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Werewolves of Montana #4
The Mating Rite
Darius discovers that his mate is not dead after all and he will do anything to have her…
Excerpt (Warning: This is a romance novel containing explicit sex and language. Not intended for anyone under the age of 18)
Excerpt (Warning: This is a romance novel containing explicit sex and language. Not intended for anyone under the age of 18)
384 pages, Paperback
First published May 27, 2014
73 people are currently reading
280 people want to read
About the author
Bonnie Vanak
136 books506 followersBonnie Vanak fell in love with romance novels during childhood. While cleaning a hall closet, she discovered her mother’s cache of paperbacks and started reading. Thus began a passion for romance and a lifelong dislike for housework.
After years of newspaper reporting, Bonnie became a writer for a major international charity. She travels to destitute countries such as Haiti to write about famine, disease and other issues affecting the poor. When the emotional strains of her job demanded a diversion, she turned to her childhood dream of writing romance novels.
She lives in Florida with her husband Frank and two dogs, where she happily writes books amid an ever-growing collection of dust bunnies.
After years of newspaper reporting, Bonnie became a writer for a major international charity. She travels to destitute countries such as Haiti to write about famine, disease and other issues affecting the poor. When the emotional strains of her job demanded a diversion, she turned to her childhood dream of writing romance novels.
She lives in Florida with her husband Frank and two dogs, where she happily writes books amid an ever-growing collection of dust bunnies.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
November 16, 2016
Again with the fat heroine. So far it's the only type of body type author writes about. Not against being big but I would prefer to read about other body shapes too. Hero is a man whore.
July 25, 2018
Darius, second in command of the Mitchell pack has found his mate, Samantha, who he'd thought was dead, and she's searching for guys on an internet dating site. So he arranges a date and goes to Portland to reunite with Sam, but she's not thrilled to see him. In fact, she's pissed that in the ten years since he'd promised to return to her, she hasn't seen him once. Even worse, she knows that he's been whoring it up out in Montana, seeking women in attempt to forget the loss of his mate. This she finds pretty hard to forgive and she's moved on to the point that she's given up being a Lupine. But Darius, having finally found her, isn't about to give up the fight. He plans to seduce her back into his life and show her how great it is to let her Lupine free and run with a pack. But someone is threatening Sam's life, and Sam herself is learning strange new things about herself and who she is and, if she can survive, these things may affect her decision on whether or not to forge a new life with Darius.
So far, this is my favorite of the series. I like that we finally get a heroine who asks the same questions that I do...who balks at the idea of being subjugated by the pack hierarchy and who questions the double standard of mating in the lupine world (it is definitely a double standard that the mating mark goes on the female and makes her unattractive to all other men so she HAS to be celibate, while the male is free and clear to whore it up when he thinks his mate is dead.) Sam was by far the most "woke" of the heroines in this series. For her, the sex and desire to mate with Darius isn't enough, because being with him means being dragged back to a pack and out of the "skin" world where she her hopes and dreams are set. And I like that she doesn't just fall into bed with him until she's absolutely certain that it's HER he wants, not just sex. I liked the angst that came from Sam knowing and seeing that Darius had enjoyed plenty of women in his time away from her. And she wasn't mollified by an "I thought you were dead," even though that's a pretty decent excuse. She continues to be haunted by the idea of being another one of those women. And I did feel like Darius felt a good enough amount of regret for his actions and his attempts to win her back were respectable and more importantly, respectful. He did everything possible to give Sam as much choice as he could and that was certainly refreshing for this series. Even in the end, Darius was ready to sacrifice everything to be with Sam rather than have her be unhappy with the pack, and that was exactly what I was hoping for.
So those were some pretty great positives. This was very nearly a 4-star book, but for 2 things mostly. Why oh why do I have to be subjected to graphic animal sex? I've at least gotten better at spotting it when it starts so I don't have the imagery of shiny, glistening wolf penises and wolf noses being pressed into wolf vulvas. Gah. I get grossed out when my dog licks himself, no way I want to deliberately read about dog-shaped humans having sex. Unsexy. My only other complaint, which is a minor one, is that things in this universe tend to feel contrived...like the author is making up the rules as she writes. Characters have different powers and traits just because they're convenient to the story it seems...like Darius's ability to turn into a German Shepherd just for the ability to eavesdrop or his red-tinted claws that show others he's an alpha (don't remember any other alphas having that...) And similarly with story situations...like a mating rite that requires animal sex and super rough and tough sex that has to be witnessed and is only needed for couples in which one of them has had the mating mark removed. How often does mating mark removal happen if they've got this super structured rite and everyone knows what it entails? Sam had to call on the Silver Wizard to remove hers and I can't imagine people are doing that every day. So yeah..things like that kinda bug me because they start to feel so OTT.
Still, a great addition to this series and it saved it for me. I will continue reading and cross my fingers it stays this good...and that the animal sex stops.
So far, this is my favorite of the series. I like that we finally get a heroine who asks the same questions that I do...who balks at the idea of being subjugated by the pack hierarchy and who questions the double standard of mating in the lupine world (it is definitely a double standard that the mating mark goes on the female and makes her unattractive to all other men so she HAS to be celibate, while the male is free and clear to whore it up when he thinks his mate is dead.) Sam was by far the most "woke" of the heroines in this series. For her, the sex and desire to mate with Darius isn't enough, because being with him means being dragged back to a pack and out of the "skin" world where she her hopes and dreams are set. And I like that she doesn't just fall into bed with him until she's absolutely certain that it's HER he wants, not just sex. I liked the angst that came from Sam knowing and seeing that Darius had enjoyed plenty of women in his time away from her. And she wasn't mollified by an "I thought you were dead," even though that's a pretty decent excuse. She continues to be haunted by the idea of being another one of those women. And I did feel like Darius felt a good enough amount of regret for his actions and his attempts to win her back were respectable and more importantly, respectful. He did everything possible to give Sam as much choice as he could and that was certainly refreshing for this series. Even in the end, Darius was ready to sacrifice everything to be with Sam rather than have her be unhappy with the pack, and that was exactly what I was hoping for.
So those were some pretty great positives. This was very nearly a 4-star book, but for 2 things mostly. Why oh why do I have to be subjected to graphic animal sex? I've at least gotten better at spotting it when it starts so I don't have the imagery of shiny, glistening wolf penises and wolf noses being pressed into wolf vulvas. Gah. I get grossed out when my dog licks himself, no way I want to deliberately read about dog-shaped humans having sex. Unsexy. My only other complaint, which is a minor one, is that things in this universe tend to feel contrived...like the author is making up the rules as she writes. Characters have different powers and traits just because they're convenient to the story it seems...like Darius's ability to turn into a German Shepherd just for the ability to eavesdrop or his red-tinted claws that show others he's an alpha (don't remember any other alphas having that...) And similarly with story situations...like a mating rite that requires animal sex and super rough and tough sex that has to be witnessed and is only needed for couples in which one of them has had the mating mark removed. How often does mating mark removal happen if they've got this super structured rite and everyone knows what it entails? Sam had to call on the Silver Wizard to remove hers and I can't imagine people are doing that every day. So yeah..things like that kinda bug me because they start to feel so OTT.
Still, a great addition to this series and it saved it for me. I will continue reading and cross my fingers it stays this good...and that the animal sex stops.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2015
Still a vital part of the series but...
Note: This is a rewind review. What that means is that I've already read the book to completion, but it's been a few months. In other words, I just remember the main shit. It also means I'll be updating this review when I reread the book with a full review.
***************************************************************
Ok. So I know I have this issue with sex scenes with animals. I don't care if you're trying to make it seem all "natural" and you want to "convey the beauty of nature"-it's gross. Period. In case that wasn't clear, let me repeat that: it's gross! I don't need details on wolves whining while the...never mind.
On the plus side, this story has the same level on intrigue and action as the previous ones in this series. Of course, there's the melancholy as well.
Note: This is a rewind review. What that means is that I've already read the book to completion, but it's been a few months. In other words, I just remember the main shit. It also means I'll be updating this review when I reread the book with a full review.
***************************************************************
Ok. So I know I have this issue with sex scenes with animals. I don't care if you're trying to make it seem all "natural" and you want to "convey the beauty of nature"-it's gross. Period. In case that wasn't clear, let me repeat that: it's gross! I don't need details on wolves whining while the...never mind.
On the plus side, this story has the same level on intrigue and action as the previous ones in this series. Of course, there's the melancholy as well.
June 9, 2014
I have read all of the books in this series, and they just keep getting better and better! The ending on this one had me wanting more! Now I cant wait until the next book comes out! And I can not wait for Aiden's book to come out....ugh...hopefully it will be out this summer?!? (Fingers Crossed)
February 26, 2015
my least favorite of the series. there is a lot going on in this book and I didn't really care for the H/h.
I hope Adian's book is out soon. I really want to read his story
I hope Adian's book is out soon. I really want to read his story
May 19, 2014
loved it can't wait for the next story
November 1, 2018
Great read
I have to find the first book and read them all. I have just read one of the best books I have ever written. Thanks for fun books to read
I have to find the first book and read them all. I have just read one of the best books I have ever written. Thanks for fun books to read
January 5, 2019
Disappointed. That "rite" was less passionate than all the talk leading up to it made me believe it was.
August 16, 2014
The Werewolves of Montana series has featured numerous heroes, and none have been more desirable than the enticing shifter in THE MATING RITE. There is a particular woman who should be his mate, but circumstances sadly keep them apart for many unfulfilled years. When they meet up again, hearts will be on the line as decisions must be made that will greatly influence their futures. Bonnie Vanak has created a unique world for her supernatural beings, and the fourth book in the series takes readers on a journey where dreams may one day come true. THE MATING RITE lustily portrays a creative take on Lupine love.
Although werewolf Darius Bryant thought Samantha Evers would eventually be his mate, he knew the chaste female was not yet ready to be anything more than a good friend. Many happy times were shared as they helped each other to make a better life, drawing them ever closer. Neither of their parents wanted them to be together, but the couple hoped the minds of their relatives would change by the time it came for them to be mated. An incident changes both of their lives in an instant, and Darius comes to believe Samantha has died, leaving him heartbroken for almost a decade.
When it became apparent that Darius was not coming to get her as he vowed, Samantha chose to live her life as a human and has forsaken the ways of the Lupine. A meeting between the two makes her realize the feelings she had for him have not lessened, yet huge concerns about the uncontrolled sexual behavior of wolves keeps her from returning with him to his pack. As Darius tries to gain Samantha’s trust once more and convince her a mating rite would link them for life, an adversary threatens her, making him more determined to bond with her.
Passionate and protective are the two words that come to mind whenever I think about The Werewolves of Montana series. Bonnie Vanak definitely makes her shifter heroes sexually appealing, and the alpha tendencies plus compassionate nature of Darius made him doubly tempting. Though he can become rather feral when desire is at its highest, this just proves how strong their animal side can become. Samantha has gone through lots of traumatic situations in her life, so I could forgive her for being so uncertain at times. I really liked how she was physically described with realistically genuine features, too. When these two surrender control over their reactions and let eager craving for the other takeover, the scene turns heatedly erotic. Readers will be fanning themselves frequently because of all the vivid descriptions.
The author gives her werewolf characters several distinctive traits which make them even more interesting and certainly different from your typical shifter of this species. There is also much humor in the novel, and I enjoyed seeing the camaraderie of those who belong to the pack. A little mystery is tossed in from time to time, making for a fascinating turn of events when all is revealed. Several hints about characters in upcoming books make their stories highly anticipated. Bonnie Vanak makes the books in her Werewolves of Montana series erotically steamy, and THE MATING RITE is at the top of the list.
Sensual Reads review - 4.5 Stars
Although werewolf Darius Bryant thought Samantha Evers would eventually be his mate, he knew the chaste female was not yet ready to be anything more than a good friend. Many happy times were shared as they helped each other to make a better life, drawing them ever closer. Neither of their parents wanted them to be together, but the couple hoped the minds of their relatives would change by the time it came for them to be mated. An incident changes both of their lives in an instant, and Darius comes to believe Samantha has died, leaving him heartbroken for almost a decade.
When it became apparent that Darius was not coming to get her as he vowed, Samantha chose to live her life as a human and has forsaken the ways of the Lupine. A meeting between the two makes her realize the feelings she had for him have not lessened, yet huge concerns about the uncontrolled sexual behavior of wolves keeps her from returning with him to his pack. As Darius tries to gain Samantha’s trust once more and convince her a mating rite would link them for life, an adversary threatens her, making him more determined to bond with her.
Passionate and protective are the two words that come to mind whenever I think about The Werewolves of Montana series. Bonnie Vanak definitely makes her shifter heroes sexually appealing, and the alpha tendencies plus compassionate nature of Darius made him doubly tempting. Though he can become rather feral when desire is at its highest, this just proves how strong their animal side can become. Samantha has gone through lots of traumatic situations in her life, so I could forgive her for being so uncertain at times. I really liked how she was physically described with realistically genuine features, too. When these two surrender control over their reactions and let eager craving for the other takeover, the scene turns heatedly erotic. Readers will be fanning themselves frequently because of all the vivid descriptions.
The author gives her werewolf characters several distinctive traits which make them even more interesting and certainly different from your typical shifter of this species. There is also much humor in the novel, and I enjoyed seeing the camaraderie of those who belong to the pack. A little mystery is tossed in from time to time, making for a fascinating turn of events when all is revealed. Several hints about characters in upcoming books make their stories highly anticipated. Bonnie Vanak makes the books in her Werewolves of Montana series erotically steamy, and THE MATING RITE is at the top of the list.
Sensual Reads review - 4.5 Stars
December 2, 2014
It was an ok story, I would have given higher points if it just had not felt so disjointed. I am not going to give a 1 or a 2, because it still had some chapters in it that were done well. I'm not going to go into why I think it was disjointed someone already did. Anyway, I have read her other books and thought they were pretty good.
February 23, 2017
I love Bonnie Vanak's Werewolves of Montana novels and minis. Hot Shape-Shifter men and the women they will do anything for. True Love, Fate and soul mates. Amazing story lines and characters. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.
September 23, 2014
amazing story
January 10, 2015
Okay. Definitely erotic more sexual than anything.
December 12, 2016
Like the series....can't wait for more!!!!
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews