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Mackenzie Duncan #1
The Tempering
The Mythology department at prestigious Harvard University is tiny—and Mackenzie Duncan has just been selected as one of the lucky few. Her love for myths and legends is strong, but she never thought any of it could be real. After being attacked by a large wolf while walking home alone, Mackenzie realizes something is not right. She heals quickly, is suddenly super strong, and is experiencing mood swings that can't possibly be normal. The myths she's studying aren't myths at all. Werewolves are real and she's one of them. Fear of what she is, and who she might hurt sends Mackenzie running from the life she’s worked hard to build–and straight into the arms of a handsome Were named Geoff and into the home of his pack. Living with her new pack takes the edge off her confusion and self-loathing, but the arrival of new pack members changes the dynamic, and tests Geoff and Mackenzie’s growing relationship. The hardest part of being a werewolf is having no control and no memory of her time as a blood thirsty beast. When a moon cycle passes and she actually remembers bits and pieces of the night, she starts to ask questions, and the more questions she asks, the more she realizes she doesn't like the answers. Can she set aside her own sense of morals to belong to a pack that is like a family or will she leave everything behind yet again in search of a life she can be proud of?
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 11, 2013
15 people are currently reading
570 people want to read
About the author
Adrianne James
12 books149 followersGrowing up, Adrianne couldn't get her hands on enough books to satisfy her need for the make believe. If she finished a novel and didn't have a new one ready and waiting for her, she began to create her own tales of magic and wonder. Now, as an adult, books still make up majority of her free time, and now her tales get written down to be shared with the world.
During the day, Adrianne uses her camera to capture life's stories for clients of all ages and at night, after her two children are tucked in bed; she devotes herself to her written work. Adrianne is living the life she always wanted, surrounded by art and beauty, the written word and a loving family.
As a young adult and new adult author, Adrianne James has plans to bring stories of growing characters, a little romance, and perhaps a little magic and mythology down the line for her readers to enjoy.
During the day, Adrianne uses her camera to capture life's stories for clients of all ages and at night, after her two children are tucked in bed; she devotes herself to her written work. Adrianne is living the life she always wanted, surrounded by art and beauty, the written word and a loving family.
As a young adult and new adult author, Adrianne James has plans to bring stories of growing characters, a little romance, and perhaps a little magic and mythology down the line for her readers to enjoy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
September 29, 2013
(Originally Posted on http://www.theyalitchick.blogspot.com)
There are so many books out there that involve werewolves, and since most of them follow the lore, it is hard to create a werewolf novel that is unique. But, oh my, was James able to put together a great one. I faced The Tempering head on, and I am not too proud to admit that I was bitten.
Mackenzie is a great protagonist. She is strong, funny, and completely kills the annoying whiny in-love female character stereotype. She has a temper, but this just adds to her likeability, as no one wants a character who is completely perfect in every way. Mackenzie is much more easy to connect to, as well is a great role model.
Normally, I am not a fan of love triangles (V's. Unless we are talking Twelfth Night, it's more of a V.) but I actually didn't mind it in The Tempering. Both Geoff and Liam are excellent characters. Geoff has that mysterious, forbidden kind of heat that grows from the beginning. Liam is funny and sweet, and I absolutely loved the growth of his relationship with Mackenzie. I found myself unable to completely choose between the two of them, and really got tied into the romance. (I do have a favorite, but I am going to avoid being biased here.)
The Tempering uses a lot of lore, which adds to the plot of werewolves in a way that many other books cannot. The background and history of the werewolves that was included definitely was a bonus - as I love learning more about that. The story itself is suspenseful, with a lot of action that keeps the pages constantly turning.
From the very first page, The Tempering is captivating, and will hold that intrigue until the very ending. I am very excited to read more of the series, especially with the fast-paced, exciting cliff-hanger of an ending. I highly recommend The Tempering, especially to fans of paranormal.
There are so many books out there that involve werewolves, and since most of them follow the lore, it is hard to create a werewolf novel that is unique. But, oh my, was James able to put together a great one. I faced The Tempering head on, and I am not too proud to admit that I was bitten.
Mackenzie is a great protagonist. She is strong, funny, and completely kills the annoying whiny in-love female character stereotype. She has a temper, but this just adds to her likeability, as no one wants a character who is completely perfect in every way. Mackenzie is much more easy to connect to, as well is a great role model.
Normally, I am not a fan of love triangles (V's. Unless we are talking Twelfth Night, it's more of a V.) but I actually didn't mind it in The Tempering. Both Geoff and Liam are excellent characters. Geoff has that mysterious, forbidden kind of heat that grows from the beginning. Liam is funny and sweet, and I absolutely loved the growth of his relationship with Mackenzie. I found myself unable to completely choose between the two of them, and really got tied into the romance. (I do have a favorite, but I am going to avoid being biased here.)
The Tempering uses a lot of lore, which adds to the plot of werewolves in a way that many other books cannot. The background and history of the werewolves that was included definitely was a bonus - as I love learning more about that. The story itself is suspenseful, with a lot of action that keeps the pages constantly turning.
From the very first page, The Tempering is captivating, and will hold that intrigue until the very ending. I am very excited to read more of the series, especially with the fast-paced, exciting cliff-hanger of an ending. I highly recommend The Tempering, especially to fans of paranormal.
December 21, 2013
Mackenzie Duncan is a freshman at Harvard University studying mythology & folklore, and seemingly off to a great start. That is until on the way home from a football game when she is attacked by a wolf. From that day forward, Mackenzie's life is never the same again...
She loses her job, drops out of a prestigious university, and starts to develop strange symptoms. Mackenzie has become a werewolf.
She runs away, afraid of what she has become, and afraid to hurt the ones around her. In her travels she meets a new family, who have all the answers and swear to protect her. Among the family, a man named Geoff, who makes her feel safer than she had since before her world was turned upside down.
But Mackenzie is unable to control her instincts, and soon the bitten becomes the biter, and she sires a man named Liam.
Now Mackenzie is caught within a love triangle, and she has to make the choice between Geoff and Liam.
This was my first werewolf romance, and it was certainly a nice change of pace! Introducing Liam into the story was a twist I did not expect. I'm torn as to who I want to see Mackenzie with. I'm very curious to see where Adrianne James will take her readers with that. I loved the drama between Mackenzie, Geoff, and Liam and hope it continues into the next story. All of the werewolf politics were a nice added touch.
The Tempering by Adrianne James blew me away. 5 stars!
***I received an E-Copy of this book from the Author's publicist for a fair & honest review.
She loses her job, drops out of a prestigious university, and starts to develop strange symptoms. Mackenzie has become a werewolf.
She runs away, afraid of what she has become, and afraid to hurt the ones around her. In her travels she meets a new family, who have all the answers and swear to protect her. Among the family, a man named Geoff, who makes her feel safer than she had since before her world was turned upside down.
But Mackenzie is unable to control her instincts, and soon the bitten becomes the biter, and she sires a man named Liam.
Now Mackenzie is caught within a love triangle, and she has to make the choice between Geoff and Liam.
This was my first werewolf romance, and it was certainly a nice change of pace! Introducing Liam into the story was a twist I did not expect. I'm torn as to who I want to see Mackenzie with. I'm very curious to see where Adrianne James will take her readers with that. I loved the drama between Mackenzie, Geoff, and Liam and hope it continues into the next story. All of the werewolf politics were a nice added touch.
The Tempering by Adrianne James blew me away. 5 stars!
***I received an E-Copy of this book from the Author's publicist for a fair & honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 13, 2013
The Tempering is amazing and completely addicting! It only took me a couple of hours to read. From the very first page I was carried away into the (new-to-me) world of werewolves. I was not let down and cannot wait to read more about them! I am now a huge fan of Adrianne James and her books. Adrianne is able to captivate her readers with her amazing character, plot and scenery descriptions. She makes her reader feel the emotions and turmoil that swirl through her characters at any given minute and the roller coaster ride of love, grief, sense of family and belonging is worth every second of your time. I loved Mackenzie! She is a very strong willed and beautiful girl who would never let anyone tell her she could not or would not make anything of herself and her life. I truly believe she will make a name for herself in this new found family and world... I am so excited for the next book, I cannot wait to read on! Thank you so much Adrianne for a wonderful book and your amazing writing talent!
December 16, 2013
Interesting.
Mackenzie is our girl that we're following for the book.
We witness a small piece of her before she is brutally bitten in a park late at night.
A unique take on how Were's are turned and the turning process and the rules between born and bitten.
Mack (as she becomes to be known in the California Pack that take her in) still dreads her Wolf night as she cant remember it, and has done more than kill just an animal.
She does actually turn someone on one of her early cycles and is horrified and riddled with guilt. She tries to be the "sire" that she was denied as the wolf ran off and left her to it.
Between her and Geoff there is an instant connection, which is constantly denied to Mack, but not for the reasons she thinks.
A bit of a twist at the end, leading nicely into the next book with Mack taking a very different path than she thought she would be when she thought she found her home with Margaret and the others.....
Reviewed on behalf of "Mark My Words" publicity tour for an honest review
Mackenzie is our girl that we're following for the book.
We witness a small piece of her before she is brutally bitten in a park late at night.
A unique take on how Were's are turned and the turning process and the rules between born and bitten.
Mack (as she becomes to be known in the California Pack that take her in) still dreads her Wolf night as she cant remember it, and has done more than kill just an animal.
She does actually turn someone on one of her early cycles and is horrified and riddled with guilt. She tries to be the "sire" that she was denied as the wolf ran off and left her to it.
Between her and Geoff there is an instant connection, which is constantly denied to Mack, but not for the reasons she thinks.
A bit of a twist at the end, leading nicely into the next book with Mack taking a very different path than she thought she would be when she thought she found her home with Margaret and the others.....
Reviewed on behalf of "Mark My Words" publicity tour for an honest review
January 14, 2014
Received this book through a Goodreads giveaway.
Brief impressions: Pretty quick read, doesn't require too much brainpower to figure out what's going on and stay involved with the plot. The whole idea of the werewolves in the book is a pretty classic one as well - the author doesn't try to insert some arbitrary, unreasonable 'restrictions' into the classic werewolf myth which I appreciated. Healthy dose of both action (to some degree gore as well) and romance - I personally thought this was well balanced. Protagonist is generally believable although at times her wavering between the two main male characters can get irritating. Main detractor of the book is that I noticed spelling/grammatical errors throughout the book that actively took away from my experience - use of "to" and not "too" or "barley" instead of "barely," etc. Four stars for a quick enjoyable read and I will be reading the next book in the series.
Brief impressions: Pretty quick read, doesn't require too much brainpower to figure out what's going on and stay involved with the plot. The whole idea of the werewolves in the book is a pretty classic one as well - the author doesn't try to insert some arbitrary, unreasonable 'restrictions' into the classic werewolf myth which I appreciated. Healthy dose of both action (to some degree gore as well) and romance - I personally thought this was well balanced. Protagonist is generally believable although at times her wavering between the two main male characters can get irritating. Main detractor of the book is that I noticed spelling/grammatical errors throughout the book that actively took away from my experience - use of "to" and not "too" or "barley" instead of "barely," etc. Four stars for a quick enjoyable read and I will be reading the next book in the series.
September 11, 2013
Go buy this book! NOW! Mackenzie Duncan is a normal college freshman with a very abnormal interest in paranormal mythology (to the point that it's her major at Harvard!) From the get-go, she's like a little ball of fire. I love a strong female lead and The Tempering has just that! Adrianne James does a great job at showing a young woman go through a horrific change and coming out the other side as stronger, and more mature. I don't want to give anything away, but Mac is exactly the kind of heroine that makes me fall in love with her-- and I'm not the only one. Hot.Male.Wolves. That's alls I'm saying.
December 8, 2013
I was gifted this book for an honest review...
First off I have never read a book that made me want to go back to college to study mythology more than this book did. This book captured and held my interest and excitement from the very first chapter. I believe I learned more about lycanthropy through this author's book than any other book or movie. Following Mackenzie Duncan from the first bite and watching her learn and become more powerful with every turn was so exciting and emotional all at the same time. I would definitely recommend all readers that love Werewolves to grab a copy of this book and dive in. This is definitely a want more series. Can't wait to see what happens next.
First off I have never read a book that made me want to go back to college to study mythology more than this book did. This book captured and held my interest and excitement from the very first chapter. I believe I learned more about lycanthropy through this author's book than any other book or movie. Following Mackenzie Duncan from the first bite and watching her learn and become more powerful with every turn was so exciting and emotional all at the same time. I would definitely recommend all readers that love Werewolves to grab a copy of this book and dive in. This is definitely a want more series. Can't wait to see what happens next.
December 15, 2013
To be honest, I feel a little lost in limbo on this one. I really wanted to love it book but I just couldn’t. I think a lot of it had to do with the writing and plot line. I know that a lot of readers who’ve read this will be like, “what’s wrong with her?!” and it is really more of a taste of preference of sorts. What I feel is simply, the plot, the story line, and the way that everything was crafted wasn’t my cup of tea. It was in no means bad but rather not something that held my attention the entire way.
I probably will read the sequel, The Enlightening, just for the heck of seeing what happens next but I don’t know… I’m completely on the fence on this one…
I probably will read the sequel, The Enlightening, just for the heck of seeing what happens next but I don’t know… I’m completely on the fence on this one…
January 22, 2014
**Honest review ARC copy**
I really liked this book. I have to say it's rare to find a book where the leading woman isn't whiny and broken. This definitely isn't that book, you get to see it within the first few pages.
There are definitely some twists that you didn't see coming towards the end, and a triangle that's for sure (I'm rooting for Liam). Turns out there is a little royal intrigue as well. I can't wait to see what happens in the series, especially with the way it ended.
I really liked this book. I have to say it's rare to find a book where the leading woman isn't whiny and broken. This definitely isn't that book, you get to see it within the first few pages.
There are definitely some twists that you didn't see coming towards the end, and a triangle that's for sure (I'm rooting for Liam). Turns out there is a little royal intrigue as well. I can't wait to see what happens in the series, especially with the way it ended.
January 23, 2014
WOW!!! could not put it down in the end... slow start in the beginning but quickly got to the really juicy bits in the middle and end, love Liam but you know the nice guy never never wins cant wait to read book 2... great start on this new werewolf series.
May 30, 2014
Harvard freshman gets turned into a werewolf on orders from the werewolf queen.
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January 26, 2014
Title: The Tempering - MacKenzie Duncan Series Book 1
Author: Adrianne James
Publisher: Star Bound Books
Published: 9-11-2013
ISBN: 9780615879741
E-Book ASIN: BooF52ZXUK
Pages: 322
Genre: Romance
Tags: Paranormal, Werewolves & Shifters
Overall Rating: 4.5 Great
All Mackenzie Duncan wanted was to leave her former life and family far behind. She managed to get a scholarship to Harvard and obtain a job at the local coffee shop. Deciding to do some kind of normal college activity she attends one of the football games, but is so bored she prepares to get away from the crowds and hole up in one of the darkened corners until the game is over and she can say she at least attended. Remembering her scarf she turns back to her seat to retrieve it and literally bumps into Todd Nealy, one of the perfect crowd. He comes from money and thinks all others are beneath him.
When he insults Mackenzie she turns the tables on him and humiliates him in front of his friends and other students. Todd grabs Mackenzie's arm in a bruising grip. After an exchange of threats from Todd and insults from Mackenzie, she leaves the game and heads home through the park. As she is walking in the dim light she hears something rustling along the tree line. Suddenly a large animal comes out of the woods and stalks toward Mackenzie. Terrified of what looks like a wolf with unusual yellow-green eyes she begins to walk backwards away from it when it quickly strikes her as she trips over a large rock. As her arm is being savaged Mackenzie grabs the rock and hits the wolf on the head. Then to chase it off the throws the rock and hits the dog hard on the snout.
After painfully making it to the walkway, Mackenzie freaks when the heat from the lacerations on her arm spreads and she sees her arm begin to heal. Talking herself into believing she has hallucinated everything she goes back to her apartment. She awakes the next morning extremely ill. She calls in sick to work and is told to show up or she is fired. She calls a friend to take notes and prepares to go to work. While she is washing off she becomes violently ill then passes out. A pounding on the door awakens her. She goes into the bathroom to wash her face and as she looks into the mirror and realizes it wasn't a dream or hallucination; because her eyes are no longer blue they are yellow-green, the same as the wolf that attacked her in the park. How can that be there are no wolves in the area, are there? What is going on? Then her friend Jordan tells her Mackenzie called on Friday to take notes and it is now Sunday. When she goes to the clinic to find out what is going on she finds she has grown two inches. Mackenzie goes on a search to find out what happened. What she finds scares her to her very soul. She fears the wolf targeted her and may come back to finish the job.
This novel grabs you from the very beginning. We have all known a bully somewhere in our lives and can identify with the scene at the game. How many times have we taken a familiar route home only to feel that we are being watched and hurried our steps? The lure of the paranormal has teased many, myself included. What would you do if you found out what you thought was just the fictional imagination of some author's mind or perhaps just plain myth was in fact true? Do werewolves walk among us? I started this book with a question as to whether it would appeal because it sounded so different from the other paranormal shifter books I had read. I am please to say that it was completely enjoyable. I loved Mackenzie Duncan even as she frightened me on where she might let herself go with her anger. I look forward now to seeing where Adrianne James will take Mackenzie and I on the next installment of this series. She has produced a character that you can watch develop and grow into herself and new abilities. You will root for her even as you hold your breath over her outbursts. Pick up a copy for yourself today.
Author: Adrianne James
Publisher: Star Bound Books
Published: 9-11-2013
ISBN: 9780615879741
E-Book ASIN: BooF52ZXUK
Pages: 322
Genre: Romance
Tags: Paranormal, Werewolves & Shifters
Overall Rating: 4.5 Great
All Mackenzie Duncan wanted was to leave her former life and family far behind. She managed to get a scholarship to Harvard and obtain a job at the local coffee shop. Deciding to do some kind of normal college activity she attends one of the football games, but is so bored she prepares to get away from the crowds and hole up in one of the darkened corners until the game is over and she can say she at least attended. Remembering her scarf she turns back to her seat to retrieve it and literally bumps into Todd Nealy, one of the perfect crowd. He comes from money and thinks all others are beneath him.
When he insults Mackenzie she turns the tables on him and humiliates him in front of his friends and other students. Todd grabs Mackenzie's arm in a bruising grip. After an exchange of threats from Todd and insults from Mackenzie, she leaves the game and heads home through the park. As she is walking in the dim light she hears something rustling along the tree line. Suddenly a large animal comes out of the woods and stalks toward Mackenzie. Terrified of what looks like a wolf with unusual yellow-green eyes she begins to walk backwards away from it when it quickly strikes her as she trips over a large rock. As her arm is being savaged Mackenzie grabs the rock and hits the wolf on the head. Then to chase it off the throws the rock and hits the dog hard on the snout.
After painfully making it to the walkway, Mackenzie freaks when the heat from the lacerations on her arm spreads and she sees her arm begin to heal. Talking herself into believing she has hallucinated everything she goes back to her apartment. She awakes the next morning extremely ill. She calls in sick to work and is told to show up or she is fired. She calls a friend to take notes and prepares to go to work. While she is washing off she becomes violently ill then passes out. A pounding on the door awakens her. She goes into the bathroom to wash her face and as she looks into the mirror and realizes it wasn't a dream or hallucination; because her eyes are no longer blue they are yellow-green, the same as the wolf that attacked her in the park. How can that be there are no wolves in the area, are there? What is going on? Then her friend Jordan tells her Mackenzie called on Friday to take notes and it is now Sunday. When she goes to the clinic to find out what is going on she finds she has grown two inches. Mackenzie goes on a search to find out what happened. What she finds scares her to her very soul. She fears the wolf targeted her and may come back to finish the job.
This novel grabs you from the very beginning. We have all known a bully somewhere in our lives and can identify with the scene at the game. How many times have we taken a familiar route home only to feel that we are being watched and hurried our steps? The lure of the paranormal has teased many, myself included. What would you do if you found out what you thought was just the fictional imagination of some author's mind or perhaps just plain myth was in fact true? Do werewolves walk among us? I started this book with a question as to whether it would appeal because it sounded so different from the other paranormal shifter books I had read. I am please to say that it was completely enjoyable. I loved Mackenzie Duncan even as she frightened me on where she might let herself go with her anger. I look forward now to seeing where Adrianne James will take Mackenzie and I on the next installment of this series. She has produced a character that you can watch develop and grow into herself and new abilities. You will root for her even as you hold your breath over her outbursts. Pick up a copy for yourself today.
February 16, 2015
This was a free book and was a good introduction to this author. I'm not too keen on the author's style of writing and I struggled somewhat until about half way through the book because I didn't know where the story was going to take us.
Mackenzie is a student at Harvard and when walking through the park alone one night, she is attacked by a lone wolf. She manages to survive the attack and make her way home where she is taken ill because of the werewolf virus and sleeps for 2 day through the transition. When she awakes and discovers her new strengths, she decides that she needs to leave college and to get as far away from humans as possible. Whilst fleeing she stops at a bed and breakfast where she meets Margret, Geoff and Analise. It turns out that the three of them are werewolves and Margret is a pack leader who invites Mackenzie to join her pack. Unlike many other werewolf stories, Margret's pack is split between three sites.... Montana, California and Alaska. Whilst living at the pack house in Montana, Mackenzie learns all about being a werewolf but it becomes clear from the start that despite being a 'bitten' wolf, Mackenzie has a speed that means she can easily outrun a 'born' wolf. She also manages to retain some of her human memories whilst in wolf form very early on and that makes her of particular interest to Margret. During her time with the pack, Mackenzie quickly forms an attachment to Geoff and he 'seems' to return the feelings but due to the hierarchy of pack laws, he is forbidden from beginning an intimate relationship with her.
During her 3rd cycle as a wolf, Mackenzie attacks a lone camper, Liam, but unlike her previous cycles, she doesn't kill him in the attack..... he does however turn instead. Mackenzie nurses him through his transition and when he regains consciousness, he flees the pack house believing them all to be insane. After his increased strength results in him accidentally hurting his younger brother, Liam returns to the pack house with his tail between his legs metaphorically speaking. He spends most of his time with Geoff learning about the way of the werewolf and although he befriends everyone in the pack house, he refuses point blank to acknowledge the existence of Mackenzie let alone speak to her. All that changes however after his first cycle and he learns that the human has no control over the wolf. From then on in, he and Mackenzie slowly get to know one another and as it's a romantic suspense story, they develop romantic feelings for one another leading to a love triangle.
As there's three books in the series, the romance can go either way especially a book one has concentrated on Mackenzie, Geoff and Liam coming together. The suspense stems from the discovery of who Margret really is and what her plans are not only for her pack but for all the werewolf packs. Despite the editing and proof reading issues, the story was enjoyable and it has piqued my interest enough for me to read book 2 to see where the story goes.
Mackenzie is a student at Harvard and when walking through the park alone one night, she is attacked by a lone wolf. She manages to survive the attack and make her way home where she is taken ill because of the werewolf virus and sleeps for 2 day through the transition. When she awakes and discovers her new strengths, she decides that she needs to leave college and to get as far away from humans as possible. Whilst fleeing she stops at a bed and breakfast where she meets Margret, Geoff and Analise. It turns out that the three of them are werewolves and Margret is a pack leader who invites Mackenzie to join her pack. Unlike many other werewolf stories, Margret's pack is split between three sites.... Montana, California and Alaska. Whilst living at the pack house in Montana, Mackenzie learns all about being a werewolf but it becomes clear from the start that despite being a 'bitten' wolf, Mackenzie has a speed that means she can easily outrun a 'born' wolf. She also manages to retain some of her human memories whilst in wolf form very early on and that makes her of particular interest to Margret. During her time with the pack, Mackenzie quickly forms an attachment to Geoff and he 'seems' to return the feelings but due to the hierarchy of pack laws, he is forbidden from beginning an intimate relationship with her.
During her 3rd cycle as a wolf, Mackenzie attacks a lone camper, Liam, but unlike her previous cycles, she doesn't kill him in the attack..... he does however turn instead. Mackenzie nurses him through his transition and when he regains consciousness, he flees the pack house believing them all to be insane. After his increased strength results in him accidentally hurting his younger brother, Liam returns to the pack house with his tail between his legs metaphorically speaking. He spends most of his time with Geoff learning about the way of the werewolf and although he befriends everyone in the pack house, he refuses point blank to acknowledge the existence of Mackenzie let alone speak to her. All that changes however after his first cycle and he learns that the human has no control over the wolf. From then on in, he and Mackenzie slowly get to know one another and as it's a romantic suspense story, they develop romantic feelings for one another leading to a love triangle.
As there's three books in the series, the romance can go either way especially a book one has concentrated on Mackenzie, Geoff and Liam coming together. The suspense stems from the discovery of who Margret really is and what her plans are not only for her pack but for all the werewolf packs. Despite the editing and proof reading issues, the story was enjoyable and it has piqued my interest enough for me to read book 2 to see where the story goes.
March 16, 2014
Mackenzie Duncan is a Harvard student majoring in paranormal mythology. No real relationship with her parents, father in prison and mother she's not on speaking terms with, she works hard to pay for school and tries her best to keep her grades up. Mackenzie is a little spitfire right from the beginning. She gets into a heated argument with one of the schools "final club" boys at the football game and leaves alone soon after. On her way back to her apartment she cuts through the wooded park in hopes to avoid the parting college students that are hanging out on the street. Her life is forever changed by that one choice, as she is attacked by a wolf. She gets away and is left bleeding and scared, only to watch in horror as her mangled arm knits itself back together. she finally reaches home and is instantly out. Sick and sore the next day, she calls into work and falls asleep on the bathroom floor, for two days. She is noticing changes in her body, healing after being cut, super strength, great hearing, crazy temper and she grew two inches and thinned up over night. The most noticeable change was her eye color, her eyes going from blue to yellowish-green. She sees a doctor and an eye doctor, trying to figure out what the hell is going on with her body, but they find nothing wrong with her. Finally something tells her to look at it a different way, so she looks into mythology. What she finds explains everything that is happening to her...she's a werewolf! She doesn't want to believe it, but she is scared to take the chance on being wrong and hurting someone. Before the full moon she goes deep into the woods, as not to hurt anyone if she was to change, and she does change. She doesn't remember anything after the change and wakes up naked, bloody and surrounded by destruction. She is so mortified by her actions, even though she had no control or memories of it, that she decides to drop out of school and leave town. Thankfully by the next cycle she meets up with a group that is not only like her, but can help her learn to deal. Can These people help her?
This is the first book in the Mackenzie Duncan series and I very much enjoyed Adrianne James' unique version of werewolves. Great characters, action, adventure and great beginnings of a crazy love triangle (oh yes!) Geoff and Liam. Geoff is a very powerful wolf who has helped Mackenzie through some of her hiccups as a new pup, and Liam... Well, we wont spoil it for you, you'll just have to read this amazing story to find out. Follow along as Mackenzie learns to deal with and control her new self. Its a bumpy ride for sure, but a great one in my opinion. I loved it and recommend it to anyone who loves a good paranormal book, suitable for young adults as well. I give The Tempering 5 stars
September 9, 2015
This was an OK start to what seems like it may become an interesting series. Unfortunately, being the first book, it had its rough moments.
Mackenzie Duncan is a student at Harvard who finds herself the victim of an unfortunate (and unheard of, to her) accident. She is attacked while walking home from a football game and the events that follow leave her in a state of both panic and shock. Turns out, she was attacked by a werewolf. Being a student of mythology, she knows all about lycanthropes. She also thought they were strictly fictional. Mackenzie now needs to change her current lifestyle to favor her newly formed wolf-side. Luckily, she finds a group of people perfectly suited to helping her make her way.
One of my main problems with this book was a good portion read like a lesson in werewolf mythology. Anyone who has read a good number of werewolf books gets the gist, as most books follow the same patterns - weres are either born or made/bitten. This book followed the same train of thought, and was rather repetitive in that aspect. I realize that this book is the precursor to ones that follow, being the series starter, but there was a decided lack of action and anything 'happening' because of the in-depth telling about werewolves.
Another kind of off-putting aspect was the fact that Mackenzie was 19. I don't read YA or NA, simply because there is a lack of connection between myself and a main character who is over a decade younger. Not the author's fault by any means, it's just a personal choice. It didn't impact the book in a negative manner, but I can't relate, and that always pulls me out of the story. I also didn't like the direction that the author chose to go with the relationship between Mack and Geoff as soon as Liam was introduced. It wasn't a smooth transition, it was a bumpy rejection that the author seemed to use in order to create the ever-present love triangle that runs rampant in this genre. I loathe love triangles and the subsequent "Team XXX, all the way!!!", that follows books with a love triangle.
All that aside, I found myself enjoying parts of the story despite the things I disliked about it. I liked Mackenzie for the most part, she adapted easily for being so young. I also liked her new 'family', especially Margret, and how supportive and strong they were. I can't say I'm interested enough to follow the series, but I will definitely keep it in mind if I ever run out of things to read.
**I received this eARC on behalf of the publisher/author via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion and review.
Mackenzie Duncan is a student at Harvard who finds herself the victim of an unfortunate (and unheard of, to her) accident. She is attacked while walking home from a football game and the events that follow leave her in a state of both panic and shock. Turns out, she was attacked by a werewolf. Being a student of mythology, she knows all about lycanthropes. She also thought they were strictly fictional. Mackenzie now needs to change her current lifestyle to favor her newly formed wolf-side. Luckily, she finds a group of people perfectly suited to helping her make her way.
One of my main problems with this book was a good portion read like a lesson in werewolf mythology. Anyone who has read a good number of werewolf books gets the gist, as most books follow the same patterns - weres are either born or made/bitten. This book followed the same train of thought, and was rather repetitive in that aspect. I realize that this book is the precursor to ones that follow, being the series starter, but there was a decided lack of action and anything 'happening' because of the in-depth telling about werewolves.
Another kind of off-putting aspect was the fact that Mackenzie was 19. I don't read YA or NA, simply because there is a lack of connection between myself and a main character who is over a decade younger. Not the author's fault by any means, it's just a personal choice. It didn't impact the book in a negative manner, but I can't relate, and that always pulls me out of the story. I also didn't like the direction that the author chose to go with the relationship between Mack and Geoff as soon as Liam was introduced. It wasn't a smooth transition, it was a bumpy rejection that the author seemed to use in order to create the ever-present love triangle that runs rampant in this genre. I loathe love triangles and the subsequent "Team XXX, all the way!!!", that follows books with a love triangle.
All that aside, I found myself enjoying parts of the story despite the things I disliked about it. I liked Mackenzie for the most part, she adapted easily for being so young. I also liked her new 'family', especially Margret, and how supportive and strong they were. I can't say I'm interested enough to follow the series, but I will definitely keep it in mind if I ever run out of things to read.
**I received this eARC on behalf of the publisher/author via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion and review.
September 14, 2013
*I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
The Tempering is a new adult paranormal romance that begins with an innocent walk home from a football game. I love the fact that the heroine is studying mythology at Harvard. That's what drew me to this book in the first place. How ironic to have to give up your dreams because the very things you were studying as mythology are actually real, and you are now one of them.
Mackenzie is a very strong female protagonist. She's had a difficult life growing up with an apathetic mother and criminal father. She has dreams for her future that include studying mythology, though fate decides she should live it instead. After Mackenzie is attacked and changed, she's left to fend for herself. Afraid she'll hurt someone on the night of the full moon, she hides out in the wilderness only to wake up with no memory of her time as a wolf. She goes on the run, where she meets Margret and is brought to live with a werewolf pack in Montana.
There are two romantic interests in this story. Geoff was born a werewolf and has complete control over his shifting. He admits that he wishes to get to know Mackenzie and perhaps pursue a lifelong relationship, but pack politics are always coming between them. Liam is accidentally turned by Mackenzie on her first full moon in Montana. Though Liam hates Mackenzie for turning him, that changes once he shifts the first time only to realize the lack of control he has in wolf form. Liam and Mackenzie have an undeniable attraction to each other, though Mackenzie still harbors feelings for Geoff even though a relationship would be difficult.
The plot is fast paced and a quick read. I enjoyed the story and the interactions between the characters. Other than Mackenzie, none of the characters are developed as much as I would've liked. Since this is a series, perhaps they'll get their turns in the next segment. The mystery surrounding Margret and her plans is intriguing. The ending is almost more of a beginning than an end. Some questions are answered, but that just creates more.
I recommend The Tempering to everyone ages 17+ that enjoys a fast paced paranormal romance with a strong female protagonist. It will be interesting to see where Adrianne James takes this intriguing story.
The Tempering is a new adult paranormal romance that begins with an innocent walk home from a football game. I love the fact that the heroine is studying mythology at Harvard. That's what drew me to this book in the first place. How ironic to have to give up your dreams because the very things you were studying as mythology are actually real, and you are now one of them.
Mackenzie is a very strong female protagonist. She's had a difficult life growing up with an apathetic mother and criminal father. She has dreams for her future that include studying mythology, though fate decides she should live it instead. After Mackenzie is attacked and changed, she's left to fend for herself. Afraid she'll hurt someone on the night of the full moon, she hides out in the wilderness only to wake up with no memory of her time as a wolf. She goes on the run, where she meets Margret and is brought to live with a werewolf pack in Montana.
There are two romantic interests in this story. Geoff was born a werewolf and has complete control over his shifting. He admits that he wishes to get to know Mackenzie and perhaps pursue a lifelong relationship, but pack politics are always coming between them. Liam is accidentally turned by Mackenzie on her first full moon in Montana. Though Liam hates Mackenzie for turning him, that changes once he shifts the first time only to realize the lack of control he has in wolf form. Liam and Mackenzie have an undeniable attraction to each other, though Mackenzie still harbors feelings for Geoff even though a relationship would be difficult.
The plot is fast paced and a quick read. I enjoyed the story and the interactions between the characters. Other than Mackenzie, none of the characters are developed as much as I would've liked. Since this is a series, perhaps they'll get their turns in the next segment. The mystery surrounding Margret and her plans is intriguing. The ending is almost more of a beginning than an end. Some questions are answered, but that just creates more.
I recommend The Tempering to everyone ages 17+ that enjoys a fast paced paranormal romance with a strong female protagonist. It will be interesting to see where Adrianne James takes this intriguing story.
March 27, 2014
Mackenzie Duncan landed the opportunity of a lifetime when she was selected to become a part of Harvard University's Mythology department. In her mind, she can now follow her passion, and delve into lore's of old. She's been fascinated by myths and legends from an early age, always wondering if there is truth behind the tales she's heard. To be able to debunk such mysteries is mind-boggling. So much so, that's she willing to do everything necessary to see how far her new path in life takes her.
An unexpected attack one night soon throws her carefully constructed life into an uproar. The wolf bite she suffered has changed her entire being in more ways than one. She's stronger, more agile, her body heals faster than normal, and her temperament has changed completely. Though she's not sure as to what's happening to her, Mackenzie is determined in finding answers to the questions roiling through her mind. Someone must know what's going on. She just has to find the right person to pose her questions to.
As her life continues to spiral toward the unexpected, Mackenzie soon fears for those around her. She's afraid of hurting someone, something she refuses to do at all cost. When she comes across the gorgeous Geoff, she soon realizes that she's not the only one going through such a crazy ordeal. There are others like her living out there, and she's hell-bent on making sense of what she's going through.
With Geoff's help, she's able to control who and what she's become. Though she's not exactly accepted into the new community, Mackenzie refuses to bend to someone else's will. She has a mind and heart of her own, and she'll do everything possible to co-exist with those she comes across. Will she be able to return to the life she knew once everything is said and done? Or will she remain with the new family she's come to know is so short a time?
An intriguing start to the Mackenzie Duncan series, I was absolutely hooked from the very beginning. I honestly enjoy all things supernatural, and I think Adrianne did a wonderful job in creating this wonderful world. The werewolves are a breed of their own, and stand up for their beliefs. It's shown clearly in the moments when they test Mackenzie's mettle. A bittersweet story, I'm definitely looking forward to what's to come.
An unexpected attack one night soon throws her carefully constructed life into an uproar. The wolf bite she suffered has changed her entire being in more ways than one. She's stronger, more agile, her body heals faster than normal, and her temperament has changed completely. Though she's not sure as to what's happening to her, Mackenzie is determined in finding answers to the questions roiling through her mind. Someone must know what's going on. She just has to find the right person to pose her questions to.
As her life continues to spiral toward the unexpected, Mackenzie soon fears for those around her. She's afraid of hurting someone, something she refuses to do at all cost. When she comes across the gorgeous Geoff, she soon realizes that she's not the only one going through such a crazy ordeal. There are others like her living out there, and she's hell-bent on making sense of what she's going through.
With Geoff's help, she's able to control who and what she's become. Though she's not exactly accepted into the new community, Mackenzie refuses to bend to someone else's will. She has a mind and heart of her own, and she'll do everything possible to co-exist with those she comes across. Will she be able to return to the life she knew once everything is said and done? Or will she remain with the new family she's come to know is so short a time?
An intriguing start to the Mackenzie Duncan series, I was absolutely hooked from the very beginning. I honestly enjoy all things supernatural, and I think Adrianne did a wonderful job in creating this wonderful world. The werewolves are a breed of their own, and stand up for their beliefs. It's shown clearly in the moments when they test Mackenzie's mettle. A bittersweet story, I'm definitely looking forward to what's to come.
February 18, 2014
The Tempering by Adrienne James
The Tempering is about a young woman, Mackenzie Duncan, who managed to rise above her poor upbringing and leave her nay-saying mother and inmate father behind to attend Harvard. She majored in Mythology and Folklore and had great dreams for what she planned to do with her degree. Then, she decided to walk through the park on her way home from a football game that she wasn’t even enjoying and didn’t want to go to in the first place. A wolf attacked her and her life changed forever. She discovered that her college major wasn’t quite as fictional as she had always believed.
Mackenzie was not, to me, a likable character. She was whiny, bitchy, and never seemed satisfied with anything. She also wasn’t very well developed. Time passed so quickly in the book without anything being acknowledged that there was really no way to get to know her very well.
The two potential heroes in the story, Geoff and Liam, were completely different in nature, or seemed to be. Again, the characters weren’t built up enough to actually develop much of an opinion about either, except that Geoff was a selfish jerk. Liam seemed to be a nice guy, but he wasn’t featured enough to fully decide.
Nothing of real interest actually happened in this novel. Mackenzie and Liam were just figuring things out. I was rather disappointed to have read an entire novel, only to have it end abruptly, going nowhere.
The Tempering has an interesting story line, with an idea I’ve not read before. With substantial work and more time spent on plot, character development, and sentence structure, this could be a really great novel. There is to be a sequel, it seems, and if James does a better job of writing about what’s happening rather than skipping over details, and if the characters are well developed, this will be an interesting series.
I rate this novel two stars, with the potential for more…
An ARC was provided by the author for an honest review.
The Tempering is about a young woman, Mackenzie Duncan, who managed to rise above her poor upbringing and leave her nay-saying mother and inmate father behind to attend Harvard. She majored in Mythology and Folklore and had great dreams for what she planned to do with her degree. Then, she decided to walk through the park on her way home from a football game that she wasn’t even enjoying and didn’t want to go to in the first place. A wolf attacked her and her life changed forever. She discovered that her college major wasn’t quite as fictional as she had always believed.
Mackenzie was not, to me, a likable character. She was whiny, bitchy, and never seemed satisfied with anything. She also wasn’t very well developed. Time passed so quickly in the book without anything being acknowledged that there was really no way to get to know her very well.
The two potential heroes in the story, Geoff and Liam, were completely different in nature, or seemed to be. Again, the characters weren’t built up enough to actually develop much of an opinion about either, except that Geoff was a selfish jerk. Liam seemed to be a nice guy, but he wasn’t featured enough to fully decide.
Nothing of real interest actually happened in this novel. Mackenzie and Liam were just figuring things out. I was rather disappointed to have read an entire novel, only to have it end abruptly, going nowhere.
The Tempering has an interesting story line, with an idea I’ve not read before. With substantial work and more time spent on plot, character development, and sentence structure, this could be a really great novel. There is to be a sequel, it seems, and if James does a better job of writing about what’s happening rather than skipping over details, and if the characters are well developed, this will be an interesting series.
I rate this novel two stars, with the potential for more…
An ARC was provided by the author for an honest review.
October 24, 2014
This review and others can be found on http://www.bookishtreasures.blogspot.com
I thought this was a fantastic NA paranormal romance novel. Adrianne James has managed to take a somewhat over used paranormal creature – werewolves – and create something that is wonderfully unique.
I really enjoyed the portrayal of werewolves in this book, it seemed really believable and allowed me to get sucked into the story. I was expecting this book to have more of a college setting and be about someone juggling college whilst becoming a werewolf. I actually loved more that it was about a girl running away from college as she can’t control her wolf side and attempting to fit in with a pack.
Mackenzie is such a fantastic character, a bit of a nerd but not at all shy and with a temper that is only made worse by the wolf inside of her and the injustice of having her future ripped away by one bite from a werewolf. I really enjoyed watching Mackenzie deal with becoming an angry, ferocious werewolf and her determination to be the best person, make that werewolf, that she can be.
This, the first book in the trilogy, introduced two great male characters. Geoff, a powerful wolf who helped Mackenzie in her time of need (fledgling werewolf-hood) but who is unfortunately forbidden due to his position in the pack and Liam, who Mackenzie has a bond with despite their somewhat rocky start. At the moment I am rooting for Geoff but I really love both of these boys.
The ending to this book was fantastic and left me wanting more. I can’t wait to see how the revelations will effect Mackenzie and what will happen to her Geoff and Liam. I am really looking forwards to reading more of this authors books in the future.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, this has not affected my opinions or rating in any way.*
I thought this was a fantastic NA paranormal romance novel. Adrianne James has managed to take a somewhat over used paranormal creature – werewolves – and create something that is wonderfully unique.
I really enjoyed the portrayal of werewolves in this book, it seemed really believable and allowed me to get sucked into the story. I was expecting this book to have more of a college setting and be about someone juggling college whilst becoming a werewolf. I actually loved more that it was about a girl running away from college as she can’t control her wolf side and attempting to fit in with a pack.
Mackenzie is such a fantastic character, a bit of a nerd but not at all shy and with a temper that is only made worse by the wolf inside of her and the injustice of having her future ripped away by one bite from a werewolf. I really enjoyed watching Mackenzie deal with becoming an angry, ferocious werewolf and her determination to be the best person, make that werewolf, that she can be.
This, the first book in the trilogy, introduced two great male characters. Geoff, a powerful wolf who helped Mackenzie in her time of need (fledgling werewolf-hood) but who is unfortunately forbidden due to his position in the pack and Liam, who Mackenzie has a bond with despite their somewhat rocky start. At the moment I am rooting for Geoff but I really love both of these boys.
The ending to this book was fantastic and left me wanting more. I can’t wait to see how the revelations will effect Mackenzie and what will happen to her Geoff and Liam. I am really looking forwards to reading more of this authors books in the future.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, this has not affected my opinions or rating in any way.*
April 23, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Wow! I loved this book. A definite MUST have! I can't wait to read the next one!
Mackenzie Duncan walks away from a confrontation, she knows it's irresponsible to wander around, at night, by herself. What she doesn't expect though, is being viciously attacked by a wolf and left to endure the consequences alone.
As days pass, she realizes that something is significantly wrong with her. A doctors consultation leaves her none the wiser, and she takes matters into her own hands. Through a thorough Google search she finds a list of similar symptoms which, added to her knowledge of mythology, leads her to believe that she might actually have been bitten by a werewolf.
The Tempering, doesn't turn out to be just another werewolf book. It is well written, easy to read, and has a fun and curious plot. Each page is filled with interesting happenings, surprising twists and turns, and unexpected and even embarrassing moments. I couldn't put it down until I finished the last page and then kept going throughout the sneak peak of The Enlightening (book two in the Mackenzie Duncan series), just to have a couple of more minutes with these characters. :(
A life quote that I will take from this book: "Appearance is everything. If you allow yourself to look weak, you will be weak. She would no longer be weak, no matter how long it took for her insides to catch up with her exterior."
As a final thought I will add that The Tempering doesn't have one hot guy, but in fact two! Who to choose though? I am rooting for Geoff! The off limits, two hundred and forty year old, third in command, desirable werewolf, as opposed to Liam, the sire-bonded-to-her (...I quite like that thought...mmmm....) newly bitten, sweet and sexy werewolf...
Read and Enjoy!
4.5 Bombs
Reviewed by Soreta
Wow! I loved this book. A definite MUST have! I can't wait to read the next one!
Mackenzie Duncan walks away from a confrontation, she knows it's irresponsible to wander around, at night, by herself. What she doesn't expect though, is being viciously attacked by a wolf and left to endure the consequences alone.
As days pass, she realizes that something is significantly wrong with her. A doctors consultation leaves her none the wiser, and she takes matters into her own hands. Through a thorough Google search she finds a list of similar symptoms which, added to her knowledge of mythology, leads her to believe that she might actually have been bitten by a werewolf.
The Tempering, doesn't turn out to be just another werewolf book. It is well written, easy to read, and has a fun and curious plot. Each page is filled with interesting happenings, surprising twists and turns, and unexpected and even embarrassing moments. I couldn't put it down until I finished the last page and then kept going throughout the sneak peak of The Enlightening (book two in the Mackenzie Duncan series), just to have a couple of more minutes with these characters. :(
A life quote that I will take from this book: "Appearance is everything. If you allow yourself to look weak, you will be weak. She would no longer be weak, no matter how long it took for her insides to catch up with her exterior."
As a final thought I will add that The Tempering doesn't have one hot guy, but in fact two! Who to choose though? I am rooting for Geoff! The off limits, two hundred and forty year old, third in command, desirable werewolf, as opposed to Liam, the sire-bonded-to-her (...I quite like that thought...mmmm....) newly bitten, sweet and sexy werewolf...
Read and Enjoy!
4.5 Bombs
Reviewed by Soreta
November 18, 2013
Mackenzie may know a lot about the mythology of werewolves, but she has no clue they actaully exist until she gets bitten and goes through the change herself. Terrified of what she may do when she turns on the full moon, she runs. When the female alpha of a very large pack finds her and invites her to stay with them so they can guide her through the transition, she jumps at the chance. It doesn't hurt that the very cute and charming Geoff will be with her every step of the way either. But something doesn't feel right, and when Mackenzie starts to figure a few things out, she realizes that things may be even worse than she first thought they were.
The Tempering got off the a bit of a slow start for me with Mackenzie really sinking into a moping phase. I don't blame her for the emotion, it would suck to get changed the way she was, but it did seem to get a little repetitive. Once she meets the other wolves, things change quickly and the story takes off running. This was a big turning point in the momentum of the storyline and it was just far more interesting that the very beginning.
I really loved Mackenzie's character. She's not ashamed of the fact that she isn't the perfect woman, and she doesn't let anyone talk down to her. Her attitude was fantastic and once she got used to her new life, we see it come back with a little werewolf confidence to back it all up. I wasn't a big fan of Geoff until near the end and I'm still reserving judgement until I see what they are up to in book two. A pretty good start to a series, I'm not sure when book two will be out, but I'm going to keep an eye out for it.
- See more at: http://hotofftheshelves.blogspot.com/...
The Tempering got off the a bit of a slow start for me with Mackenzie really sinking into a moping phase. I don't blame her for the emotion, it would suck to get changed the way she was, but it did seem to get a little repetitive. Once she meets the other wolves, things change quickly and the story takes off running. This was a big turning point in the momentum of the storyline and it was just far more interesting that the very beginning.
I really loved Mackenzie's character. She's not ashamed of the fact that she isn't the perfect woman, and she doesn't let anyone talk down to her. Her attitude was fantastic and once she got used to her new life, we see it come back with a little werewolf confidence to back it all up. I wasn't a big fan of Geoff until near the end and I'm still reserving judgement until I see what they are up to in book two. A pretty good start to a series, I'm not sure when book two will be out, but I'm going to keep an eye out for it.
- See more at: http://hotofftheshelves.blogspot.com/...
April 16, 2014
5 stars
So I take a break from my romance novels and jump into this werewolf book. OMG, what a welcome surprise. I thought it was going to be a book that I would read and well forget. I was totally thrown. The characters, absolutely great. Even though I would think Mackenzie is the main character, everyone has a role to play in this book. There is power, love, and suspense in the book that makes it that good. I like how it is not one of those frilly books and that you can actually get into it and want to read it. The scenes are really good, I could imagine everything the way it was and that always makes a big difference. Her writing is incredible. YOu can tell she took a lot of time and thought about it. I don't like that I need to wait for the next book, but that is my fault because I truly loved this story. Lets not forget in all supernatural books we must have a love triangle aslo...lol
Mackenzie is a normal student, going to school at Harvard. All of that changes after a dark walk in a park, when a wolf bites her. After not know what to do, she drops out of school and makes her way to a bed and breakfast. She meets Geoff, Margaret,and Anilise. After she turns they realize that she is a werewolf and brings her back to her pack. This is where it all picks up, I'm not one for spoilers so let me tell you the drama is there. There is so much backstabbing, love twists, and secrets that you have to read the book and find out what happens, because the next book is going to be epic.
First time reading this author and I love her. I will continue to read her books and cant wait for the next one to come out.
So I take a break from my romance novels and jump into this werewolf book. OMG, what a welcome surprise. I thought it was going to be a book that I would read and well forget. I was totally thrown. The characters, absolutely great. Even though I would think Mackenzie is the main character, everyone has a role to play in this book. There is power, love, and suspense in the book that makes it that good. I like how it is not one of those frilly books and that you can actually get into it and want to read it. The scenes are really good, I could imagine everything the way it was and that always makes a big difference. Her writing is incredible. YOu can tell she took a lot of time and thought about it. I don't like that I need to wait for the next book, but that is my fault because I truly loved this story. Lets not forget in all supernatural books we must have a love triangle aslo...lol
Mackenzie is a normal student, going to school at Harvard. All of that changes after a dark walk in a park, when a wolf bites her. After not know what to do, she drops out of school and makes her way to a bed and breakfast. She meets Geoff, Margaret,and Anilise. After she turns they realize that she is a werewolf and brings her back to her pack. This is where it all picks up, I'm not one for spoilers so let me tell you the drama is there. There is so much backstabbing, love twists, and secrets that you have to read the book and find out what happens, because the next book is going to be epic.
First time reading this author and I love her. I will continue to read her books and cant wait for the next one to come out.
November 7, 2013
I received a copy from the author free of charge in exchange for an honest review.
Originally posted on Extaordinaryreads.com
I've read a lot of paranormal fiction. This read, however, puts a spin on the werewolf fable that makes it resonate with a sense of reality often absent in similar books. I did not like Mackenzie to begin with, but as the story grew and the character gained depth, I found myself warming to her. Indeed, I began to worry for her and hope for some equatable solution to her horrifying fate. You see, Mackenzie, turns from somewhat badass, but otherwise normal Harvard wannabe into a raving, ravenous beast of the full moon. Her confusion is both confounded and allayed when she meets others of her kind--allayed in that she discovers secrets that assist her understanding. Confounded, in her desperate and uncontrollable attraction to the alpha-male were, Geoff.--Her self-loathing filled personal journey into the heart of the wolf, is both dreadful and vicious, but it is also emotive... we want Mackenzie to win, and that turns this book into something far more than an average page turning thriller. This is a wicked, stealthily hunt of denial--A view of an existence best imagined in a well lit room, an existence to be feared.
Originally posted on Extaordinaryreads.com
I've read a lot of paranormal fiction. This read, however, puts a spin on the werewolf fable that makes it resonate with a sense of reality often absent in similar books. I did not like Mackenzie to begin with, but as the story grew and the character gained depth, I found myself warming to her. Indeed, I began to worry for her and hope for some equatable solution to her horrifying fate. You see, Mackenzie, turns from somewhat badass, but otherwise normal Harvard wannabe into a raving, ravenous beast of the full moon. Her confusion is both confounded and allayed when she meets others of her kind--allayed in that she discovers secrets that assist her understanding. Confounded, in her desperate and uncontrollable attraction to the alpha-male were, Geoff.--Her self-loathing filled personal journey into the heart of the wolf, is both dreadful and vicious, but it is also emotive... we want Mackenzie to win, and that turns this book into something far more than an average page turning thriller. This is a wicked, stealthily hunt of denial--A view of an existence best imagined in a well lit room, an existence to be feared.
December 10, 2013
This is not your typical boy bites girl werewolf story :) Mackenzie is also not your typical girl. Her father is a convict and her mother pushes her to be an underachiever but she will have none of that. Mack is a mythology major at Harvard and she works really hard to keep up her grades and pay for school. She will be an ivy league success no matter what anyone thinks! Little does she expect her whole life to be turned upside down by standing up to some rich bullies at a football game.... Next thing she knows she is attacke by a wolf and her safe happy world is gone forever.
This story is humerous and full of action. Not knowing what is going on lends mystery and suspense. The adventure comes in as Mackenzie tries to deal with her ever evolving perception of what is happening to her. It is a mystery she is determined to solve no matter the consequences. Romance enters the picture in a big way when she is at her lowest point dreading the horror of the night to come.
All in all this is a very promising beginning to what looks to be an awesome series. I would recommend this book to paranormal enthusiaists and werewolf lovers everywhere! I really enjoyed this book and cannot wait to read the next one :)
**this book is suitable for young adult through adult readers
This story is humerous and full of action. Not knowing what is going on lends mystery and suspense. The adventure comes in as Mackenzie tries to deal with her ever evolving perception of what is happening to her. It is a mystery she is determined to solve no matter the consequences. Romance enters the picture in a big way when she is at her lowest point dreading the horror of the night to come.
All in all this is a very promising beginning to what looks to be an awesome series. I would recommend this book to paranormal enthusiaists and werewolf lovers everywhere! I really enjoyed this book and cannot wait to read the next one :)
**this book is suitable for young adult through adult readers
March 27, 2014
I received this book from the author for my honest review
We all read books about werewolves and how they stick the the same old myths about them but not this book. I think that's why I actually like this book and I don't like reading werewolves because they basically the same someone gets bite n blah blah but this one goes into detail and the main character Mackenzie you could say is the perfect person to get bitten. Why do you ask because she is a freshman in college and is actually studying mythology & folklore which is kinda awesome. After a football game she is attached by a "big dog" and after that moment everything changes but doesn't it always? After this point I start to feel sorry for Mackenzie because she drops out of college,looses her job basically saves her old life behind and tries to figure out what's going on with herself because she is healing quickly, and getting stronger. You have the same story plot about a love triangle between Mackenzie, Liam and Geoff you never know who you hope wins because they all sound yummy. The only problem I had with the book was that there were some grammar issues which should've been caught by proof reading and the editor. I would recommend this book to friends and family.
We all read books about werewolves and how they stick the the same old myths about them but not this book. I think that's why I actually like this book and I don't like reading werewolves because they basically the same someone gets bite n blah blah but this one goes into detail and the main character Mackenzie you could say is the perfect person to get bitten. Why do you ask because she is a freshman in college and is actually studying mythology & folklore which is kinda awesome. After a football game she is attached by a "big dog" and after that moment everything changes but doesn't it always? After this point I start to feel sorry for Mackenzie because she drops out of college,looses her job basically saves her old life behind and tries to figure out what's going on with herself because she is healing quickly, and getting stronger. You have the same story plot about a love triangle between Mackenzie, Liam and Geoff you never know who you hope wins because they all sound yummy. The only problem I had with the book was that there were some grammar issues which should've been caught by proof reading and the editor. I would recommend this book to friends and family.
May 16, 2014
4.5 stars.
I haven't read a true werewolf book in a while, and my how I missed them. The Tempering was just what I was in the mood for. A feisty, tough protagonist. Turned against her will. And of course, the steamy, hot guys. Mackenzie's had a rough life and has made the most of it on her own, which makes her a little jaded. And while she was sassy and maybe a little hotheaded, I enjoyed her character. I felt like her emotions were real - I mean who wouldn't be upset over what they can't control? Geoff is an interesting one and I'm really curious to find out more about him and his past. I can't tell how I feel about him yet though, and for that, I give kudos to Adrianne. Keep me guessing - I love it! And with the twists thrown in there at the end...I had to immediately (like 5 seconds later) start reading book two.
The Good: Very enjoyable characters with unique personalities and a storyline that kept me wanting to read more (like until the kindle smashed me in the nose because I was so tired!)
The Issue: I think I would have liked to see more with Mackenzie and Liam and the time they spent together getting to know each other.
In Summary: A must read for fans of werewolves and paranormal stories!
I haven't read a true werewolf book in a while, and my how I missed them. The Tempering was just what I was in the mood for. A feisty, tough protagonist. Turned against her will. And of course, the steamy, hot guys. Mackenzie's had a rough life and has made the most of it on her own, which makes her a little jaded. And while she was sassy and maybe a little hotheaded, I enjoyed her character. I felt like her emotions were real - I mean who wouldn't be upset over what they can't control? Geoff is an interesting one and I'm really curious to find out more about him and his past. I can't tell how I feel about him yet though, and for that, I give kudos to Adrianne. Keep me guessing - I love it! And with the twists thrown in there at the end...I had to immediately (like 5 seconds later) start reading book two.
The Good: Very enjoyable characters with unique personalities and a storyline that kept me wanting to read more (like until the kindle smashed me in the nose because I was so tired!)
The Issue: I think I would have liked to see more with Mackenzie and Liam and the time they spent together getting to know each other.
In Summary: A must read for fans of werewolves and paranormal stories!
January 23, 2014
This was a pleasant surprise! There are a lot of werewolf books floating around right now but this one took an interesting approach and I rather enjoyed it. We are introduced to Mackenzie who is a freshman at Harvard when she is bit by a werewolf and left to pick up the pieces alone. We watch Mackenzie struggle with the truth and then stumble upon Margret, Geoff and Analise who are part of a pack led by Margret. Geoff and Mackenzie have an instant attraction and we get to watch that bloom...well kind of. Then Liam enters, I won't spoil how but he also has a connection with Mackenzie. I am not a fan of love triangles so I hope this one gets settled in the next book. We learn that not everything is the way it seems and Mackenzie and her lover boys hit the road...end book 1. I am so glad that Book 2 is already out so I can go one click it and find out what happens next.
*Arc courtesy of Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for a honest review*
*Arc courtesy of Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for a honest review*
February 7, 2014
**I received this book free for a review**
I would like to start by stating that paranormal romance is my favorite genre of books to read. I love getting wrapped up in a good horror/romance book. Even though I do have a passion for the paranormal world; this book did not do it for me. The book is narrated, which I absolutely HATE. I don’t understand why the author felt the need to narrate the book; Mackenzie remained the main character and I couldn’t connect with her feeling throughout this werewolf experience. I was hoping that would have been my only issue with the book, however I did not enjoy the storyline either. The story started out very fast paced and was a little all over the place. Things went from chaos to chaos and midway through the book, it went to flat out boring!!!
I would like to start by stating that paranormal romance is my favorite genre of books to read. I love getting wrapped up in a good horror/romance book. Even though I do have a passion for the paranormal world; this book did not do it for me. The book is narrated, which I absolutely HATE. I don’t understand why the author felt the need to narrate the book; Mackenzie remained the main character and I couldn’t connect with her feeling throughout this werewolf experience. I was hoping that would have been my only issue with the book, however I did not enjoy the storyline either. The story started out very fast paced and was a little all over the place. Things went from chaos to chaos and midway through the book, it went to flat out boring!!!
January 27, 2014
For the first 25% of this book, I found that it didn't really capture my attention very well, I'm not quite sure why as the storyline is quite different from other werewolf stories and all the more interesting for it, I just couldn't really get in to it. But when I hit about quarter way through, I found myself more engrossed in the story and actually by halfway through I was tearing through the pages.
This is not your average shifter story, where it romanticizes werewolves and the way the characters change forms, this is more gritty, darker. The werewolves in this story are beasts without control and the changing of forms is a horrendously painful experience. I found a refreshing change from what seems to be the norm with shifter stories, and more believable, as far as the genre allows.
This is not your average shifter story, where it romanticizes werewolves and the way the characters change forms, this is more gritty, darker. The werewolves in this story are beasts without control and the changing of forms is a horrendously painful experience. I found a refreshing change from what seems to be the norm with shifter stories, and more believable, as far as the genre allows.
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