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Breeds #24
Dane's Mark
A new kind of Breed is faced with what happens when destiny and desire collide in the latest novel in the highly charged series from #1 New York Times bestselling author Lora Leigh.
A decade ago Katy Chavos was a proud misfit who had her heart broken, crushed by a man who drew her close with one breath and pulled away the next. He left a mark she’s done everything in her power to erase. But when Katy’s job brings her back to the hometown she couldn’t wait to escape, seeing Dane again awakens something inside her that won’t be tamed....
Dane Vanderale isn’t like other Breeds. As a hybrid he’s stronger, more primal, and more determined to hide it. He’s also certain that Katy is not his mate—not that that stops him from wanting her with every part of his soul. He knows he hurt her deeply and he intends to make things right, but she is dead set on keeping him at arm’s length.
Despite their painful history, Katy can’t deny the intense attraction she still feels for Dane. And before long, it will be impossible for either to deny the truth that has been in front of them all along....
A decade ago Katy Chavos was a proud misfit who had her heart broken, crushed by a man who drew her close with one breath and pulled away the next. He left a mark she’s done everything in her power to erase. But when Katy’s job brings her back to the hometown she couldn’t wait to escape, seeing Dane again awakens something inside her that won’t be tamed....
Dane Vanderale isn’t like other Breeds. As a hybrid he’s stronger, more primal, and more determined to hide it. He’s also certain that Katy is not his mate—not that that stops him from wanting her with every part of his soul. He knows he hurt her deeply and he intends to make things right, but she is dead set on keeping him at arm’s length.
Despite their painful history, Katy can’t deny the intense attraction she still feels for Dane. And before long, it will be impossible for either to deny the truth that has been in front of them all along....
288 pages, Hardcover
First published February 6, 2024
265 people are currently reading
3990 people want to read
About the author
Lora Leigh
190 books10.1k followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.
Lora Leigh is a New York Times bestselling author of erotic romance novels. Leigh started publishing with electronic publisher Ellora's Cave in 2003. Leigh's longest-running series is The Breeds. She won the 2009 RT Award for erotica. Leigh was born in Ohio and raised in Martin County, Kentucky, US.
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/6...
Lora Leigh is a New York Times bestselling author of erotic romance novels. Leigh started publishing with electronic publisher Ellora's Cave in 2003. Leigh's longest-running series is The Breeds. She won the 2009 RT Award for erotica. Leigh was born in Ohio and raised in Martin County, Kentucky, US.
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/6...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 246 reviews
February 7, 2024
Considering that I have waited for this book perhaps more than 10 years and have read 32 others in the meantime, to count only the novels and skip the various short stories, I can readily admit to being disappointed.
The change of publisher by Lora Leigh has led to a number of alterations not only in the mating ritual, which would be the least, but now we have a whole new main ARC with three mad kings and a whole new set of discoveries? Honestly, I don't know if I feel like reading at least another dozen books, maybe I can close the series here, with the happy ending of the one who remains the last of the old Breeds.
Considerato che ho aspettato questo libro forse piú di 10 anni e che nel frattempo ne ho letti altri 32, per contare soltanto i romanzi e saltare le varie short stories, posso ammettere senza problemi di essere delusa.
Il cambio di editore da parte di Lora Leigh ha portato ad una serie di alterazioni non solo nel rituale di mating, che sarebbe il minimo, ma adesso abbiamo tutta una nuova ARC principale con tre re matti e tutta una nuova serie di scoperte? Sinceramente non so se me la sento di leggere almeno un'altra decina di libri e forse posso chiuderla qui, con il lieto di fine di colui che resta l'ultimo dei vecchi Breeds.
The change of publisher by Lora Leigh has led to a number of alterations not only in the mating ritual, which would be the least, but now we have a whole new main ARC with three mad kings and a whole new set of discoveries? Honestly, I don't know if I feel like reading at least another dozen books, maybe I can close the series here, with the happy ending of the one who remains the last of the old Breeds.
Considerato che ho aspettato questo libro forse piú di 10 anni e che nel frattempo ne ho letti altri 32, per contare soltanto i romanzi e saltare le varie short stories, posso ammettere senza problemi di essere delusa.
Il cambio di editore da parte di Lora Leigh ha portato ad una serie di alterazioni non solo nel rituale di mating, che sarebbe il minimo, ma adesso abbiamo tutta una nuova ARC principale con tre re matti e tutta una nuova serie di scoperte? Sinceramente non so se me la sento di leggere almeno un'altra decina di libri e forse posso chiuderla qui, con il lieto di fine di colui che resta l'ultimo dei vecchi Breeds.
March 23, 2025
“Why can’t I let you go?” she whispered then, tormented.
“I don’t know, baby,” he answered her. “When you have an answer for that, then find the reason that I can’t stay away from you.”
Dane is meets his soul mate. Such a powerful and heartbreaking story. If you are a fan of Breeds, do not miss this book.
“I don’t know, baby,” he answered her. “When you have an answer for that, then find the reason that I can’t stay away from you.”
Dane is meets his soul mate. Such a powerful and heartbreaking story. If you are a fan of Breeds, do not miss this book.
November 3, 2023
First off, i’ve been a fan of this series for many many years, and i’m not ashamed to say that Dane has been a book boyfriend since Harmony’s book. Needless to say his story was bitter sweet for me as i’ve crushed on his non-existent a** for a long time and now he’s getting his HEA. I did feel like his love for Harmony should have been addressed a little differently, however, since it was mentioned so many times in the previous books, rather than just being singled to “not real” after he discovered halfbreed mate possibilities— the whole subtopic kinda got swept under the rug and even Katy never really mentions it again after the prologue.
Second, I really feel like this book sparked a new fire in the Breeds series. It feels like a reboot without feeling like a reboot, and seeing how important Dane is to the future of the series makes me even more happier to know that he will still make appearances like Jonas and Graeme. It also feels like it opens so many doors to more characters and hopefully more books!
Another small part of me felt that everything after the party chapter was oddly rushed? I think there was a serious groveling scene that was skipped out on when it came to Katy and how she felt sidelined with Dane. Basically all her insecurities concerning their relationship was kinda dropped after they mated, and with her being so important to the Breeds AKA “not an orphan”, I think something should have come from all of those issues rather than just going “ok all is better”. Maybe I read to much into it…
Overall it was an amazing book and I feel like it brought something new to the series that it was needing. Cassie’s book brought a end to a big chapter in the storyline and Dane’s opened a whole new book with the evolution of the Breeds. I’m so excited to see what happens next!
Thank you to Edelweiss+ and Lora Leigh for the Digital ARC.
Second, I really feel like this book sparked a new fire in the Breeds series. It feels like a reboot without feeling like a reboot, and seeing how important Dane is to the future of the series makes me even more happier to know that he will still make appearances like Jonas and Graeme. It also feels like it opens so many doors to more characters and hopefully more books!
Another small part of me felt that everything after the party chapter was oddly rushed? I think there was a serious groveling scene that was skipped out on when it came to Katy and how she felt sidelined with Dane. Basically all her insecurities concerning their relationship was kinda dropped after they mated, and with her being so important to the Breeds AKA “not an orphan”, I think something should have come from all of those issues rather than just going “ok all is better”. Maybe I read to much into it…
Overall it was an amazing book and I feel like it brought something new to the series that it was needing. Cassie’s book brought a end to a big chapter in the storyline and Dane’s opened a whole new book with the evolution of the Breeds. I’m so excited to see what happens next!
Thank you to Edelweiss+ and Lora Leigh for the Digital ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2024
What did I just read?
It feels like a prank, maybe a ghostwriter gone rogue.
Definitely not worth $12!
If you can overlook the typos, inconsistencies, and scattered thoughts of this story, you'll find yourself questioning where the love is. I can assure you - it's not in this book. The characters had no dimension, and the plot fell flat.
I had high hopes that this would be a pivotal book. Unfortunately, it read like an infomercial. New characters were introduced, old characters were briefly brought back, just long enough to finish a paragraph.
I didn't see this coming and I'm disappointed in the direction the author took it. This might be a good place to end it for me.
It feels like a prank, maybe a ghostwriter gone rogue.
Definitely not worth $12!
If you can overlook the typos, inconsistencies, and scattered thoughts of this story, you'll find yourself questioning where the love is. I can assure you - it's not in this book. The characters had no dimension, and the plot fell flat.
I had high hopes that this would be a pivotal book. Unfortunately, it read like an infomercial. New characters were introduced, old characters were briefly brought back, just long enough to finish a paragraph.
I didn't see this coming and I'm disappointed in the direction the author took it. This might be a good place to end it for me.
November 4, 2023
I will admit that I was a bit disappointed about this book. I have waited so long for Dane's story that I was expecting an epic love story but this wasn't it. Now don't get me wrong it was a good story and Lora Leigh always delivers but I was expecting a bit more of a bickering relationship at first. The one thing though about this book is the surprise twist that has me slathering at the mouth waiting for the next book in this series.
March 11, 2024
Katy’s heart was broken eight years ago when she overhears Dane Vanderale, the man she thought she had a connection with, say that Katy could never be part of his world. Katy had already had feelings of abandonment and not feeling good enough after being left by her mother and with the remaining family begrudgingly taking her in. Working in the local diner, she thought she struck up a friendship that felt like it could turn into more with Dane, but after hearing those words she’s crushed. Soon after Graeme Parker, a Bengal Breed, extends an offer of training and employment for Tech-Corp, and she leaves with him immediately.
Eight years later, Katy’s back in Broken Butte, New Mexico to oversee the Tech-Corp’s new facility there. She’s risen in the ranks and has grown in confidence. She now has friends and support, and Graeme is like the father she’s never had. But being back in Broken Butte brings back some of those bad memories and of course she’ll be running into Dane.
Much of the book is centered around the romance between Katy and Dane, why they have such a strong attraction if Katy doesn’t trigger the mating bond in Dane. This is a back and forth and Graeme knows the answer to this and for reasons I couldn’t understand doesn’t share it with Katy or Dane. I also didn’t understand why Katy didn’t question her origins when she’d have these episodes of adrenaline flooding her system and Graeme, a Breed, was the one to help her learn to control them. Also, I was irritated that Dane pulls a stunt that hurts Katy all over again and the thing is just swept under the rug without much of an apology. I get that a lot happened in the end, but come on.
There were characters gunning for Katy, an attempt on her life but that was just kind of swept away, too. I feel like it would’ve been a more interesting thread to pursue and include than just having the story on this whole mating business.
I haven’t read the previous books and I do feel like I would’ve enjoyed the story more if I had some prior experience with the world and characters, but it can also be read as a standalone. I will say that even with these niggles the story was entertaining and I did want to find out how it all turned out.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy courtesy of Berkley. All opinions are my own.
December 29, 2023
I've read short stories from this author in the past but this is my first novel. I have to say right after I went to order more of her books. This was an excellent novel with a fun plot and hot and steamy romance. The main character goes from a mousey waitress to a CEO style superpower. She rocks the worldview of the man who broke her heart and left her crying in his wake and proves him unworthy of the new her. I enjoy books like this with a good storyline, fun times and nothing too sappy or too tropey. I definitely found a new author here for my paranormal romance needs.
February 9, 2024
Disappointing - spoiler alert
Very disappointed in Danes story. It did move the breed story line along but Dane should have had a great book. It started out well but was not about the relationship, friendship or love between Dane and Katy, it seemed more about the history and future of the breed species. Not much chemistry, Katy basically loves Dane but he doesn't or can't acknowledge her as anything but someone he really wants not a mate. They don't interact with each other without arguing or fighting. Dane didn't even claim Her as his mate until the end of the book. Not happy that I paid that much for this book, not sure if I'll keep reading the series. I left it a while ago and was excited when i saw she was finally writing Danes book.
Very disappointed in Danes story. It did move the breed story line along but Dane should have had a great book. It started out well but was not about the relationship, friendship or love between Dane and Katy, it seemed more about the history and future of the breed species. Not much chemistry, Katy basically loves Dane but he doesn't or can't acknowledge her as anything but someone he really wants not a mate. They don't interact with each other without arguing or fighting. Dane didn't even claim Her as his mate until the end of the book. Not happy that I paid that much for this book, not sure if I'll keep reading the series. I left it a while ago and was excited when i saw she was finally writing Danes book.
February 8, 2024
I love the Breeds SO MUCH!!! I'm sad that i'm already done with this book but i can't seem to help myself when a new Breeds book comes out...i can never put them down! I hate that Lora Leigh writes so many other series because the Breeds series has had a tendency to take a back seat. It took 6 years for this book to be released after Cross Breed, the last Breeds book... that's way too long! Although, the fact that this was FINALLY Dane getting his HEA made up for the wait. So many new characters were introduced in this book so i'm hoping that means that Lora Leigh will be focusing more on the Breeds and we'll be getting a whole new batch of books soon!!...one can hope!
October 10, 2023
I'm going to be frank - Lora Leigh has lost her spark. This book doesn't even seem to be written by the same person who wrote the rest of the series. There is no background for readers. The story is boring. The characters are flat. As a reader, I had no desire to finish the book because I didn't like anyone involved. Very sorry I waited this long to get this sad of a book.
April 19, 2024
3.5
Everyone has their weakness and the Breeds is mine.
I enjoyed Dane’s Mark, even with the many nits both book and series have.
Yes, the book has some threats left hanging, the plot and characters deserved maybe more. But this is the magic of a well loved series. You know and simply don’t care.
Everyone has their weakness and the Breeds is mine.
I enjoyed Dane’s Mark, even with the many nits both book and series have.
Yes, the book has some threats left hanging, the plot and characters deserved maybe more. But this is the magic of a well loved series. You know and simply don’t care.
February 8, 2024
This series is one of my favorites, so it's always fun to read a new one. I was a bit stunned at how pissed off at Dane I was at the start of this one. The way that he treated Katy was very cavalier and she deserved better! I was glad that Katy called him out on how he treated her and that she found a way to remove herself from things and start a new life.
Fast forward some years and Katelyn is a very different person that Katy was, so sure of herself and has a great career and is now surrounded by people who really care about her. In a way, I hated to see her go home for work, you knew they remembered Katy, not Katelyn and that is a mistake. The construction guys found out the hard way, yet Katelyn gave them another chance. It's interesting that Katelyn runs into Dane again. While he over steps, she firmly puts him in his place again and rightly so.
From there things get interesting, as by the end of the book new knowledge has come out to the Breeds and they then share some things with the world. This is a big game changer for them all. I loved how the Breeds used this distraction to save others that needed it. I'm also intrigued by the outcome for Katelyn and Dane. It really was touch and go for them on many levels, but they managed to do what needed to be done to survive to their HEA, finally.
Fast forward some years and Katelyn is a very different person that Katy was, so sure of herself and has a great career and is now surrounded by people who really care about her. In a way, I hated to see her go home for work, you knew they remembered Katy, not Katelyn and that is a mistake. The construction guys found out the hard way, yet Katelyn gave them another chance. It's interesting that Katelyn runs into Dane again. While he over steps, she firmly puts him in his place again and rightly so.
From there things get interesting, as by the end of the book new knowledge has come out to the Breeds and they then share some things with the world. This is a big game changer for them all. I loved how the Breeds used this distraction to save others that needed it. I'm also intrigued by the outcome for Katelyn and Dane. It really was touch and go for them on many levels, but they managed to do what needed to be done to survive to their HEA, finally.
February 6, 2024
Review: DANE’S MARK (A Novel of the Breeds Book 33) by Lora Leigh https://bit.ly/42sFBZm
Publication Date: February 6, 2024
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Cori
Rated 4 Stars
I’ve been waiting for Dane’s story! I’ve loved him since he was first introduced in the series. I was a little disappointed in how he treated his mate in the beginning but he got there in the end. His story had all the heat Lora Leigh always packs in her books and had a lot of emotions and some danger. I fell harder for Dane in the end and he redeemed himself. I really enjoy the Breed Series and it’s a been a few years since I was able to revisit the Breed world Lora Leigh created. I hope there is a new release soon because the ending had some new charges and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
I recommend this series for paranormal romance readers that enjoy spicy love stories with some danger. The series doesn’t have to be read in order but it’s more enjoyable that way.
*Review copy provided by Penguin in exchange for an honest review.
~*~*~*~
Kindle https://amzn.to/48fpQX6
Publication Date: February 6, 2024
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Cori
Rated 4 Stars
I’ve been waiting for Dane’s story! I’ve loved him since he was first introduced in the series. I was a little disappointed in how he treated his mate in the beginning but he got there in the end. His story had all the heat Lora Leigh always packs in her books and had a lot of emotions and some danger. I fell harder for Dane in the end and he redeemed himself. I really enjoy the Breed Series and it’s a been a few years since I was able to revisit the Breed world Lora Leigh created. I hope there is a new release soon because the ending had some new charges and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
I recommend this series for paranormal romance readers that enjoy spicy love stories with some danger. The series doesn’t have to be read in order but it’s more enjoyable that way.
*Review copy provided by Penguin in exchange for an honest review.
~*~*~*~
Kindle https://amzn.to/48fpQX6
February 11, 2024
where’s the 2nd half of the story??
This story was so long coming and I was so excited to read it. It seems like it’s a different writer altogether. After something dramatic happens at a party, there’s a huge chunk of story that’s missing. Things aren’t resolved, no explanations or questions about what he was doing at the party with someone, just an out of the blue ok- she’s fine! The end. WhatTF? It honestly feels like there are at least 5 chapters missing after that at the minimum! It’s like she just got tired of writing and tagged a the end, sort of cliff hanger to it.
This story was so long coming and I was so excited to read it. It seems like it’s a different writer altogether. After something dramatic happens at a party, there’s a huge chunk of story that’s missing. Things aren’t resolved, no explanations or questions about what he was doing at the party with someone, just an out of the blue ok- she’s fine! The end. WhatTF? It honestly feels like there are at least 5 chapters missing after that at the minimum! It’s like she just got tired of writing and tagged a the end, sort of cliff hanger to it.
April 10, 2025
The past is upon us
I always knew Dane would end up having an epic tale, and I was not disappointed. The author not only told the story of a love greater than time and death, but she took the opportunity to explain the past and open new avenues for the future. I absolutely love Katy! She is strong, sweet, and resilient, with a core of true grit and grace that is hard to maintain with the life she has lived. And Dane finally lets his carefully crafted facade slip to reveal the loving, gentle soul buried within. Together with the support of some unexpected characters, these two have ushered in a new life for the Breeds. I can’t wait to see what happens next and read all about the loves that are sure to follow.
I always knew Dane would end up having an epic tale, and I was not disappointed. The author not only told the story of a love greater than time and death, but she took the opportunity to explain the past and open new avenues for the future. I absolutely love Katy! She is strong, sweet, and resilient, with a core of true grit and grace that is hard to maintain with the life she has lived. And Dane finally lets his carefully crafted facade slip to reveal the loving, gentle soul buried within. Together with the support of some unexpected characters, these two have ushered in a new life for the Breeds. I can’t wait to see what happens next and read all about the loves that are sure to follow.
November 19, 2024
I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOREVER for Dane’s book.
Interesting that the author use his book as a turning point to provide a revelation and therefore, opening up a new world where she has new characters to create stories from.
I did enjoy the push/pull between Dane and Katy but I find the ending way too abrupt as we never really got to see closure on Katy’s end on how she felt in consequences to Dane’s beep beep behaviour and also Dane’s grovelling. Both characters honestly didn’t spend that much time together to even warrant the feelings they have for each other really..
So, I’ll stick to her earlier books before everything else got to be a huge messs…
Interesting that the author use his book as a turning point to provide a revelation and therefore, opening up a new world where she has new characters to create stories from.
I did enjoy the push/pull between Dane and Katy but I find the ending way too abrupt as we never really got to see closure on Katy’s end on how she felt in consequences to Dane’s beep beep behaviour and also Dane’s grovelling. Both characters honestly didn’t spend that much time together to even warrant the feelings they have for each other really..
So, I’ll stick to her earlier books before everything else got to be a huge messs…
October 3, 2023
I’ve read every book in this series. I’ve been patiently waiting years for this book. I’ve wanted to learn about the mysterious Dane Vandervale. This book was so good I read it in a day. I learned so much more about the breeds. It also sets up some people who will need mates. Thank you for returning to this Series,
February 8, 2024
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
Dane's Mark is the most recent installment in the "Breeds" series. This is my most anticipated release of the year and really lets be honest, the whole decade. I absolutely adored everything about this book. There was so much wild fun that was packed into this story. Now was it the best of the series? No and I think I enjoyed "Cross Breed" a bit more. However, there were so many positive elements to this book and it had some amazing reveals that made it well worth the wait.
First Line
If you're new to the Breed world, you don't have to begin at the beginning, starting here is fine.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Dane Vanderale
The Heroine: Katy Chavos
Summary
Katy Chavos had to practically raise herself, she lost her mother at a young age and never knew her father and was passed around different families in the town that she grew up in. Now she is just fighting to survive so she can leave the town as soon as she can and make something of herself. But there is someone else holding her to this town....Dane Vanderale. Dane is a man that she loves deeply but when he spurns that love, she leaves the town for good. Dane had his reasons for turning away from Katy, believing her to be too young and Dane trying to do what is right for his people. But never imagined the pain he would deal to Katy or the depth of her heart for him or how it would impact him. Now its been years, and Katy has made a woman of herself. She is confident and strong and empowered and has come back to oversee a building project she is in charge of. What she doesn't plan on is the connection between herself and Dane to be more powerful than ever. But Dane isn't going to let Katy go this time, and will fight for her no matter what it takes.
What I Loved
Dane's Mark was such a powerful story. From the beginning, you are swept immediately into this story with such deep impactful emotion. I was literally feeling the pain from this heroine and your heart will immediately want to fight for her. And man their beginning scene together just had me melting for them and what this would do to their relationship and that there would need to be some good groveling for him to redeem himself.
What I really enjoyed though was the fact that even though the heroine turns into a woman that isn't my favorite type of heroine, we still see plenty of vulnerable sweet moments with her so she ended up working for me. And you can see how much of the toughness stems from her protecting her heart due to how much Dane hurt her. But we do see such strength and resilience that comes from her character. You see the friendship that she has developed with others. Now do I think who she was before made her weak? Nope ...there is strength in being vulnerable with someone and having a softer personality. And we still see glimpses of that softer personality at times within in.
The plot was so fascinating though, there is a plot of danger that is after Katy. But there is also a dynamic of Dane and Katy working through their issues. The spice is on point and I really enjoyed that element of seeing them learning to trust each other and even though at times they hurt one another, it feels real in many ways. Then we have the reveals that come into this story. These reveals happen in the third act so it was really fascinating to see what Lora Leigh reveals in the story. I was so BLOWN AWAY by what is revealed. Like Lora Leigh throwing out any knowledge you may have of the Breeds and thrown it into the mixer and now you have something different and deep that you never expected would happen. Lora Leigh definitely doesn't pull any punches with this story at all. I am not sure where the author plans on taking the series moving forward, but its going to be wild and I am ready for it!
What I Struggled With
The heroine at times was a bit too hard but it didn't really take away from the enjoyment of the story.
Overall View
I found Dane's Mark to be a brilliant story that captivated my heart from the beginning! Dane's Mark is a story that will enthrall you, guaranteed to pierce you deeply with impactful emotion and the plot growth will drive you wild! GET READY FOR A CRAZY ADVENTURE THAT BECOMES A TRUE GEM OF THE SERIES!
Favorite Quote(s)
“Can you walk away from this now, Katelyn?” he asked, brushing his lips against her ear. “I watched for you, searched for you for years. Because I couldn’t forget you. It wasn’t finished, and we both knew it.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Science Fiction/PNR
Character Types: Alpha Hero, Alpha Heroine, Royalty, Shape Shifter
Themes: Tear Jerker, Pining Hero and Pining Heroine, Danger, Kick Ass
Tropes: Unrequited Love, Fated Love
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A Mix of Both
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Laurann Dohner
Christine Feehan
Jennifer Ashley
Song This Book Inspires
Die Another Day by Madonna
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a standlone if needed, but the little details will make sense if you read it in order
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
March 23, 2024
Dane's Mark
4 Stars
Dane Vanderale, the hybrid son of the first feline Breed, has dedicated his life to protecting his family and his people. For decades he has feared the onset of Mating Heat; thus, when he first meets Katy Chavos and feels an undeniable attraction for the shy and reserved town misfit, he is relieved that the signs of heat fail to appear. Then, a careless word breaks the young girl's fragile heart and sets in motion a series of events that will have dangerous consequences for Dane, for Katy, and for the Breed community at large...
Series note: This is a long-running series, and this installment contains numerous references to characters and events from earlier books. Leigh provides a useful introduction outlining several important world-building elements as well as a helpful glossary of terms at the end.
Similar to Cross Breed, Dane's book is another eagerly anticipated story that, more or less, hits all the right notes.
Katelyn is a sweet heroine who has suffered tremendously but has, nevertheless, overcome all obstacles to make something of herself. Dane, the once mischievous playboy, struggles with his feelings for her in the absence of Mating Heat. Their romance has all of the recognizable and entertaining hallmarks of previous couples in denial about the significance of their attraction.
There are a couple of problems with this storyline. The first is Graham Parker, who clearly knows more about Katy and Dane's connection than meets the eye, but his cryptic hints and prevaricating are annoying rather than intriguing. Second, several plot threads are either ignored or resolved as an afterthought, including Dane's and the .
Despite these issues, the compelling developments in the ongoing conflict with the Genetics Council and the exciting revelations concerning the origins of the Breeds are excellent and open new avenues for future books.
The next book will focus on Lobo Reever and Khileen Langer - based on the information on this couple so far, sparks, or should I say fur, is going to fly...
4 Stars
Dane Vanderale, the hybrid son of the first feline Breed, has dedicated his life to protecting his family and his people. For decades he has feared the onset of Mating Heat; thus, when he first meets Katy Chavos and feels an undeniable attraction for the shy and reserved town misfit, he is relieved that the signs of heat fail to appear. Then, a careless word breaks the young girl's fragile heart and sets in motion a series of events that will have dangerous consequences for Dane, for Katy, and for the Breed community at large...
Series note: This is a long-running series, and this installment contains numerous references to characters and events from earlier books. Leigh provides a useful introduction outlining several important world-building elements as well as a helpful glossary of terms at the end.
Similar to Cross Breed, Dane's book is another eagerly anticipated story that, more or less, hits all the right notes.
Katelyn is a sweet heroine who has suffered tremendously but has, nevertheless, overcome all obstacles to make something of herself. Dane, the once mischievous playboy, struggles with his feelings for her in the absence of Mating Heat. Their romance has all of the recognizable and entertaining hallmarks of previous couples in denial about the significance of their attraction.
There are a couple of problems with this storyline. The first is Graham Parker, who clearly knows more about Katy and Dane's connection than meets the eye, but his cryptic hints and prevaricating are annoying rather than intriguing. Second, several plot threads are either ignored or resolved as an afterthought, including Dane's and the .
Despite these issues, the compelling developments in the ongoing conflict with the Genetics Council and the exciting revelations concerning the origins of the Breeds are excellent and open new avenues for future books.
The next book will focus on Lobo Reever and Khileen Langer - based on the information on this couple so far, sparks, or should I say fur, is going to fly...
January 10, 2025
Dane’s Mark
Breeds, Book 24
I Picked Up This Book Because: Continue the series
Media Type: Audiobook
Source: A Public Library
Dates Read: 1/7/25 - 1/10/25
Rating: 2.5 Stars
Narrator(s): Brianna Bronte
The Characters:
Dane Vanderale:
Katy Chavos:
Graham, several other breeds and their mates
The Story:
The Shannon that read and loved this series in the early 2000s is not the same Shannon who just read this book in 2025. I found some of the concepts outdated and icky and the plot was convoluted and was trying very hard to make sense, which it barely did. I found the dialogue extremely cringy in some parts but I’m not sure if that was the writing or the narrator. I’m sad to say this wasn’t the triumphant return to the series I expected, and I’m torn on if I will continue it but I’m grateful for the memories.
Breeds, Book 24
I Picked Up This Book Because: Continue the series
Media Type: Audiobook
Source: A Public Library
Dates Read: 1/7/25 - 1/10/25
Rating: 2.5 Stars
Narrator(s): Brianna Bronte
The Characters:
Dane Vanderale:
Katy Chavos:
Graham, several other breeds and their mates
The Story:
The Shannon that read and loved this series in the early 2000s is not the same Shannon who just read this book in 2025. I found some of the concepts outdated and icky and the plot was convoluted and was trying very hard to make sense, which it barely did. I found the dialogue extremely cringy in some parts but I’m not sure if that was the writing or the narrator. I’m sad to say this wasn’t the triumphant return to the series I expected, and I’m torn on if I will continue it but I’m grateful for the memories.
February 27, 2024
Well that was disappointing.
Also this book felt like it was written by a different author??? Or wasn’t edited or something?? It was a super weird writing style that didn’t match any of her other books.
The “love” story (if you wanna call it that) was rushed and boring, which is extremely disappointing for a character like Dane, whose story we’ve all be waiting for for a long time. It felt like it was missing 10 chapters at the end and the “surprise twist” was so unnecessary and a cheap way of progressing the books and adding new characters when there are still so many unfinished stories within the existing ones.
I literally returned it on kindle cause I was so disappointed. Maybe this series is over for me.
Also this book felt like it was written by a different author??? Or wasn’t edited or something?? It was a super weird writing style that didn’t match any of her other books.
The “love” story (if you wanna call it that) was rushed and boring, which is extremely disappointing for a character like Dane, whose story we’ve all be waiting for for a long time. It felt like it was missing 10 chapters at the end and the “surprise twist” was so unnecessary and a cheap way of progressing the books and adding new characters when there are still so many unfinished stories within the existing ones.
I literally returned it on kindle cause I was so disappointed. Maybe this series is over for me.
August 9, 2024
After all these years, waiting for Dane’s story…well, I really shouldn’t have bothered. Disappointing AF.
And Katy deserved better.
And Katy deserved better.
April 24, 2024
Something was missing?
...like maybe at least a third of the plot. For how long we've been waiting for book 33 and for all the buildup about Dane, I wholeheartedly believe Dane and we readers deserved better. Come on! he's been waiting for his book at least 50 years, even tho for me it has felt like a hundred and he's the damn holy hybrid!!! So Lora... darling, you should have done better by him. This book felt like a novella and I couldn't connect with Katelyn at all, the big evil was dealt with in a sentence, Graeme felt like a caricature of the character we've met before and we didn't get any of the introspection/motivations/explanation we've had in the other books, in short this felt like an outline of the book we should still be waiting for. I'm still giving it 3.5 stars, because it's a new Lora Leigh BREEDS BOOK! and A for effort, it was still entertaining and engaging, I after all did read it in a day. Give me more please, like this but more more!
On a whole other point, did anyone else feel deceived, I was all into the next one being Khi and Lobo's book cause clear epilogue foreshadowing and where is my Cassie and Cain wedding peep I was hinted at!!!! I need that book more than I needed this phoned in new arc introduction of 19 unmated alpha males. That is all.
...like maybe at least a third of the plot. For how long we've been waiting for book 33 and for all the buildup about Dane, I wholeheartedly believe Dane and we readers deserved better. Come on! he's been waiting for his book at least 50 years, even tho for me it has felt like a hundred and he's the damn holy hybrid!!! So Lora... darling, you should have done better by him. This book felt like a novella and I couldn't connect with Katelyn at all, the big evil was dealt with in a sentence, Graeme felt like a caricature of the character we've met before and we didn't get any of the introspection/motivations/explanation we've had in the other books, in short this felt like an outline of the book we should still be waiting for. I'm still giving it 3.5 stars, because it's a new Lora Leigh BREEDS BOOK! and A for effort, it was still entertaining and engaging, I after all did read it in a day. Give me more please, like this but more more!
On a whole other point, did anyone else feel deceived, I was all into the next one being Khi and Lobo's book cause clear epilogue foreshadowing and where is my Cassie and Cain wedding peep I was hinted at!!!! I need that book more than I needed this phoned in new arc introduction of 19 unmated alpha males. That is all.
August 21, 2025
Interesting
Spice 🌶🌶
This is the first book I've read by this author. The writing is good and there is very elaborate world building. I enjoyed the characters and most of the time the MFC was strong, but she did have some insecurities steming from her childhood & the man she loved. That being said, there were times I was bored with the content and felt like I was reading the same dialogue over and over again. I also did not really get the feels for this relationship. There was no redemption for Dane, I mean did he even try to win over the MFC? If you're looking for an epic love story, you won't find it here.
I am assuming I read this book out of order, because although it is a complete book, i was confused through most of it and it was a bit to techincal around the science at times. Although there was a cheat sheet at the beginning and end around the world & breeds and different organizations, it felt like a crash course for those who read them out of order, which apparently I did.
Spice 🌶🌶
This is the first book I've read by this author. The writing is good and there is very elaborate world building. I enjoyed the characters and most of the time the MFC was strong, but she did have some insecurities steming from her childhood & the man she loved. That being said, there were times I was bored with the content and felt like I was reading the same dialogue over and over again. I also did not really get the feels for this relationship. There was no redemption for Dane, I mean did he even try to win over the MFC? If you're looking for an epic love story, you won't find it here.
I am assuming I read this book out of order, because although it is a complete book, i was confused through most of it and it was a bit to techincal around the science at times. Although there was a cheat sheet at the beginning and end around the world & breeds and different organizations, it felt like a crash course for those who read them out of order, which apparently I did.
July 8, 2024
I'm sure that everyone who is a fan of the Breeds was waiting for the release of Lora Leigh's book in the Breed series, Dane's Mark. Dane Vanderale is the mysterious hybrid son of the first Leo and his human mate, Elizabeth. Dane always pops into Lora Leigh's stories without giving much away, so it was a pleasure to have him featured in his own story.
Dane's Mark is about Breed secrets. Everyone seems to have one, and some of them must be shared. In this story, there's a Breed secret that will tremendously affect both the Breed and human worlds. Dane is part of the secret, and he struggles with keeping silent. But there's more. His love interest, Katelyn, has a secret unbeknownst to her that will shake things up.
Dane's Mark is a slow sizzle that explodes as secrets emerge in the last few chapters. Lora Leigh hits her readers with surprises, including new characters, that will leave them wanting more.
A fast and enjoyable read.
Dane's Mark is about Breed secrets. Everyone seems to have one, and some of them must be shared. In this story, there's a Breed secret that will tremendously affect both the Breed and human worlds. Dane is part of the secret, and he struggles with keeping silent. But there's more. His love interest, Katelyn, has a secret unbeknownst to her that will shake things up.
Dane's Mark is a slow sizzle that explodes as secrets emerge in the last few chapters. Lora Leigh hits her readers with surprises, including new characters, that will leave them wanting more.
A fast and enjoyable read.
March 6, 2024
The one story that I had been waiting on for YEARS and it was such a let down. Dane has always fascinated me and to see his story go like this was not to my liking...for the most part. I had no issue with Dane and his mate, Katelyn. The author did not put enough dialogue for each other to convey why they became mates. They didn't spend enough time together for me to get their HEA.
The first 70% was sooooo slow. I didn't want so much information on Katelyn's work duties and what not. After that it picks up a bit and I liked the ending. We get introduced to new characters and the way The Breeds series will go.
Now to see if Ryan DeSalvo gets a story and there are three new characters that have caught my eye.
The first 70% was sooooo slow. I didn't want so much information on Katelyn's work duties and what not. After that it picks up a bit and I liked the ending. We get introduced to new characters and the way The Breeds series will go.
Now to see if Ryan DeSalvo gets a story and there are three new characters that have caught my eye.
July 27, 2025
Thank you to the publisher for an eArc of this novel; all opinions are my own.
This is a Lora Leigh novel and I’ve read so many of her books, I knew what to expect. It’s not my favorite from her, but it’s not my least favorite either. I thought it was a fun read and my first book in the Breed’s series, but I was still able to keep up. I will say, all the information was incredibly repetitive and yes, I had to suspend my disbelief for a lot of it. I also wasn’t crazy about Dane, to be honest. Definitely not my favorite hero. Altogether this was fine. It was hot, it was spicy, it was fine.
This is a Lora Leigh novel and I’ve read so many of her books, I knew what to expect. It’s not my favorite from her, but it’s not my least favorite either. I thought it was a fun read and my first book in the Breed’s series, but I was still able to keep up. I will say, all the information was incredibly repetitive and yes, I had to suspend my disbelief for a lot of it. I also wasn’t crazy about Dane, to be honest. Definitely not my favorite hero. Altogether this was fine. It was hot, it was spicy, it was fine.
February 18, 2024
Me encantó que esta vez el romance no fuera un instalove.
Lloré al inicio, lloré a la mitad y lloré casi al final.
Este libro tuvo más drama que los anteriores. Graeme lo amé más de lo que ya lo hacía. Más la nueva información. Dios, nueva info, nuevos personajes y yo solo quiero que sigan saliendo más libros KAKKFKDD
TKM Lora por tan maravilloso trabajo.
Lloré al inicio, lloré a la mitad y lloré casi al final.
Este libro tuvo más drama que los anteriores. Graeme lo amé más de lo que ya lo hacía. Más la nueva información. Dios, nueva info, nuevos personajes y yo solo quiero que sigan saliendo más libros KAKKFKDD
TKM Lora por tan maravilloso trabajo.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2024
Ohh Dane I had such high hopes for you and I'm left longing. I've read every book in this series and was really looking forward to finally reading Dane's story only to find this book the worst in the series for me. There was no romance, mating heat and sexy time like we are use to seeing from all her previous books. I also felt this book was way over priced for what you got, only the last few chapters really took off for me. I'm holding out hope that the next book is more to my liking.
February 12, 2024
Breeds
I’ve been waiting for this book for years!! I’m so very glad you wrote it!! Thank you so much for this!! I know your other fans feel the same way as I do!
I’ve been waiting for this book for years!! I’m so very glad you wrote it!! Thank you so much for this!! I know your other fans feel the same way as I do!
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