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Apex: Moonbound #4
To Trust a Wolf
When April McVie escapes from the rogue wolf pack that held her against her will, she knows they won’t give up until they track her down. Humans can’t protect her, but maybe other wolves can. She flees to Harmony Ridge, Tennessee, the rumored home of a wolf pack she has never met, and begs sanctuary from their alpha. Maybe every wolf is as violent as those she escaped. She’s staking her life on the hope these wolves will be different.
Malachi Fuller is one of the most powerful alphas on earth. When he hears April’s story, he grants her immediate sanctuary, aware he’s about to have a fight on his hands. Fighting for, protecting, and leading his pack—these things have long been part of his nature. But the joy that floods his wolf heart at the recognition of April as his mate—this is new and unsettling. Surely claiming her will split his focus and compromise his responsibility to his pack.
Becoming the alpha’s houseguest should be a terrifying prospect, but when Malachi suggests this as the best way to protect her, April surprises herself by agreeing. As she makes friends among his pack and observes the leadership of a good alpha, she begins to believe some wolves are trustworthy after all. Meanwhile Malachi finds himself trusting his mate with the secrets of his heart. But with the rogue wolves still hunting, Malachi and April’s fragile relationship will soon be put to the test.
Malachi Fuller is one of the most powerful alphas on earth. When he hears April’s story, he grants her immediate sanctuary, aware he’s about to have a fight on his hands. Fighting for, protecting, and leading his pack—these things have long been part of his nature. But the joy that floods his wolf heart at the recognition of April as his mate—this is new and unsettling. Surely claiming her will split his focus and compromise his responsibility to his pack.
Becoming the alpha’s houseguest should be a terrifying prospect, but when Malachi suggests this as the best way to protect her, April surprises herself by agreeing. As she makes friends among his pack and observes the leadership of a good alpha, she begins to believe some wolves are trustworthy after all. Meanwhile Malachi finds himself trusting his mate with the secrets of his heart. But with the rogue wolves still hunting, Malachi and April’s fragile relationship will soon be put to the test.
319 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 5, 2023
About the author
Charlotte Vane
11 books39 followersCharlotte Vane writes the sort of romance she wants to read. Her Apex series features a closed bedroom door, found family, wolves, and vampires. She lives in the South and daily savors the weather (yes, even the humidity). She enjoys time in nature, acoustic music, and most desserts.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
September 20, 2023
The alpha story!
I have been waiting for Malachi's story since I read book 1! And it didn't disappoint. I loved the delve into his character, into the wolf worldbuilding, into his dynamic with his mate. A beautiful story that yet yet again brought me to tears.
I'm so excited about Rhett's story too, now.
I have been waiting for Malachi's story since I read book 1! And it didn't disappoint. I loved the delve into his character, into the wolf worldbuilding, into his dynamic with his mate. A beautiful story that yet yet again brought me to tears.
I'm so excited about Rhett's story too, now.
September 8, 2023
I read this book in a single day! Each book in this series just gets better and better!
This one features Malachi, the alpha of the Harmony Ridge pack. I loved getting his story and finally learning his backstory. He's such a compelling character! I loved how protective he is without crossing into the icky, controlling and possessiveness that is often a trope of werewolf stories. A distinction that was especially needed for this story since our leading lady April has had a run-in with an abusive, controlling alpha. Her healing journey, and Malachi's, was so sweet. This author manages to tackle deep and darker themes while also writing a very light and almost cozy read.
Trigger warnings: April was both sexually and physically assaulted before the start of the book. The book is clear on what happened but does not give details nor is the assault described on the page.
This one features Malachi, the alpha of the Harmony Ridge pack. I loved getting his story and finally learning his backstory. He's such a compelling character! I loved how protective he is without crossing into the icky, controlling and possessiveness that is often a trope of werewolf stories. A distinction that was especially needed for this story since our leading lady April has had a run-in with an abusive, controlling alpha. Her healing journey, and Malachi's, was so sweet. This author manages to tackle deep and darker themes while also writing a very light and almost cozy read.
Trigger warnings: April was both sexually and physically assaulted before the start of the book. The book is clear on what happened but does not give details nor is the assault described on the page.
September 7, 2023
This book gave me serotonin and adrenaline overflow.
Charlotte Vane totally blew me away! I mean, it was like a rollercoaster ride of emotions. When Mal got shot, I legitimately felt my heart shatter. I was so heartbroken. When April claimed him as her mate - total boss move. She's like the perfect Alpha's mate, no doubt, especially the part where April led the pack to support Mal and give him the strength he was losing. I was straight-up bawling my eyes out. It was so damn powerful. And let's not even get started on the whole peace-with-his-wolf thing. *chefskiss* Seriously, that scene was everything!
And when Mal called April his beloved?! Forget other endearments! It's like a warm, fuzzy blanket for the soul.
But it wasn't all heavy stuff. The little moments of sunshine in between were pure gold, like when the cat chose Malachi. That was just too cute! And when the pack found out it was his cat? Trevor's reaction was priceless. And that tiny furball hissing at the wolves? Hilarious! And Gigi bug? She's like the little spark of charm in the pack. Those comfort loan gifts for Malpha? Adorable doesn't even cut it.
Ember's wisdom to April? Spot on; they were like a guiding light. These characters are rock solid, no doubt about it.
Listen, I love alien and monster romance where smut is the plot. So this Apex series is my cleanest and closed-door romance I have read. I'm lowkey obsessed not only with Mal and April's story, but also with what Charlotte definitely delivered. Crafting such strong world-building and characters without relying on steamy scenes? Mad skills, I tell you. This is my kind of perfect.
And don't even get me started on Rhett. Who is this guy?
Charlotte Vane totally blew me away! I mean, it was like a rollercoaster ride of emotions. When Mal got shot, I legitimately felt my heart shatter. I was so heartbroken. When April claimed him as her mate - total boss move. She's like the perfect Alpha's mate, no doubt, especially the part where April led the pack to support Mal and give him the strength he was losing. I was straight-up bawling my eyes out. It was so damn powerful. And let's not even get started on the whole peace-with-his-wolf thing. *chefskiss* Seriously, that scene was everything!
And when Mal called April his beloved?! Forget other endearments! It's like a warm, fuzzy blanket for the soul.
But it wasn't all heavy stuff. The little moments of sunshine in between were pure gold, like when the cat chose Malachi. That was just too cute! And when the pack found out it was his cat? Trevor's reaction was priceless. And that tiny furball hissing at the wolves? Hilarious! And Gigi bug? She's like the little spark of charm in the pack. Those comfort loan gifts for Malpha? Adorable doesn't even cut it.
Ember's wisdom to April? Spot on; they were like a guiding light. These characters are rock solid, no doubt about it.
Listen, I love alien and monster romance where smut is the plot. So this Apex series is my cleanest and closed-door romance I have read. I'm lowkey obsessed not only with Mal and April's story, but also with what Charlotte definitely delivered. Crafting such strong world-building and characters without relying on steamy scenes? Mad skills, I tell you. This is my kind of perfect.
And don't even get me started on Rhett. Who is this guy?
November 3, 2023
This was so perfect for my mood and reading preferences this week. I absolutely loved it and I'd had some reservations just because of how Malachi's character had been set up in the previous books, but I loved how the relationship between him and April happened and was developed and what their interactions looked like from the very beginning straight on through. I felt like April and Malachi were a good, strong match and were well balanced. I loved what April brought to the pack. This was a solid 5 star review for me all the way through until the end happened without really resolving the primary non-relationship plot issue. And I figure it will carry over into the next book, and I can even see how that might be good/better or best in a way. But it feels unresolved in this book. Far enough out from the end that I hadn't realized it was going to remain unresolved in this book, I had the thought that it is sort of lucky for the pack to know that Drew will try for them again with such certainty and that it would be worse to not be quite sure and to have to live forever looking over your shoulders in some sort of fear or state of alert. And honestly, that's where the book left me as a reader, which unfortunately to a certain extent undid the lovely restful sense I had while reading it.
On the flip side, my other reservation with this book being about Malachi, the alpha with the extra, etc., was that there would be nowhere left to go from here. And Vane did the most amazing job of bringing Rhett's character to the fore in this story so that even as Malachi's stubbornness was frustrating me in the last third of this book, I was already looking forward to Rhett's story.
On the flip side, my other reservation with this book being about Malachi, the alpha with the extra, etc., was that there would be nowhere left to go from here. And Vane did the most amazing job of bringing Rhett's character to the fore in this story so that even as Malachi's stubbornness was frustrating me in the last third of this book, I was already looking forward to Rhett's story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2023
Summary: After escaping from an EVIL wolf pack, our leading lady asks our wolf boys for sanctuary.
Lots of healing and fighting ensues!
Pros: The conflict in this one is VERY interesting, and I was happy to get the Alpha’s story so soon (I assumed he would be last—guess not!). We get a bit more wolfie lore and I was quickly turning pages to the very end.
Cons: This one has some references to SA that might trigger some people, but it wasn’t really a con for me because it all happened off screen and had a more redemptive arc (for the victim).
Really, it was just the climax (again) that had me scratching my head. I was just waiting for SOMEONE to show up for some final showdown, and when he never did, it felt like the story was a bit incomplete (even though the romance was settled).
Maybe the author intends to have that part of the storyline carryover to the next one, but it still left me hanging (Curses on all authors who write standalones that aren’t really standalones. :P).
Conclusion: Alright, so I waited a bit to read this series (because I really like to binge) and now I seem to be left waiting at the WORST POSSIBLE SPOT. So yeah, hurry up and finish the next one. And if there are more in the series after that, write those ones too. I’m not a patient woman. :P
And you all can go read them so you can agonize along with me!!
Lots of healing and fighting ensues!
Pros: The conflict in this one is VERY interesting, and I was happy to get the Alpha’s story so soon (I assumed he would be last—guess not!). We get a bit more wolfie lore and I was quickly turning pages to the very end.
Cons: This one has some references to SA that might trigger some people, but it wasn’t really a con for me because it all happened off screen and had a more redemptive arc (for the victim).
Really, it was just the climax (again) that had me scratching my head. I was just waiting for SOMEONE to show up for some final showdown, and when he never did, it felt like the story was a bit incomplete (even though the romance was settled).
Maybe the author intends to have that part of the storyline carryover to the next one, but it still left me hanging (Curses on all authors who write standalones that aren’t really standalones. :P).
Conclusion: Alright, so I waited a bit to read this series (because I really like to binge) and now I seem to be left waiting at the WORST POSSIBLE SPOT. So yeah, hurry up and finish the next one. And if there are more in the series after that, write those ones too. I’m not a patient woman. :P
And you all can go read them so you can agonize along with me!!
January 24, 2024
4.5☆
This is my first book by this author and she did not disappoint.
A beautiful story full emotions. I couldn't put it down
The writing was beautiful the plot and the development were SO well written
The character's trauma was so 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘭. I found myself crying for them
Mal was super considerate super sweet super protective super everything 😭
He cared deeply about his loved ones & always took care of his pack even in his death bed he was only thinking about them 3
April was such a gentle soul. I just wanted to wrap her in veryyy long hug the whole book.
She was P̳e̳r̳f̳e̳c̳t̳ for Mal.
The ending was good but not what I wanted.
Some things were still left unfinished. I wanted drew dead and I wanted Mal to kill him 😑
Anyways, I loved Rhett and I can't wait for his book till then I'll check out the other books in this series!
Please read author's warning before reading this book. The FMC was abused & assaulted tho there's no flashbacks for the assault only her describing how she was abused.
This is my first book by this author and she did not disappoint.
A beautiful story full emotions. I couldn't put it down
The writing was beautiful the plot and the development were SO well written
The character's trauma was so 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘭. I found myself crying for them
Mal was super considerate super sweet super protective super everything 😭
He cared deeply about his loved ones & always took care of his pack even in his death bed he was only thinking about them 3
April was such a gentle soul. I just wanted to wrap her in veryyy long hug the whole book.
She was P̳e̳r̳f̳e̳c̳t̳ for Mal.
The ending was good but not what I wanted.
Some things were still left unfinished. I wanted drew dead and I wanted Mal to kill him 😑
Anyways, I loved Rhett and I can't wait for his book till then I'll check out the other books in this series!
Please read author's warning before reading this book. The FMC was abused & assaulted tho there's no flashbacks for the assault only her describing how she was abused.
September 17, 2023
I really love this series. And this book was just as good, if not better. While most of the story ends, there is one thread left hanging to continue into the next book or possibly the series. The next one is about the loner, Rhett. The one that didn't grow up with the pack, but showed up about three years before. You learn a little bit more about him in this book.
I really hope that the author does both Corbin's and, especially, Nathan's story after Rhett's. I can't wait to read more about Nathan's glassblowing. I actually saw someone blow glass once live and it was amazing! And then I hope that she goes on to do an Apex vampire series! I would love to read about the artist vampire at the fair in Ezra's book and about Ember's vampire friend Claire.
I really hope that the author does both Corbin's and, especially, Nathan's story after Rhett's. I can't wait to read more about Nathan's glassblowing. I actually saw someone blow glass once live and it was amazing! And then I hope that she goes on to do an Apex vampire series! I would love to read about the artist vampire at the fair in Ezra's book and about Ember's vampire friend Claire.
December 12, 2023
Loved It!
When I realized book 4 was going to be about Malachi, I was looking forward to reading it so much, and the story absolutely didn’t disappoint!
Like the other books in the series, Malachi’s story was both heartbreaking and heartwarming. He’s appropriately rather larger than life, and the author did a tremendous job in creating a backstory (and a future) that was absolutely perfect for the character.
Last note: because one of the main characters had suffered sexual assault (only referred to in the story, but NOT described at all) the author prefaces the book with a compassionate caution as well as including resources for those readers who may have also suffered similar trauma. I found that very impressive.
When I realized book 4 was going to be about Malachi, I was looking forward to reading it so much, and the story absolutely didn’t disappoint!
Like the other books in the series, Malachi’s story was both heartbreaking and heartwarming. He’s appropriately rather larger than life, and the author did a tremendous job in creating a backstory (and a future) that was absolutely perfect for the character.
Last note: because one of the main characters had suffered sexual assault (only referred to in the story, but NOT described at all) the author prefaces the book with a compassionate caution as well as including resources for those readers who may have also suffered similar trauma. I found that very impressive.
April 22, 2024
"This is the Apex Moonbound series by @charlottevanebooks and it was the perfect series for me to binge this past week. I was feeling a fantasyish romance wolf mate book ( if that makes sense, lol). Each book brought something different and a different relationship, and I loved seeing all the couples. And of course, I love how they are in TN! You see strong FMC's , a family (pack) bond, and each MMC is different but loveable. In parts, you get some mental health rep and some and a little suspense at times. They are closed door but still romantic and loveable. You feel for each couple and their story and I just loved reading this series."
Emoji Summary 👉 🐺 🐈❤️🩹💪🏼🍔🥩☕️🩸🩹🫂🛤🌚
Emoji Summary 👉 🐺 🐈❤️🩹💪🏼🍔🥩☕️🩸🩹🫂🛤🌚
Did Not Finish
April 28, 2024making each book about a different couple should mean they can be read as standalones, no? it's really annoying when authors write a series about a different couple in each book but don't provide enough context about the world that a lot of things don't make sense unless you've read all the other books in the series in order.
the writing style here feels very fragmented and the dialogue is so awkward. you're thrown in the middle of this world armed with zero knowledge and its not enjoyable at all. dnf @ 35%
the writing style here feels very fragmented and the dialogue is so awkward. you're thrown in the middle of this world armed with zero knowledge and its not enjoyable at all. dnf @ 35%
September 6, 2023
All of the books in this series are amazing. They're cozy and lovely and make you feel all the things. But this one was a masterpiece. I knew I'd love Mal's story. He's so easy to love, and you find yourself rooting for both he and his mate throughout the book. I'm really looking forward to Rhett's story next!
September 6, 2023
I adore this whole series! I was a little disappointed in the lack of resolution though. I get that there’s another book coming, but I thought these were interconnected standalone books. I absolutely would have still read this one, I probably would have just put it off until closer to the next release so I wouldn’t forget details 🙂
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 10, 2023
So glad Malachai got his story
I loved Malachai getting his story. This gave us a lot of back information and raised questions about Rhette while answering some others. It was a good story
I loved Malachai getting his story. This gave us a lot of back information and raised questions about Rhette while answering some others. It was a good story
January 23, 2025
Best one so far. However, LIVID that I have to wait until book five for the plot arc introduced in this one to resolve. Horrible! (I am starting book 5 immediately).
Cry count (this one really had a chokehold on me): 6 times.
Cry count (this one really had a chokehold on me): 6 times.
September 6, 2023
Loved it!
I’m so glad it is finally Malachi’s turn! April is lovely and the story is excellent. I can’t wait for the next book!!
I’m so glad it is finally Malachi’s turn! April is lovely and the story is excellent. I can’t wait for the next book!!
September 17, 2023
Wonderful
I really enjoy Vane’s writing. Fun, detailed, and intense storylines.
Left one hanging story…finish off stupid Drew. Maybe next book?
I really enjoy Vane’s writing. Fun, detailed, and intense storylines.
Left one hanging story…finish off stupid Drew. Maybe next book?
June 18, 2024
Can I just say that I have never been more obsessed with a series than I have this one. Oh my gosh I couldn’t put it down! Well write with plenty of emotional tugging
July 23, 2024
4.75⭐️ i’m so happy that malachi got to have april. april is also very strong and i loved knowing mals backstory.
April 15, 2025
Unlike the other ones it feels like its not the end??? I need more of Mapril
April 27, 2025
I really enjoyed this story.
Content: clean - mild violence, references to past abuse
Content: clean - mild violence, references to past abuse
November 6, 2023
I have been waiting for Mal’s book! I very much enjoyed it but also felt it was incomplete. Didn’t have a cliffhanger but I kinda feel like it stopped 3/4 of the way through.
February 13, 2024
Ok so this was a really good book… but when it ended without a full resolution of the bad guys getting what’s coming I was a bit confused. But…. Then luckily a couple weeks later the next book came out and it does have that so I can happily say I liked this book. So as long as you’re planning to continue to the next in series I’m extremely sure you’ll love this one!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews