and very little angst between the two MC's.
When it comes to the MC's, I liked both Cole and Paris. Cole is shy, awkward and atypical for a wolf and a big burly physique, being a gay werewolf which his pack don't even recognise exist. Paris is a bit more of a predator, preying on Cole from day 1, despite Cole's engagement to his sister. Cole, for what it's worth, at least tries to resist at first. However, the relationship is sudden - Cole falls head over heels, while Paris just wants some fun.
I didn't like the author's writing style, at all. I'm NOT a fan of sounds/howls etc being written out, or those accentuated words like Ahooooooooooooooo. <- Not joking, that is literally the last line of the book. I got sick of reading them after just a few pages. And the book, despite being 5 years old by the time I first picked it up, is littered with editing issues.
So, while I generally liked the main story and Cole and Paris' eventual relationship, there was a lot I didn't like. Enough that I couldn't bump this up to a 3*, despite the fact that I have to read the other two books in the series, even though I don't really want to.
* I wanted at least the illusion of world building, but there was none. It was literally "they're werewolves" and that was supposed to explain everything. No self-respecting werewolf would call their actions 'wolfiness' and it took far too long to explain what the heck 'alphata' meant. Is Alpha not good enough?
* I had no idea what the Prologue was about, or what it had to do with anything, but introducing me immediately to the bad guy of the story, who is threatening to RAPE someone - on page ONE - is not my idea of endearing me to the book, the author, or the characters.
* The plotting is choppy and often doesn't flow or make that much sense.
* The sex is RIDICULOUS. It's everywhere. I got so sick of reading all the sex scenes. For a book less than 200 pages, it was WAY too much. And the "sexy talk" was NOT sexy, at all. Terms like 'crank that' and 'back door' were more likely to make me gag than pant.
* I CANNOT EVEN TELL YOU HOW MANY TIMES I ROLLED MY EYES! The writing was just that...cheesy. I can't figure out the right word for it, but it was bad. It was corny, old fashioned, full of gross slang and the MC's calling each other 'puppy' and 'cat'.
* I DID NOT SIGN UP TO READ ABOUT RAPE. Sorry, but no. Especially not in the POV of the actual rapist.
and my final, petty grievance....
* I have no idea why Chapter 7 was one page, when Chapter 8 picked up exactly where it left off, in the same POV. I mean, that made no sense and was just another sign of why me and this author don't get along.
With a whole lot of slip-shod non-world-building, and on page rape, a lack of characterisation, a lack of background, attention to detail or even the simplest attempt at setting, the book lacked everything it needed to make it a story. If it wasn't for the fact that I actually liked Cole and Paris, I would never have finished the book. It's a Meh story, with not much substances and a shit load of unnecessary sex. I seriously hope the rest of the series is better, because now that I know what this series/author's style is like, I won't be forcing myself to keep the faith and hope it improves with the next one. I might end up DNF'ing the whole friggin' lot, at this rate.
In all honesty, I LOVED the sound of the book, from the blurb. BUT, it didn't live up to expectations. I expected Cole to fall for Paris but for Paris to not be interested in him, ever. Instead, I got an insta-lust relationship and very little angst between the two MC's.
When it comes to the MC's, I liked both Cole and Paris. Cole is shy, awkward and atypical for a wolf and a big burly physique, being a gay werewolf which his pack don't even recognise exist. Paris is a bit more of a predator, preying on Cole from day 1, despite Cole's engagement to his sister. Cole, for what it's worth, at least tries to resist at first. However, the relationship is sudden - Cole falls head over heels, while Paris just wants some fun.
I didn't like the author's writing style, at all. I'm NOT a fan of sounds/howls etc being written out, or those accentuated words like Ahooooooooooooooo. <- Not joking, that is literally the last line of the book. I got sick of reading them after just a few pages. And the book, despite being 5 years old by the time I first picked it up, is littered with editing issues.
So, while I generally liked the main story and Cole and Paris' eventual relationship, there was a lot I didn't like. Enough that I couldn't bump this up to a 3*, despite the fact that I have to read the other two books in the series, even though I don't really want to.
* I wanted at least the illusion of world building, but there was none. It was literally "they're werewolves" and that was supposed to explain everything. No self-respecting werewolf would call their actions 'wolfiness' and it took far too long to explain what the heck 'alphata' meant. Is Alpha not good enough?
* I had no idea what the Prologue was about, or what it had to do with anything, but introducing me immediately to the bad guy of the story, who is threatening to RAPE someone - on page ONE - is not my idea of endearing me to the book, the author, or the characters.
* The plotting is choppy and often doesn't flow or make that much sense.
* The sex is RIDICULOUS. It's everywhere. I got so sick of reading all the sex scenes. For a book less than 200 pages, it was WAY too much. And the "sexy talk" was NOT sexy, at all. Terms like 'crank that' and 'back door' were more likely to make me gag than pant.
* I CANNOT EVEN TELL YOU HOW MANY TIMES I ROLLED MY EYES! The writing was just that...cheesy. I can't figure out the right word for it, but it was bad. It was corny, old fashioned, full of gross slang and the MC's calling each other 'puppy' and 'cat'.
* I DID NOT SIGN UP TO READ ABOUT RAPE. Sorry, but no. Especially not in the POV of the actual rapist.
and my final, petty grievance....
* I have no idea why Chapter 7 was one page, when Chapter 8 picked up exactly where it left off, in the same POV. I mean, that made no sense and was just another sign of why me and this author don't get along.
With a whole lot of slip-shod non-world-building, and on page rape, a lack of characterisation, a lack of background, attention to detail or even the simplest attempt at setting, the book lacked everything it needed to make it a story. If it wasn't for the fact that I actually liked Cole and Paris, I would never have finished the book. It's a Meh story, with not much substances and a shit load of unnecessary sex. I seriously hope the rest of the series is better, because now that I know what this series/author's style is like, I won't be forcing myself to keep the faith and hope it improves with the next one. I might end up DNF'ing the whole friggin' lot, at this rate.
October 26, 2015
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
4 Stars Story
4 Stars Narration
Cole Harker is the son of the Alpha and the expected next Alpha of the Harker Pack. All his life he has done what has been asked of him, particularly if it benefits the pack. His parents latest request, or rather order, is to marry the Alpha daughter from a nearby pack. This alliance will bring pack strength and protection from a powerful gangster trying to encroach on their lands.
There is only one problem with their plan - Cole is a gay werewolf. As one of very few gay werewolves his parents and the pack tend to ignore this fact and have no problems arranging a marriage for him to a female. Although Cole initially protests the idea he backs down and agrees as he always puts the pack first.
Imagine his surprise when he meets his future wife’s half brother and so intensely attracted to him he can barely breathe.
Paris is half werewolf, half panther and a bit of an enigma within his pack. Taking on his panther traits he prefers solitude and has virtually removed himself from pack life. Returning home for his sister’s wedding he is instantly attracted to her fiancé, who is obviously gay and being pushed into marriage. When his sister runs off with her lover finally putting an end to the arranged marriage Paris is free to pursue Cole and they end up in bed together.
For Paris it is just sex, for Cole it is everything.
Paris leaves to return to his lonely life and job as a dancer but it seems the gangster has his finger in many pies. The same man intent on taking over pack lands is also intent on owning Paris and using him for his own sadistic needs. When Paris disappears Cole is left frantic and determined to find the man, who he is convinced is his mate, before it is too late.
Their parents having not learned their lesson the first time plan yet another arranged marriage that leaves Paris feeling out of sorts and Cole heartsick. Cole has to find the strength to lead his pack in a war to protect their lands and lives all the time wondering how he can keep the man he loves. Paris has one more secret to reveal and it may be the one that will keep him around.
Narration
Max Lehen is a bit of an enigma for me. I either love him or hate him and there doesn’t seem to be any pattern to it. For this narration he was perfect and I really enjoyed his narration.
4 Stars Story
4 Stars Narration
Cole Harker is the son of the Alpha and the expected next Alpha of the Harker Pack. All his life he has done what has been asked of him, particularly if it benefits the pack. His parents latest request, or rather order, is to marry the Alpha daughter from a nearby pack. This alliance will bring pack strength and protection from a powerful gangster trying to encroach on their lands.
There is only one problem with their plan - Cole is a gay werewolf. As one of very few gay werewolves his parents and the pack tend to ignore this fact and have no problems arranging a marriage for him to a female. Although Cole initially protests the idea he backs down and agrees as he always puts the pack first.
Imagine his surprise when he meets his future wife’s half brother and so intensely attracted to him he can barely breathe.
Paris is half werewolf, half panther and a bit of an enigma within his pack. Taking on his panther traits he prefers solitude and has virtually removed himself from pack life. Returning home for his sister’s wedding he is instantly attracted to her fiancé, who is obviously gay and being pushed into marriage. When his sister runs off with her lover finally putting an end to the arranged marriage Paris is free to pursue Cole and they end up in bed together.
For Paris it is just sex, for Cole it is everything.
Paris leaves to return to his lonely life and job as a dancer but it seems the gangster has his finger in many pies. The same man intent on taking over pack lands is also intent on owning Paris and using him for his own sadistic needs. When Paris disappears Cole is left frantic and determined to find the man, who he is convinced is his mate, before it is too late.
Their parents having not learned their lesson the first time plan yet another arranged marriage that leaves Paris feeling out of sorts and Cole heartsick. Cole has to find the strength to lead his pack in a war to protect their lands and lives all the time wondering how he can keep the man he loves. Paris has one more secret to reveal and it may be the one that will keep him around.
Narration
Max Lehen is a bit of an enigma for me. I either love him or hate him and there doesn’t seem to be any pattern to it. For this narration he was perfect and I really enjoyed his narration.
May 5, 2018
Speechless
If you know anything about me, you know I'm rarely short on words. It's a curse. That said, I'm going to let this book speak for itself ... mostly.
NSFW to follow:
Yep. Speechless. This is me right now ...
Mm-hmm. Read on werefuckers!
More reviews by NeRdyWYRM can be found on Goodreads here.
Images (when present) may be subject to copyright.
If you know anything about me, you know I'm rarely short on words. It's a curse. That said, I'm going to let this book speak for itself ... mostly.
NSFW to follow:
Yep. Speechless. This is me right now ...
Mm-hmm. Read on werefuckers!
More reviews by NeRdyWYRM can be found on Goodreads here.
Images (when present) may be subject to copyright.
April 17, 2020
I really enjoyed the beginning of this book and my heart felt for Cole. I totally understood the difficult decision he had to make about his own personal happiness or saving his pack from an upcoming war. I was really excited to see where this book would go. Unfortunately I wasn't as crazy about the other MC Paris. He was just to selfish for me to like him. I'm okay with the fact that he wanted to be independent and didn't want to get involved with pack politics especially since he wasn't raised in the pack. However, the way he treats Cole was horrible especially once he knew how Cole felt about him. It felt like he was fine with using him and walking away without once thinking about Cole's feelings. The second issue I had with this book was the villain. He was just so OTT. He was an idiot, drug using wolf who had ruined his sense of smell using drugs and all he really cared about was getting Paris. I just didn't believe that he had the ability to lead a group of wolves and why they would follow someone who was crazy and willing to kill his own wolves if things didn't go his way. I want to be afraid of my villains but in this case I just thought he was a loser and really dumb. I never really worried that Cole or Paris or any of the wolves in their packs were in that much danger.
April 17, 2014
Can I just say that I am very glad that there will be more about the Harker Pack in the future because I would have been very upset if there weren't. I really loved this story, it was hot, sexy and intense. As usual Tara writes interesting and intriguing characters that you wish you could meet in real life, but I felt really sorry for Cole most of the way through it because of the way the pack treated him. So glad it had a happy ending for him (and it came with a little twist that made me smile a lot). As for Paris he was a wonderful character and Tara managed to make me see him in all his feline glory. To top it off there was a villain who was well worth reading about, he wasn't just a token baddy he was a truly, truly awful man. To make the story even more interesting was the clever use of the cat v dog scenario between Paris and Cole with plenty of raised hackles and appropriate nicknames. If you have ever liked any of Tara's previous stories then you need to add this one to your collection!
January 21, 2014
First I want to say
God knows how much I want to read Tara Lain's books. And I was so glad this book came to email box! Also it been a while since I read MM Romance Novels.
If we pass on the book, first sentences hooked me all over.
THE MALE’S fat cock stretched out in his suit pants.
Oh,my ****! I cannot believe a book started like that!! I was screaming in my mind '' OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG !!!! ''
I didn't read so much gay werewolfs but I'm soo loving them!
And I loved The Pack or the Panther well enough.
Also,GOD! I have a weakness for a men named PARIS!
They are just...come on!! Look at the name!! All name screams ''I'M SEXY'' !!!
Paris and Cole’s first kiss is hot hot hot. While I was reading I was on FIRE!
I spent all night for reading and it was totally worth it!
God knows how much I want to read Tara Lain's books. And I was so glad this book came to email box! Also it been a while since I read MM Romance Novels.
If we pass on the book, first sentences hooked me all over.
THE MALE’S fat cock stretched out in his suit pants.
Oh,my ****! I cannot believe a book started like that!! I was screaming in my mind '' OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG !!!! ''
I didn't read so much gay werewolfs but I'm soo loving them!
And I loved The Pack or the Panther well enough.
Also,GOD! I have a weakness for a men named PARIS!
They are just...come on!! Look at the name!! All name screams ''I'M SEXY'' !!!
Paris and Cole’s first kiss is hot hot hot. While I was reading I was on FIRE!
I spent all night for reading and it was totally worth it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2015
I wish I was at home, so that I could quote some of this stuff.
A couple of my favorites was, the cum shooting out like water from a water hose, or the ones about the elephant cock.
The dirty talk was shamefully bad. Please, I'd rather there was just grunting. The dirty talk just made me stop...wtf? Really? I love dirty talk, but bad dirty talk....just no.
This did have potential. The dirty talk, and the horrible description during sex completely took me out of the story.
Also the story line wrapped up as soon as it got started.
I wanted to like this, and there were aspects that I liked.
But, no...I just can't.
A couple of my favorites was, the cum shooting out like water from a water hose, or the ones about the elephant cock.
The dirty talk was shamefully bad. Please, I'd rather there was just grunting. The dirty talk just made me stop...wtf? Really? I love dirty talk, but bad dirty talk....just no.
This did have potential. The dirty talk, and the horrible description during sex completely took me out of the story.
Also the story line wrapped up as soon as it got started.
I wanted to like this, and there were aspects that I liked.
But, no...I just can't.
January 21, 2016
OMG... the end... loved it!
Cole ist der nächste Alpha des Harker Packs und gay. Für eine Allianz gegen einen mächtigen Feind lässt er sich überreden die Tochter des Marketo Packs zu heiraten. Auf der Verlobungsfeier hat Cole allerdings mehr Interesse an ihrem Halbbruder Paris, der halb Panther ist und erotischer Tänzer.
Mir hat gut gefallen, dass es nicht nur darum ging ob Cole und Paris sich kriegen. Cole und Paris sind ein sexy Paar, aber die Bedrohung durch einen verrückten machthungrigen Alpha für das Pack und Paris gab einen extra Stern.
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