The fourth book in the erotic, dark paranormal fantasy series, Eye Of The Storm.
The full moon has been and gone, beginning a new phase of greater surety for the wolves of Surrey and the mated four who lead them. Ryan's old pack from Wiltshire – a force to be reckoned with – have ensured their immediate safety from The Trident ... but what will they demand in return for their protection?
As Lydia and Lawrence heal old wounds, finding solace in each other, Ryan battles with his own past. He'd do anything to keep the pack he loves safe, but 'anything' might have consequences he never imagined.
Meanwhile, Selena's sole focus is in keeping herself intact as Gabriel relishes in breaking her. What will she have to become in order to survive?
And Sarah has some tough choices to make, all of which will test her beliefs and challenge her boundaries of what makes good, and what makes evil.
Written in British English. Contains scenes of explicit sex and violence that some readers may find disturbing.
Dianna Hardy is an international bestselling author of (cross-genre) fantasy fiction, most notable for her dark paranormal fantasy and the raw, intense Eye of the Storm series. But her heart-warming Once Times Thrice series proves she thrives in the light as much as the dark. Whatever your poison, what she loves most is to bring you stories that are action-packed, fast-paced and not short of heat, with the focus on character development, relationship dynamics, and the plot. She writes full-length novels and short fiction.
Although quite active online, Dianna prefers the quiet company of nature and animals to the hustle and bustle of people. She loves anything paranormal (she doesn't really consider it "para"), organic food, walking barefoot, the smell of the woods after rain, and summer days.
However, she is also sustained by coffee, chocolate and the occasional vodka.
Having graduated from Richmond Drama School (London) in '98, she spent the next few years in a multitude of jobs (both acting and non-acting), studying anything that fascinated her, searching her soul, and finally found her passion where it had always been: at the end of a pen.
She currently lives in South Hampshire, England with her partner and their daughter, where she writes full time.
What an incredible book. I was lucky to be a Beta reader for this instalment of "The Eye of the Storm" series, and what a privilege it was. This new chapter of Lydia, Ryan, Lawrence and Taylor's story is the best one yet! "Return of the Wolf" explores, more than others, Ryan's story. We find out who he was and how he came to be Lawrence's saviour, we learn about his damaged past, his regrets, his perceived failures. We fall in love with him a little deeper. The world is magnified and explained in more depth as well, we discover the Druid Wolves, the packs of Wiltshire and Somerset, their inner workings and their ties to the Surrey pack. This is also, in my opinion, Selena's book. At the end of book 3 her life takes a pretty damaging turn, but this girl is one that does not give up, and love her or hate her for her choices, I connected with her character and just "got her". This book is dark, much darker than the previous ones, with very delicate subjects that are told with beautiful delicacy and emotion and without glorifying or misusing the terrible acts that are committed by the baddies in the story. I loved it and cannot recommend this series enough. Saucy in all the right places, this series is about need for redemption, need for acceptance and need for love, and "Return of the Wolf" brings all of this into prominence with the ties of the bonded foursome becoming those of a truly loving family. More of this please :)
When I first read Releasing the Wolf (Eye of the Storm: Book One) I fell in love with Ryan. I'm not ashamed to admit that. He is honest, direct, funny, passionate, and you just knew where you stood with him, and well, I have to say I fell in love with him all over again in Return of the Wolf.
Book four is all about acceptance. Accepting your mistakes, regrets, the actions you took whether they were ultimately the wrongs steps to take. It's about forgiving yourself. Accepting yourself; realizing we all make mistakes, we're not perfect, but unique, and everything we go through even if it is painful and difficult, we grow and learn from those mistakes.
The book is also about survival; the survival of the species as well as one's self. Strength that is found when you are alone and suffering, strength that comes from knowing you are loved and accepted by those around you.
Return of the Wolf is darker than the first three books - although there has been darkness from the beginning that has been building slowly. The subjects are very real, and very delicate, but so very understandable in relation to the characters and their histories. None of the issues have been glorified in any way. Dianna Hardy has handled those matters with such delicacy that as a reader you are able to follow, understand, and sympathize with all characters involved.
The book starts from where we left at the end of book three, Heart of the Wolf. The Wiltshire and Somerset Packs are on Lawrence's land, you may remember that they came to help at the end of book three when the Surrey Pack were under attack by the Tridents, led by the wretched Gabriel.
Well, the presence of these packs and the leader, Nikolai has Ryan very much on edge.
Book four is Ryan's book. Although, Lawrence is the quite of the three males it is actually Ryan that we know less about, until this book. We get to meet Ryan as a young boy, to learn about his pack, their politics, fears, plans . . . We see what he has had to go through, what happened to bring him to Lawrence and in turn for him to get to this point in his life, and you really feel for him in this book. He has carried such guilt with him over something that was not his fault, and he has such fear, and out of all of the main characters Ryan is the rock. So to see that change, that vulnerability, and then to witness how his mates will take the place as being the rock; his strength, support, show forgiveness and love, it's beautiful. It's beautiful to see how these characters have progressed individually through the books, but also together.
Nikolai is a creep. He literally makes your skin crawl, which proves that he is a fantastically written character, but he is sly, and charming; constantly weaving, and manipulating. I disliked him more than Gabriel who is a wretched man, but for a completely different reason. He feels he has power - and mainly over women - because he is a man. I have never been fond of Selena, but I did feel for her at the end of book three, and then so very much during book four. She is a very strong character who has had to endure so much, but despite the fact I hate to love her the way she claimed her power at the end, well, I found myself respecting her.
Lydia and Lawrence, it is wonderful to see their progression as a couple. Lawrence is the most complex out of the main group of characters and he is slowly opening up with each book. There is warmth there, and a need for acceptance and love, and he deserves that so much after everything he has been through. Lydia has a few shocks in this book, but she handles them with her own unique strength and remains to be the wonderful feisty red-head she is.
Taylor, such an understanding sweet-heart, supportive, calming ... He's a lot more settled, but still trying to find his place within the relationship, but he is getting there. I really can't wait to see the progression of his and Ryan's relationship as it develops.
The Eye of the Storm world is starting to open up. We have met some of the other packs, the druids, we see a hint of magic taking place in this book, we learn something shocking by the end of the book, and well, I'm just excited to see because by the time I reached the last page my jaw was literally on the floor.
Overall, Return of the Wolf delves deeper; it goes to some of the darker places of this world and some of the characters pasts, but through their experiences, actions and journeys you reconnect, you find a deeper respect for them, or an understanding; or at least I did. The build up for each book is a killer, but I'm really looking forward to the next instalment. The Eye of the Storm Series keeps you on your toes, packed with action, humour, passion, and many heartfelt moments, you can't help but love these werewolves and keep hold of hope for all of them.
(This book was received from author in exchange for an honest review.)
I received a free copy of the book from the author for my honest opinion.
In Return of the Wolf book #4 of the Eye of the Storm series we get to know Ryan a little bit more. We get to find out where he came from. We find out who he was and what he went through as a child. We find out who his pack was and how he ended up with Lawrence and his pack. We learn all about Ryan's old pack leader who he is and what he did to Ryan and other males in their pack. Ryan has been holding on to his past and keeping it locked up inside of him all these years but now it is time to let it out. Ryan is kind of worried about what his mates will think of him when they find out. But what Ryan hasn't quite figured out yet is that his mates are some very amazing folks who love and care for him more than he knows.
In book #3 Selena wanted Taylor for her mate and she was determined to get him no matter what it would cost him or his mates. But when she tried to get him she screwed up and ended up mating with Gabriel. Gabriel thinks he is god's gift to women. He is a male chauvinist pig who thinks that women are beneath him that they are no more than floor mats for him to walk on. A part of me thinks that Selena got what she deserved after what she did to Taylor and Lydia but the other part of me thinks that no one deserves what she has to endure with Gabriel. But she is a strong person and will fight until the very end to get what she wants.
Lydia has a lot of different things of her own that she is having to deal with at the moment so when she hears Ryan's story she decides now is not the time to lay her problems on him. She knows she will have to tell him sooner or later and she will. But right now she is just thinking about Ryan and how he feels; which is a person with a very good heart in my book. I loved that she puts her mate's feelings before her own. But so do her mates.
I have truly enjoyed reading the Eye of the Storm books. I really don't know which one is my favorite. I loved the first one where Lydia, Ryan, Lawrence and Taylor all three mated. But I have really loved finding out more about Ryan the one who seems like the "Big Guy". I think I am kind of jealous of Lydia having three "hotties" for mates. She is one lucky girl!
I can't wait to read more about Lydia, Ryan, Lawrence, Taylor and also Selena and what she may put ole' Gabriel through. What kind of punishment will she come up with? What about Sarah and Amil will they end up together?
If you have not read the Eye of the Storm books then you are definitely missing out. Dianna knows how to take words and wrap them around your heart. She will have you crying one minute and laughing the next. Oh and once in a while she will have you cussing out some of the characters and wanting to beat the sh*t out of them. So if you have not read any of the Eye of the Storm series then you need to get to clicking and a reading because you are going to want to start with the first book Releasing the Wolf.
This is the fourth book in the Eye Of The Storm Series. I loved it!
Lydia is a fantastic character. I have really liked her from the start. She is a strong and stubborn woman, who has now had her first change and has fully embraced her mates and her life as a werewolf. However, her life is still complicated by the Trident's. Ryan, in a desperate attempt to keep his three mates safe, calls on his old pack for assistance.
I have been eagerly awaiting the release of this book for months! I started this story and couldn't put it down. In fact, I read this in one sitting! The story continues from the end of the third book and is again told from various points of view. I have missed these wolves a lot!
In this story, we get to know Ryan and his past in more detail. There are secrets in his past that, once revealed, made me love him even more. I was intrigued with his druid background, and this made me wonder if this is why he was able to connect with Lydia in her dreams before they met. I also loved watching his and Taylor's growing attraction for each other blossom. Lawrence is still quite reserved, but since his story was revealed in book 3, he has begun to be more at ease with his mates. Sarah, meanwhile, is going through her own problems now that Amil has disappeared. I love the one scene outside of her house containing cats and Tridents, but I will not go into detail because of spoilers, which I try not to include in my reviews. I did feel a bit sorry for Selena for being accidentally mated to Gabriel, the Trident leader. However, as the story progressed, I found myself feeling sorry for Gabriel instead. Their story is rather twisted and convoluted, and it had me cringing at times. Gabriel is evil, but Selena is very manipulative. Their relationship takes a decided twist near the end of the book, which has me wondering what's coming next! The story has several twists and turns, not to mention shocking revelations, and is masterfully told. The sensual heat factor in the story is hot enough to start a fire, and the ending has left me wanting more! I cannot wait to read the next book as soon as possible!
Dianna Hardy is one of my favorite authors. I love her writing style, which is fast paced and fluid. Reading her books are a joy, and I will continue to read them for as long as she keeps writing them.
Due to the explicit sensual content and some bad language, I do not recommend this book for younger readers. However, I highly recommend this book (and series) if you love HOT erotic paranormal romances with sexy werewolves. - Lynn Worton
This is the fourth book in the Eye of the Storm series and I have to say it has just become my favourite. I'm so in awe of Dianna and how she surprises me which each book. I thought Lawrence's secret was a shock, but bloody hell Ryan's past blew me away. Ryan has never really caught my attention that has always been on Taylor (Mine.) In saying that over the last two books I have come to realize that I just love the four of them together. They each have a story and the way, Dianna weaves them all together, with Lydia accepting her three mates no matter what, keeps me hooked and wanting more. I love the sexual chemistry between them all, it's raw and although there wasn't a lot in this one, you just really feel it between them all. Ryan and Taylor (Fans herself) more please. I love the evilness in books and oh yes, it was in abundance in this one. I didn't know who to hate the most Nikolai, Gabriel or Selena. Naughty Dianna almost had me feeling sorry for Selena, but by the end of the back the bitch was back. Gabriel has met his match in Selena. Lydia better watch her back, I can't wait for the next book to find out what happens there. I cheered when Lawrence decided to step up and with Lydia by his side, I have no doubt they will get the future we had a glimpse at. Gladys, who the hell is Gladys? And what of Sarah and Amil? I need the next book NOW. I have loved this series from the very beginning and highly recommend it.
Return of the Wolf is the 4th installment in the Eye Of The Storm series. This series has made me fall in love with wolves when before I had no passion for them at all! Dianna can do that! She writes characters who you just can't help fall in love with! This is Ryan's story! Ryan has captured my heart from book 1! His story is darker than I had hoped for him but definitely explains his character! It was nice to see all the sides of Ryan! Although this is Ryan's story...we still get our full interaction with Taylor, Lawrence, and Lydia (who I am very jealous of, she gets 3 hotties!). We also learn more of Selena who just continues to make my heart hurt... I can hardly wait for the next book in this series! To see what lies ahead for these wolves and their friends and not to forget their enemies as well! Dianna's work never fails to amaze me!
(I received this arc in exchange for an honest review)
Reviewed by Bex Disclosure: This ebook was provided by the author in exchange for an HONEST and not necessarily positive review.
As a huge fan of this series, I was so relieved that Dianna Hardy has once again captivated me by her amazing prose, hot-as-hell scenes and by her ability to keep a series fresh and original.
It's always reassuring when an author continues to push her characters, often in ways unexpected. Dianna Hardy successfully manages that in 'Return Of The Wolf'. The characters, who I have pretty serious crushes on, continue to be amazing characters to follow. The author allows her gorgeous wolves to grow and evolve.
The action is intense, the heat level scorching and the plot is bloody fabulous and original. I eagerly await the next installment of Dianna Hardy's five-star series.
This series has been one of my absolute faves since the very first book. Incredibly well written & developed characters, crazy, erotic relationships with a continued focus on Lydia, Taylor, Lawrence & Ryan....
Ryan's backstory is featured in this 4th book. Secrets, family trauma/drama and more unfold and the pack does not disappoint in their reactions, love and support.
Selena ~ my oh my girl what a dreadful situation you have gotten yourself into... this story is much darker than those before but a read that I literally could not put down...
Highly recommend this author for all of her books ~ this series is incredibly hot and not for the faint of heart ~ gotta like a little crazy in your books for sure :)
Fabulous fourth book in the Eye of the Storm series by Dianna Hardy, where we get to find out more of what was started in the first three books and yet leaves us with more questions and some head scratching moments. Which I guess is good, since there are still two books to go! It's that infuriating moment of reaching the end of the book and realising, "Nooooo! I have to wait HOW long for the next one?" Stuff becomes clearer, stuff gets a bit murkier and there a couple of people you seriously want to slap upside the head. Big reveals and soul searching. And cat poop. Lots and lots of cat poop!
i was gifted an arc in return for an honest review,and WOW what can i say dianna never lets me down, These books just get better and better. Dianna has a way of writting that gets you hooked all the charcters are well described and lovable even the baddies in a strange kinda way,This book is the darkest yet, I love that diannas explained ryans passed and some of the others past lifes aswell.this book has well and truely earned 5 stars from me and would score it more if i could, well done dianna i love your work and looking forward to the next book
I read this in the Omnibus. It's a better deal. This was an awesome series. I liked that I could read all of the books in one go. Book 1 is free, Buy the Omnibus if you liked Book 1.
I cant wait for book 5 to be out. This one will blow your mind in many ways. We find out a lot more of Ryan's, I mean James Ryan Mason's past and what all happened to him as a child and what he has to deal with by a 'Cult Alpha' his story is not for the faint of heart, and his visions that he has in his life and what they will mean to his future with the people that changed him for the better. Sorry to say but Amil doesnt make any 'appearances' but Sarah gets a very big surprise in the form of felines and does get happy news about her baby that Amil left her with. Taylor feels pushed away form the one man that saved his life, Ryan, with this sneaky snake of an alpha Nickolai came to Lydia rescue in book #3 and what Nickolai did to Ryan in his childhood and the grandparents that he loved and saved him from the nasty clutches Nick started to brainwash him with. Poor Lydia had one long eventful day after her shifting, loosing her father, Ryans past, but most importantly finding out the real evil old hag her father claimed as an aunt. This book also has Selena torment but found a way to make her mate pay for what he did to her but also to take the role as leader and to find a way to make Lydia pay for what he doesnt have, I really hope they bring that spoiled brat Selena down before any of her old pack looses whats let of the small pack now. Now I have to keep my eye out for book #5 to see what happens.
This was amazing. The storyline in this installment was amazing. You get a huge look into Ryan's past, more information on Lawrence, the growing powers of Lydia, the sweet innocence of Taylor, a little more history on the Tridents, the turning of the tides with the Trident alpha and so much more. The romance and relationship between the mated four are growing in bounds. I could probably go on and on but why....you just need to get the book and read it! Well what are you waiting for?
This one was not as good as previous books. I hated how it turned out about Ryan, and I was greatly annoyed with Selena's point of view as well. I couldn't stand her, and I hated what happened with her.
Other than that I liked this one, but I wish there had been a little bit more to it. I do look forward to reading more in this series though.
I love this series. In fact I love everything by this author! Some great twists and turns in this instalment. Can't wait for the next one (actually, I won't have to - it's queued up on my kindle now!!).