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Holland Brothers #2
Determined Mate
Jason Matthew's is a broken man. He's lived through hell and barely come out the other side. All he can thing about is getting to his best friend, Brian, after that he has no idea. Jason's scared out of his mind when he's met by not only Brian but two large men as well, he does the only thing he can think to do. He tries to run. One of the men, though, turns out to be his mate. A mate he is in no condition to have or want, a mate that won't allow him to flee. Alex Holland is forced to stand by and watch as Jason is taken to the safest place they know, too scared to be around him. He knows something bad has happened to Jason and he's going to need every ounce of his Alpha control to give his mate the time he needs to heal and start living again.
190 pages, Paperback
First published February 19, 2011
39 people are currently reading
504 people want to read
About the author
Toni Griffin
47 books511 followersToni Griffin lives in Darwin, the smallest of Australia’s capital cities. Born and raised in the state she’s a Territorian through and through. Growing up Toni hated English with a passion (as her editors can probably attest to) and found her strength lies with numbers.
Now, though, she loves escaping to the worlds she creates and hopes to continue to do so for many years to come. She’s a single mother of one and works full time. When she’s not writing you can just about guarantee that she will be reading one of the many MM authors she loves.
Feel free to drop her a line at info@tonigriffin.net anytime.
Now, though, she loves escaping to the worlds she creates and hopes to continue to do so for many years to come. She’s a single mother of one and works full time. When she’s not writing you can just about guarantee that she will be reading one of the many MM authors she loves.
Feel free to drop her a line at info@tonigriffin.net anytime.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
May 8, 2016
It irritates me the longer I read M/M romance at the tendency for the more "macho" (for lack of a better word) hero to always top. Nothing is hotter to me than flip-fucking and/or to have the less "macho" hero do the fucking. This is a perfect example. Alpha werewolf fucking his mate. But, I suspended disbelief and enjoyed the quick ride. Hurt/heal/comfort is my kryptonite.
October 3, 2011
I really dislike it when authors use sexual assault as a 'plot device' in the same vein as 'misplaced note' and 'overheard conversation'.
Either give the act and the victim the respect they deserve, or leave it alone.
Either give the act and the victim the respect they deserve, or leave it alone.
May 7, 2016
I enjoyed reading the first of the series, Unexpected Mate, enough to pick up Alex's story.
Alex Holland is the Alpha of the Leyburn shifter pack so when his brother's mate Brian's best friend, Jason Matthews, calls and asks to come to Brian's home he's granted sanctuary. From the moment Alex hears Jason's voice he's almost sure Jason is his mate. When Jason shows up at the house, his senses are confirmed. Alex is overjoyed at the sexy, beautiful man, but quickly notices something wrong: mainly Jason freaking out entirely upon seeing Alex and his brother.
Jason's been kicked out of his pack, and come to his best friend Brian for comfort while he heals. However, instead of being happy to have found his fated mate, Jason is horrified. Having just been through a traumatic experience only a couple of weeks before, he is now shattered and cannot stand to be around big men. Which is unfortunate being that all the Holland men are super-huge.
But Alex is patient and works with Brian to make Jason as comfortable as possible, giving Jason the time to heal so Alex may finally claim his mate.
Though I really enjoyed the hurt/comfort aspect of the story, unfortunately that enjoyment was dampened by the author using the plot device of teasing the "traumatic event" that has hurt one of the main characters so deeply, but not letting the reader know what the event was for more than half the story.
Now, I will admit this is a personal pet peeve of mine and not shared by everyone. I just hate it when that's done, I mean it drives me absolutely nuts! And, because it's a trigger situation (and because I hate it) I will post it as a spoiler. So don't click on the link unless you really want it spoiled.
I enjoyed Dominic McCartney's narration of the story, his tone and character voices were good and overall he made listening to the story fun.
In the end I enjoyed the story enough to want to pick up the next book in the series, Protective Mate and see how it goes.
November 8, 2015
I read all 4 books in this series in 1 day. I needed me some serious fluffiness. And I got it!
The writing in this one was way worse than the first book. We have MORE throbbing cocks, MINE MINE MINE and of course, there is healing from rape through dick! Is there any other way?
Why the 3 stars? I cannot help it….. I enjoyed it. If you go into this expecting exactly what you get, you can’t go wrong!
The writing in this one was way worse than the first book. We have MORE throbbing cocks, MINE MINE MINE and of course, there is healing from rape through dick! Is there any other way?
Why the 3 stars? I cannot help it….. I enjoyed it. If you go into this expecting exactly what you get, you can’t go wrong!
May 15, 2012
This is my least favorite of the series. Honestly, I think I hated it.
I couldn't really get into this one and I really have no idea why. I mean, I liked it but it didn't pull me in at all. I struggled through each chapter even with how short this story was.
Jason was cute and Alex was sexy but I didn't feel a connection between them. Then again, with these types of stories there generally isn't any connection but I at least feel something usually but not with this one.
I felt like their conflict was a bit underwhelming. The fact that Jason is so broken is part of that conflict (he was raped) yet he never dealt with that and had no problems with having boat loads of sex with Alex. Through this whole story I had question after question. Some about how Jason couldn't telepathically speak to Alex when he was physically paralyzed not mentally; how who Jason was running from was able to find him even though where he used to live was days away and he gave no hint at where he was going. Even for this one, I could not suspend belief unfortunately.
Okay, I wouldn't say I hated it but maybe I just wasn't in the mood for it? It was too slow in the beginning then it was way too rushed in the end. I felt like everything was being repeated over and over. It was very hard for me to enjoy it especially since there was so much sex and by the time I was finished with the story all I could feel was relief it was over. :-/
I'd like to say I can't recommend this book but I do think you should read it if you want to read the rest of the series which I am enjoying the series as a whole. I do like this couple better in the next few books.
I couldn't really get into this one and I really have no idea why. I mean, I liked it but it didn't pull me in at all. I struggled through each chapter even with how short this story was.
Jason was cute and Alex was sexy but I didn't feel a connection between them. Then again, with these types of stories there generally isn't any connection but I at least feel something usually but not with this one.
I felt like their conflict was a bit underwhelming. The fact that Jason is so broken is part of that conflict (he was raped) yet he never dealt with that and had no problems with having boat loads of sex with Alex. Through this whole story I had question after question. Some about how Jason couldn't telepathically speak to Alex when he was physically paralyzed not mentally; how who Jason was running from was able to find him even though where he used to live was days away and he gave no hint at where he was going. Even for this one, I could not suspend belief unfortunately.
Okay, I wouldn't say I hated it but maybe I just wasn't in the mood for it? It was too slow in the beginning then it was way too rushed in the end. I felt like everything was being repeated over and over. It was very hard for me to enjoy it especially since there was so much sex and by the time I was finished with the story all I could feel was relief it was over. :-/
I'd like to say I can't recommend this book but I do think you should read it if you want to read the rest of the series which I am enjoying the series as a whole. I do like this couple better in the next few books.
July 31, 2014
After second reading...
I am re-reading this book so that I can read book 4 in the series (apparently its much better than the earlier books) & I hate reading a series out of sequence, but I must admit that my opinion of the books isn't improving with closer scrutiny ... I do find the whole chick with a dick plot line a bit eye-roll-inducing & can I just say that in my 40+ years as an Australian I have never seen an alpha male drink iced tea; heard a barbecue being referred to as a 'grill'; and been in a rural home with a basement ... just sayin'.
Original review...
This book was slightly better than Unexpected Mate but it was still chock-full of cliches and formulaic writing. At $5.00 a book I don't think I will bother with the rest of the series unless the subsequent books get fantastic reviews saying that the author has mastered her craft & improved on the shallow, uninspiring, regurgitated pap that the first two books in the series consist of. If the author wants to improve her work, then I would suggest she try to inject some originality into her plot lines and for God's sake, sit down with a gay man and find out what they can do in the bedroom because it sure as shit consists of more than head jobs and anal sex *eye roll*.
I am re-reading this book so that I can read book 4 in the series (apparently its much better than the earlier books) & I hate reading a series out of sequence, but I must admit that my opinion of the books isn't improving with closer scrutiny ... I do find the whole chick with a dick plot line a bit eye-roll-inducing & can I just say that in my 40+ years as an Australian I have never seen an alpha male drink iced tea; heard a barbecue being referred to as a 'grill'; and been in a rural home with a basement ... just sayin'.
Original review...
This book was slightly better than Unexpected Mate but it was still chock-full of cliches and formulaic writing. At $5.00 a book I don't think I will bother with the rest of the series unless the subsequent books get fantastic reviews saying that the author has mastered her craft & improved on the shallow, uninspiring, regurgitated pap that the first two books in the series consist of. If the author wants to improve her work, then I would suggest she try to inject some originality into her plot lines and for God's sake, sit down with a gay man and find out what they can do in the bedroom because it sure as shit consists of more than head jobs and anal sex *eye roll*.
October 27, 2011
In short. Another shifter story with either a disguised female* with a d*ck or a little boy. I'm undecided. Or maybe a little girl. Which makes our male character (Alex, since Jason is NOT male) a very big pervert.
Realism sacrificed in favor of unnecessary drama.
Plot, we all know the plot. Nothing new here so no real spoilers below.
I don't get how many readers can like this book so much. I like traditional shifter stories for relaxing too. But I try to find something decently written. With both male characters at least (I like effeminate characters just as much as I like masculine. But there is a difference between effeminate male and a disguised female in man's body). And realism is very important. Just because it is fantasy/paranormal doesn't mean it can't be realistic.
In long. :)
Plot. Jason needs help and he runs to his best friend Brian. He is in pretty similar situation like Brian was just a few weeks back. He didn't help him then, his best friend (unless there was something in the first book, as I don't remember it).
I'm interested how tattoo salon survives in a town with less than 10 000 habitants.
Apparently in shifter world after mating you cannot even get hugs from other people, even your best friend as the wolf is jealous.
I'm reading now and wondering if I actually read this before. It feels a little too familiar, but you can never know with shifter books, they are so alike it's easy to mistake one for another.
As someone already reviewed slow (or the joke of slow) is 3 days :D. It feels ridiculous since there was so much emphasis on slow and bam. It doesn't even take a day till first kiss, initiated by Jason nonetheless. Forget the 3 days, it's one day. It could be forgiven since their both shifters and both feel the pull because of the mate thing but still... Show some restrain. Restrain can be sexy too.
R*pe.Oh yeah, you should never go to police if you don't know the r*pists name, address, all other information police is supposed to find out. Don't dare to come with just a description. Like how stupid is what? I could understand not going to police, there are plenty of reasons to not want to after r*pe but not something like this. There are investigations for figuring out who was the attacker, they might be unsuccessful but he might be caught later, attack another victim etc.
And it seems that a week or two after a brutal r*pe and beating is plenty of time to recover. (It fails badly on showing recovery). A scene in the shower when they stop is a poor excuse of trying to make it realistic (a few similar scenes too). I read quite a few books dealing with traumatized heroes and this is probably the worst ever.
Jason feels either a woman or a boy (child). And Alex talks with him as if he were a child too. He tells what not to do, why and then still adds "I don't want to see you hurt". If you take a guy for a ride on a bike just tell him that exhaust pipe gets hot so don't touch it - don't go over the top. Next you'll tell him to use the knife carefully while eating, since it is sharp and I don't want to see you hurt... They're both supposed to be adults.
Can you imagine an adult snuggling in on another adults lap and refusing to move since he is "comfy". I can imagine tender moments fine, but this is beyond me :D.
And what kind of shifters are they? Don't they have no sense of smell, sharp reflexes or anything? I can believe in a human managing to drug one shifter once because of the surprise element but twice? The same man, the same shifter? Seriously? And how the drug even works? It's said that it's hard to drug a shifter and it's not like attacker knew that he is a shifter so how come he managed to have enough dose to drug him? Shouldn't it be lethal or near lethal dose for a human?
Apparently, everybody is stupid except Jason (and having in mind that he can be very stupid it is a little confusing). Only he noticed the tension between Rick and Jake in first time seeing them together. While others never noticed anything even when Rick can't take his eyes from Jake. It is possible for SOME to be oblivious to those around him, but for everybody? And the alpha shouldn't notice these things?
Seems like shifters are big exhibitionists - it's ok to make out/hump each other etc in front of your friends/brothers/parents. If there were some world development it could be forgiven, if it were shown that it is normal and explained why (tradition or exhibitionism is genetics or whatever). Now it just looks very strange.
The timing. I just can't. Our poor Jason is saved the moment before he is raped. The exact moment, like a few more seconds and it would have been too late. Come on, don't throw away realism in favor of more and more drama. Either have him saved more than a few seconds before the rape part or be late but not at the critical point. Like, what are the chances?
I think I'm giving up on these series unless there will be one with plot which really really interests me.
-----
*Disguised female is when you can change the male name to female and all he>she, him>her and the character feels completely unchanged, nothing wrong or unusual with HER. Only some parts of the plot might suffer if a book deals with homophobia, hate crimes, coming out etc.
Effeminate male is when doing all the changes it feels unnatural, wrong. It doesn't matter if the guy does his nails, uses make up or even wears a skirt. He still has male characteristics since he IS male.
Realism sacrificed in favor of unnecessary drama.
Plot, we all know the plot. Nothing new here so no real spoilers below.
I don't get how many readers can like this book so much. I like traditional shifter stories for relaxing too. But I try to find something decently written. With both male characters at least (I like effeminate characters just as much as I like masculine. But there is a difference between effeminate male and a disguised female in man's body). And realism is very important. Just because it is fantasy/paranormal doesn't mean it can't be realistic.
In long. :)
Plot. Jason needs help and he runs to his best friend Brian. He is in pretty similar situation like Brian was just a few weeks back. He didn't help him then, his best friend (unless there was something in the first book, as I don't remember it).
I'm interested how tattoo salon survives in a town with less than 10 000 habitants.
Apparently in shifter world after mating you cannot even get hugs from other people, even your best friend as the wolf is jealous.
I'm reading now and wondering if I actually read this before. It feels a little too familiar, but you can never know with shifter books, they are so alike it's easy to mistake one for another.
As someone already reviewed slow (or the joke of slow) is 3 days :D. It feels ridiculous since there was so much emphasis on slow and bam. It doesn't even take a day till first kiss, initiated by Jason nonetheless. Forget the 3 days, it's one day. It could be forgiven since their both shifters and both feel the pull because of the mate thing but still... Show some restrain. Restrain can be sexy too.
R*pe.Oh yeah, you should never go to police if you don't know the r*pists name, address, all other information police is supposed to find out. Don't dare to come with just a description. Like how stupid is what? I could understand not going to police, there are plenty of reasons to not want to after r*pe but not something like this. There are investigations for figuring out who was the attacker, they might be unsuccessful but he might be caught later, attack another victim etc.
And it seems that a week or two after a brutal r*pe and beating is plenty of time to recover. (It fails badly on showing recovery). A scene in the shower when they stop is a poor excuse of trying to make it realistic (a few similar scenes too). I read quite a few books dealing with traumatized heroes and this is probably the worst ever.
Jason feels either a woman or a boy (child). And Alex talks with him as if he were a child too. He tells what not to do, why and then still adds "I don't want to see you hurt". If you take a guy for a ride on a bike just tell him that exhaust pipe gets hot so don't touch it - don't go over the top. Next you'll tell him to use the knife carefully while eating, since it is sharp and I don't want to see you hurt... They're both supposed to be adults.
Can you imagine an adult snuggling in on another adults lap and refusing to move since he is "comfy". I can imagine tender moments fine, but this is beyond me :D.
And what kind of shifters are they? Don't they have no sense of smell, sharp reflexes or anything? I can believe in a human managing to drug one shifter once because of the surprise element but twice? The same man, the same shifter? Seriously? And how the drug even works? It's said that it's hard to drug a shifter and it's not like attacker knew that he is a shifter so how come he managed to have enough dose to drug him? Shouldn't it be lethal or near lethal dose for a human?
Apparently, everybody is stupid except Jason (and having in mind that he can be very stupid it is a little confusing). Only he noticed the tension between Rick and Jake in first time seeing them together. While others never noticed anything even when Rick can't take his eyes from Jake. It is possible for SOME to be oblivious to those around him, but for everybody? And the alpha shouldn't notice these things?
Seems like shifters are big exhibitionists - it's ok to make out/hump each other etc in front of your friends/brothers/parents. If there were some world development it could be forgiven, if it were shown that it is normal and explained why (tradition or exhibitionism is genetics or whatever). Now it just looks very strange.
The timing. I just can't. Our poor Jason is saved the moment before he is raped. The exact moment, like a few more seconds and it would have been too late. Come on, don't throw away realism in favor of more and more drama. Either have him saved more than a few seconds before the rape part or be late but not at the critical point. Like, what are the chances?
I think I'm giving up on these series unless there will be one with plot which really really interests me.
-----
*Disguised female is when you can change the male name to female and all he>she, him>her and the character feels completely unchanged, nothing wrong or unusual with HER. Only some parts of the plot might suffer if a book deals with homophobia, hate crimes, coming out etc.
Effeminate male is when doing all the changes it feels unnatural, wrong. It doesn't matter if the guy does his nails, uses make up or even wears a skirt. He still has male characteristics since he IS male.
July 13, 2024
Damn, this one was sad asf!
Jason and Brian had the worst parents ever!!! How could you kick out your kid for being gay especially after he was just raped.😡💔
The support Jason received from the family melted my heart. Brian was such a good friend, and Alex was the perfect mate.
I hated being in Hank's head. I hope he dies in prison.
Jason and Brian had the worst parents ever!!! How could you kick out your kid for being gay especially after he was just raped.😡💔
The support Jason received from the family melted my heart. Brian was such a good friend, and Alex was the perfect mate.
I hated being in Hank's head. I hope he dies in prison.
May 17, 2022
In a lot of ways this book was just too short for the kind of trauma that Jason was dealing with. Sure he's drawn to Alex as his mate, but his reactions upon first meeting the bigger man were so strong the rest of the story fell a little flat for me as I didn't really get to see with Jason deal with those feelings. Alex was patient with him and was willing to stand by and wait. But, we knew time was passing because we were told time had passed. We didn't really get to experience Jason dealing with the trauma and choosing a different way.
This series is one of those shifter series that's like wafer cookie. It's dessert so you're expecting something sweet and that it will satisfy that sugar craving for you. But then it's such a thin wispy thing that while you got a little hit of what you wanted, you still were left wanting more.
This series is one of those shifter series that's like wafer cookie. It's dessert so you're expecting something sweet and that it will satisfy that sugar craving for you. But then it's such a thin wispy thing that while you got a little hit of what you wanted, you still were left wanting more.
November 18, 2013
Eh. I was really looking forward to this after Marcus and Brian's story. Jason Matthews is Brian's best friend. Jason can't stand the pack he's always been in after Brian was kicked out for being gay, so he decides to call up his Brian to see if he can visit for a bit. Once that plan went into motion, he decided to go out. Well that's when things went to shit.
Jason after that dreadful day was so believable. It made my heart hurt and I was in tears, just by how he was acting. I didn't even know how bad he was, until he told Brian. Yes, I would have liked to have had him talk about it sooner (especially with Alex), but I get trying to block it out and not wanting to remember/talk about it.
Alex, the Alpha of the new pack Brian is in, realizes that Jason is his mate. He freaking TACKLES him. Could not he see how hurt Jason was? Alex really pissed me off. Then, Jason decides to stay with Alex's parents to get away from all the big men that live with Brian. He was there for what? 10 minutes? before Alex rallies the troops and heads off to his parents house. Ummm...he went there to get away. Did I mention that Alex pissed me off? He redeemed himself, but still the beginning Alex was not a welcome one.
The climax, could have been more.
Can I just say that Marcus pissed me off in the beginning too? Growling at Jason because Brian was hugging him while he cried. Give me a break. Possessiveness is one thing, but being an inconsiderate bastard is an entirely different thing. Oh, I am sorry, best friend of 20 years, my mate is possessive and jealous and won't let me comfort you while you cry your eyes out after being violently attacked and sexually assaulted. Screw you, Marcus!
Overall, I liked it :)
Jason after that dreadful day was so believable. It made my heart hurt and I was in tears, just by how he was acting. I didn't even know how bad he was, until he told Brian. Yes, I would have liked to have had him talk about it sooner (especially with Alex), but I get trying to block it out and not wanting to remember/talk about it.
Alex, the Alpha of the new pack Brian is in, realizes that Jason is his mate. He freaking TACKLES him. Could not he see how hurt Jason was? Alex really pissed me off. Then, Jason decides to stay with Alex's parents to get away from all the big men that live with Brian. He was there for what? 10 minutes? before Alex rallies the troops and heads off to his parents house. Ummm...he went there to get away. Did I mention that Alex pissed me off? He redeemed himself, but still the beginning Alex was not a welcome one.
The climax, could have been more.
Can I just say that Marcus pissed me off in the beginning too? Growling at Jason because Brian was hugging him while he cried. Give me a break. Possessiveness is one thing, but being an inconsiderate bastard is an entirely different thing. Oh, I am sorry, best friend of 20 years, my mate is possessive and jealous and won't let me comfort you while you cry your eyes out after being violently attacked and sexually assaulted. Screw you, Marcus!
Overall, I liked it :)
July 13, 2021
Determined Mate
By Toni Griffin
Jason misses his best friend and decides to take Brian up on his offer to relocate and become a part of his new pack. The night before he leaves he checks out a new gay bar for one last fling, but his night out doesn't go as planned and he's attacked. He rushes to safety at Brian's side only to find his fated mate is Brian's new pack Alpha and brother-in-law, Alex. A mate is the last thing he can handle right now, especially one as big as his attacker.
This was a big disappointment. Alex was seriously impatient when it came to his new mate and the author tried to make it seem like he was taking things slow, but his actions said otherwise. Suddenly after Jason finally tells Brian what happened about 1/2 way through the book he becomes a sex fiend wanting it all the time. After what happened to him?! That's never happening. Think I'll pass on anymore in the series.
The book is in both Jason and Alex's POV.
Triggers:
By Toni Griffin
Jason misses his best friend and decides to take Brian up on his offer to relocate and become a part of his new pack. The night before he leaves he checks out a new gay bar for one last fling, but his night out doesn't go as planned and he's attacked. He rushes to safety at Brian's side only to find his fated mate is Brian's new pack Alpha and brother-in-law, Alex. A mate is the last thing he can handle right now, especially one as big as his attacker.
This was a big disappointment. Alex was seriously impatient when it came to his new mate and the author tried to make it seem like he was taking things slow, but his actions said otherwise. Suddenly after Jason finally tells Brian what happened about 1/2 way through the book he becomes a sex fiend wanting it all the time. After what happened to him?! That's never happening. Think I'll pass on anymore in the series.
The book is in both Jason and Alex's POV.
Triggers:
December 4, 2013
What a disappointment. The first book wasn't without its flaws but I had too many problems with this book.
I can understand the concept of fated mates but I had problem with the use of term of endearments so soon after meeting. I really hate the term 'sweetheart'. And then you'd think the main couple couldn't possibly have sex after one of the men had such a traumatic experience a mere week ago. Although I would have been interested to read about the whole .
I just didn't buy the concept of this book and I found myself skimming a lot of it.
I'm not interested in continuing this series. Oh well, we can't love them all.
I can understand the concept of fated mates but I had problem with the use of term of endearments so soon after meeting. I really hate the term 'sweetheart'. And then you'd think the main couple couldn't possibly have sex after one of the men had such a traumatic experience a mere week ago. Although I would have been interested to read about the whole .
I just didn't buy the concept of this book and I found myself skimming a lot of it.
I'm not interested in continuing this series. Oh well, we can't love them all.
August 3, 2017
Determined Mate (Holland Brothers, #2) by Toni Griffin
Enjoyable fast read, part of the Holland Brothers series. Best to read in order.
I am really enjoying Toni Griffin's writing.
Enjoyable fast read, part of the Holland Brothers series. Best to read in order.
I am really enjoying Toni Griffin's writing.
February 20, 2011
3.5 stars
While the instant love, you're my mate theme is still present, but story wise, this one is better than the first book.
What I like
+ There is a relationship building -- Jason has been through hell and he cannot easily accept as simple as touch from other person. So, even if Alex is the Alpha of the pack, and he's possessive (which is a common thing in this genre, of course), but the love making doesn't happen until half the story has passed ... showing how Alex actually takes time to wait until Jason is ready. I find that as sweet and thoughtful.
+ I find the close friendship of Brian and Jason as sweet as well
+ There is this intense and intriguing tidbits of scenes, involving Alex's brother, Rick, and the Alpha's second, Jake, which actually kind of take the focus for awhile and making my heart beats faster for I think there will be a good story behind it *grin*
What I dislike
+ The simplicity of mate concept. You're my mate, so yeah, you're mine ... it's just too easy. I know, I know, it's common, but darn, it will be nice if the mates really must go through some huge trouble before accepting their fate, you know?
+ Again, the overused terms of endearment. THOUGH, duly noted, this time I can accept the term (this one uses "sweetheart" a LOT, while in the first book, it used "baby", which annoys me to the end of the Earth)
+ The last chapter, which happens after the climax, sort of downplays the climax itself. I kind of want to see the aftermath of what happens, rather than just moving fast forward three months later, where everything seems good.
While the instant love, you're my mate theme is still present, but story wise, this one is better than the first book.
What I like
+ There is a relationship building -- Jason has been through hell and he cannot easily accept as simple as touch from other person. So, even if Alex is the Alpha of the pack, and he's possessive (which is a common thing in this genre, of course), but the love making doesn't happen until half the story has passed ... showing how Alex actually takes time to wait until Jason is ready. I find that as sweet and thoughtful.
+ I find the close friendship of Brian and Jason as sweet as well
+ There is this intense and intriguing tidbits of scenes, involving Alex's brother, Rick, and the Alpha's second, Jake, which actually kind of take the focus for awhile and making my heart beats faster for I think there will be a good story behind it *grin*
What I dislike
+ The simplicity of mate concept. You're my mate, so yeah, you're mine ... it's just too easy. I know, I know, it's common, but darn, it will be nice if the mates really must go through some huge trouble before accepting their fate, you know?
+ Again, the overused terms of endearment. THOUGH, duly noted, this time I can accept the term (this one uses "sweetheart" a LOT, while in the first book, it used "baby", which annoys me to the end of the Earth)
+ The last chapter, which happens after the climax, sort of downplays the climax itself. I kind of want to see the aftermath of what happens, rather than just moving fast forward three months later, where everything seems good.
June 15, 2014
Determination can be a key factor in many things, one of them the achievement of recovering from a traumatic event. And Jason has definitely been traumatized, enough to be running into the arms of his best friend, hoping the man can help him. Not even meeting his mate Alex, who is the alpha of Brian’s new pack, can bring Jason out of his shell. At least not initially.
Jason is not normally this scared of everything and everyone, and he hates it. But his body’s reaction to what has happened is hard to suppress, and the fact Brian lives with four huge men, the Holland brothers, does not help in the least. Jason happily accepts the offer of staying with the men’s parents at first, and his road to recovery is slow, but his determination to make it helps a lot. The bastard who did this to him cannot be allowed to win!
Alex is overjoyed when he finally meets his mate, and can hardly control the need to take him into his arms. But he has no choice. Staying away is the hardest thing he has ever done, but it shows what a great guy he is. With loads of patience and reassuring Jason over and over, he makes slow inroads into Jason’s resistance, and I loved how thoughtful he was. Not the easiest thing to do for a powerful alpha, but he pulls it off. Kudos to him!
If you like stories about traumatized men who have to find a way to recover and reclaim their lives as their own, if you enjoy reading about strong alphas who manage to control their instincts and show their vulnerable side to the man they love, and if you’re looking for a read that is as heartbreaking as it is hot, then you will probably like this novella.
Jason is not normally this scared of everything and everyone, and he hates it. But his body’s reaction to what has happened is hard to suppress, and the fact Brian lives with four huge men, the Holland brothers, does not help in the least. Jason happily accepts the offer of staying with the men’s parents at first, and his road to recovery is slow, but his determination to make it helps a lot. The bastard who did this to him cannot be allowed to win!
Alex is overjoyed when he finally meets his mate, and can hardly control the need to take him into his arms. But he has no choice. Staying away is the hardest thing he has ever done, but it shows what a great guy he is. With loads of patience and reassuring Jason over and over, he makes slow inroads into Jason’s resistance, and I loved how thoughtful he was. Not the easiest thing to do for a powerful alpha, but he pulls it off. Kudos to him!
If you like stories about traumatized men who have to find a way to recover and reclaim their lives as their own, if you enjoy reading about strong alphas who manage to control their instincts and show their vulnerable side to the man they love, and if you’re looking for a read that is as heartbreaking as it is hot, then you will probably like this novella.
April 1, 2016
http://bianchianita1971.blogspot.it/2...
Che Alex fosse un Alpha e un uomo meraviglioso lo avevo già intuito nel primo romanzo della serie: nel libro dedicato a lui e al suo compagno ne ho avuta la conferma!
Jason arriva a Leyburn ferito nel corpo e nell'anima da una violenza devastante; tutto ciò che desidera è ricongiungersi con il suo migliore amico e trovare un rifugio sicuro. Troverà molto di più quando poserà gli occhi sul bellissimo Alpha della città, Alex. Ma il capobranco dovrà metterci tutto il suo amore, la sua dolcezza e la sua pazienza per far si che il suo compagno esca dal guscio di terrore che lo avvolge e si fidi di lui.
Una storia per certi aspetti diversa dalla prima della serie: la vicenda è più drammatica e i due dovranno affrontare prove durissime per raggiungere la serenità. Ho amato molto la meravigliosa famiglia Holland e il supporto incondizionato che danno alla nuova coppia. Tutti i fratelli di Alex sono degli elementi mooolto interessanti e, a questo proposito, promettono molto bene i capitoli dedicati a loro!
Che Alex fosse un Alpha e un uomo meraviglioso lo avevo già intuito nel primo romanzo della serie: nel libro dedicato a lui e al suo compagno ne ho avuta la conferma!
Jason arriva a Leyburn ferito nel corpo e nell'anima da una violenza devastante; tutto ciò che desidera è ricongiungersi con il suo migliore amico e trovare un rifugio sicuro. Troverà molto di più quando poserà gli occhi sul bellissimo Alpha della città, Alex. Ma il capobranco dovrà metterci tutto il suo amore, la sua dolcezza e la sua pazienza per far si che il suo compagno esca dal guscio di terrore che lo avvolge e si fidi di lui.
Una storia per certi aspetti diversa dalla prima della serie: la vicenda è più drammatica e i due dovranno affrontare prove durissime per raggiungere la serenità. Ho amato molto la meravigliosa famiglia Holland e il supporto incondizionato che danno alla nuova coppia. Tutti i fratelli di Alex sono degli elementi mooolto interessanti e, a questo proposito, promettono molto bene i capitoli dedicati a loro!
April 1, 2016
3 STELLINE E MEZZA!
Qui la mia recensione:
http://mmedintorni.blogspot.it/2016/0...
Qui la mia recensione:
http://mmedintorni.blogspot.it/2016/0...
January 5, 2023
RECENSIONE A CURA DI SLANIF
Jason Matthews sta scappando da un fatto traumatico e tragico successo una settimana prima nel suo vecchio Branco e l’unica idea che gli è venuta per cercare di guarire è di trovare rifugio dal suo migliore amico Brian, che è fuggito a sua volta dal loro vecchio Branco e che ha trovato l’amore in Marcus, il suo Compagno Predestinato.
Jason non ha un’idea precisa di ciò che farà, ma sa che per guarire avrà bisogno di tutto il supporto possibile e Brian è l’unica persona al mondo di cui si fidi, ormai.
Peccato che arrivare nella nuova casa dell’amico finisca solo per destabilizzarlo ancora di più quando Alex Holland, l’Alfa del nuovo Branco di Brian, altri non è che il suo Compagno Predestinato. Jason ne vorrebbe essere felice, ma Alex è gigantesco e lui ferito nel profondo, quindi rifugge il legame, troppo spaventato per gioire di quello che ha sperato di ottenere da tutta una vita…
Continua sul nostro blog!
Jason Matthews sta scappando da un fatto traumatico e tragico successo una settimana prima nel suo vecchio Branco e l’unica idea che gli è venuta per cercare di guarire è di trovare rifugio dal suo migliore amico Brian, che è fuggito a sua volta dal loro vecchio Branco e che ha trovato l’amore in Marcus, il suo Compagno Predestinato.
Jason non ha un’idea precisa di ciò che farà, ma sa che per guarire avrà bisogno di tutto il supporto possibile e Brian è l’unica persona al mondo di cui si fidi, ormai.
Peccato che arrivare nella nuova casa dell’amico finisca solo per destabilizzarlo ancora di più quando Alex Holland, l’Alfa del nuovo Branco di Brian, altri non è che il suo Compagno Predestinato. Jason ne vorrebbe essere felice, ma Alex è gigantesco e lui ferito nel profondo, quindi rifugge il legame, troppo spaventato per gioire di quello che ha sperato di ottenere da tutta una vita…
Continua sul nostro blog!
January 22, 2022
Brian, en el primer libro, es ternura.
Jason aquí, es pasión, a pesar de los feos momentos que se ve obligado a soportar. Eso es algo que este segundo libro tiene más, en comparación con el primero, mucho drama y con más sentido.
En cuanto a Alex, como Alfa de una manada me esperaba verlo más dominante, pero es un dulce de leche.
Quiero saber qué será de los siguientes hermanos Holland encontrando a sus parejas.
Jason aquí, es pasión, a pesar de los feos momentos que se ve obligado a soportar. Eso es algo que este segundo libro tiene más, en comparación con el primero, mucho drama y con más sentido.
En cuanto a Alex, como Alfa de una manada me esperaba verlo más dominante, pero es un dulce de leche.
Quiero saber qué será de los siguientes hermanos Holland encontrando a sus parejas.
March 2, 2019
Ich mag Alex, aber die ganze Geschichte ist irgendwie falsch gewichtet. Es wird so viel Zeit daraufhin gearbeitet, dass was ganz Schlimmes passiert und dann schnippt man einmal mit dem Finger und alles ist vorbei. Hartes Thema, das so nebenbei abgewickelt wurde. Schade drum. Werde die Reihe nicht weiter verfolgen.
February 9, 2017
Jason was Brian's best friend growing up. He phones Brian asking if he can stay with him and it seems he was seen coming out of a gay bar so his pack also banished him, but to top it off he'd been drugged, beaten and raped at the club. When he sees Alex who is huge like his attacker he freaks out. He knows he's his mate but is having nightmares, is afraid of big guys and can hardly stand anyone to touch him. Alex is determined to go slow and gradually wins Jason's trust (okay, when I say gradually I say 3 days which in this world is long it seems). Alex is also the alpha and why does he look like Brian from the first m/m I ever read? When did you get the tattoos Brian? Just when things seem on track and Jason is able to go all the way (which takes longer than 3 days, I'll give them that), his attacker shows up. How he knew where Jason was given that he was a day and a half drive away from his old town I have no clue, but whatever. Oh yes and mates have the speaking to each other silently trick happening which allows Alex to come to the rescue in the nick of time. As I said, these are very fast easy reads with likable people and you know the other two brothers have a story coming which I will definitely get. They aren't great literature but when you're in the mood for a quick furry read, a bit of a guilty pleasure, they are a good choice.
March 14, 2014
More of a 3.5 stars, to be honest. I didn't like it as much as the first one, and it wasn't because of the couple or the characters. Actually, I really liked both of these character. And I did feel a connection. But maybe it was because, had I not read the first book, it would have felt like Brian and Jason could have been a great couple? Because that was how it felt for a little while, but maybe that was just me...
Apart from that issue, I really enjoyed the story. The whole Hank thing was well done and I love the Holland Parents. Those two make up for the shitty parents that seem to be in all their boy's mates' lives. And Maryanne makes me laugh.
Apart from that issue, I really enjoyed the story. The whole Hank thing was well done and I love the Holland Parents. Those two make up for the shitty parents that seem to be in all their boy's mates' lives. And Maryanne makes me laugh.
April 25, 2011
A wonderful second installment to the Holland Brother's series. I loved Alex's heart-felt reaction to Jason, showing the Alpha's softer side without making him appear weak. Jason appears weak at first, but the inner strength he displays as he overcomes the attack he endured is a testament to his true character. The way Alex supports Jason while healing is so touching. Another round of edits would have been helpful, but for me, the occasional glitch didn't detract from the overall enjoyment of the story. It was still a fun, enjoyable read. I look forward to learning how Rick snags his man!
November 13, 2013
Just finished reading the revised, expanded version and I'm so happy I did. While I loved the original version this one was so much more fulfilling. The characters were fleshed out better and the plot holes have been filled. Definitely a must re-read. I can't wait for the revised versions of books 3 and 4!
February 21, 2013
I am now completely hooked on these brothers and will finish the rest of the series right away. Good god man, these weres are freaking hot. Don't usually like the insta-love a whole lot but this story was so sweet with poor Jason and his traumatized self. Awww. Big bad alpha to the rescue!
July 3, 2014
Enjoyable, easy read. The plot was pretty straight-forward and simple. No surprises. Would've liked something a little more unpredicable. I liked both Jason and Alex, but found no real connection with them.
January 31, 2018
Still love this book soo much!
August 16, 2022
"Non importa quanto ci vorrà, io sarò qui. Sei il mio compagno, Jason. Sarò sempre qui per te, e prometto che non alzerò mai un dito per farti del male."
August 24, 2022
3 stars and half
January 3, 2023
Roman court avec des réactions et des mots qui ne me plaisent pas trop mais j’adore lire cette série. Je la trouve addictive et tant pis pour les coups de foudre vraiment trop faciles et pas crédibles, selon moi. L’autrice arrive malgré tout à me donner envie de toujours y retourner.
Nous sommes ici avec le grand frère et l’alpha de la meute, Alex. C’est un homme immense mais avec le coeur sur la main. Il est le tatoueur de la ville et est vraiment adorable. Quand il découvre ce que son compagnon a subi, il en est complètement retourné. Il aimerait pouvoir être la pour lui, seulement Jason a peur de lui. J’ai trouvé cet homme incroyable car il va laisser du temps à son compagnon de s’habituer à lui, de ne plus avoir peur, d’apprendre à le connaitre doucement alors qu’il n’a qu’une envie, c’est de le prendre dans ses bras et de le protéger. J’aime bien ce personnage. C’est un homme bon.
Jason, le meilleur ami de Brian (vu dans le premier tome) est lui aussi gay. Sa meute va l’apprendre d’une horrible façon : Jason a été vu sortant d’un bar gay alors qu’il était drogué à son insu. Sa famille n’a même pas cherché à savoir ce qu’il s’était passé et l’a exclu de la meute. Quelle horreur d’avoir subit l’enfer et qu’en plus, il n’a aucun soutien de la part de sa famille ni sa meute. Il va donc retrouver son meilleur ami et la, surprise : il trouve son compagnon !! Jason est un homme brisé et a peut de tout. Il n’a confiance qu’en Brian. J’ai eu de la peine pour lui car c’est homme doux, drôle, qui aime la vie et la, il n’est que l’ombre de lui-même. Il va devoir être patient pour qu’enfin, une vie à peu près normale lui soit offerte.
Malgré un roman court, l’autrice a su bien travailler ses personnages. Jason subit l’horreur et il ne va pas succomber de suite au charme d’Alex et il ne va pas non plus lui sauter dessus. Il va se passer plusieurs semaines avant qu’il retrouve plus au moins, une vie « normale ». Elle a bien su nous faire ressentir son malheur, son dégout, sa peur et sa reconstruction. J’ai du mal avec les « mon coeur », « bébé » et autres surnoms à tout va qui arrivent trop vite dans une relation naissante. C’est quelque chose qui me fait lever les yeux au ciel et la, on est servit ! Néanmoins, l’histoire reste mignonne et Alex est vraiment attentionné et prévenant avec Jason. C’était doux et tendre à lire et je passe donc sur ses petites choses qui m’irritent d’habitude. Je lirais la suite d’autant qu’on à un petit aperçu de qui va y passer ensuite et je suis intriguée.
Nous sommes ici avec le grand frère et l’alpha de la meute, Alex. C’est un homme immense mais avec le coeur sur la main. Il est le tatoueur de la ville et est vraiment adorable. Quand il découvre ce que son compagnon a subi, il en est complètement retourné. Il aimerait pouvoir être la pour lui, seulement Jason a peur de lui. J’ai trouvé cet homme incroyable car il va laisser du temps à son compagnon de s’habituer à lui, de ne plus avoir peur, d’apprendre à le connaitre doucement alors qu’il n’a qu’une envie, c’est de le prendre dans ses bras et de le protéger. J’aime bien ce personnage. C’est un homme bon.
Jason, le meilleur ami de Brian (vu dans le premier tome) est lui aussi gay. Sa meute va l’apprendre d’une horrible façon : Jason a été vu sortant d’un bar gay alors qu’il était drogué à son insu. Sa famille n’a même pas cherché à savoir ce qu’il s’était passé et l’a exclu de la meute. Quelle horreur d’avoir subit l’enfer et qu’en plus, il n’a aucun soutien de la part de sa famille ni sa meute. Il va donc retrouver son meilleur ami et la, surprise : il trouve son compagnon !! Jason est un homme brisé et a peut de tout. Il n’a confiance qu’en Brian. J’ai eu de la peine pour lui car c’est homme doux, drôle, qui aime la vie et la, il n’est que l’ombre de lui-même. Il va devoir être patient pour qu’enfin, une vie à peu près normale lui soit offerte.
Malgré un roman court, l’autrice a su bien travailler ses personnages. Jason subit l’horreur et il ne va pas succomber de suite au charme d’Alex et il ne va pas non plus lui sauter dessus. Il va se passer plusieurs semaines avant qu’il retrouve plus au moins, une vie « normale ». Elle a bien su nous faire ressentir son malheur, son dégout, sa peur et sa reconstruction. J’ai du mal avec les « mon coeur », « bébé » et autres surnoms à tout va qui arrivent trop vite dans une relation naissante. C’est quelque chose qui me fait lever les yeux au ciel et la, on est servit ! Néanmoins, l’histoire reste mignonne et Alex est vraiment attentionné et prévenant avec Jason. C’était doux et tendre à lire et je passe donc sur ses petites choses qui m’irritent d’habitude. Je lirais la suite d’autant qu’on à un petit aperçu de qui va y passer ensuite et je suis intriguée.
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