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Axton & Leander #2
City Wolf
After almost a decade of self imposed solitude, Axton has a boyfriend. Leander might be a thousand miles away, but that still counts, right? Sure, maybe they haven't actually talked about their relationship status yet, and Axton might be a gay werewolf and Leander might be a human, but Ax is pretty sure things are going well. Leander wants Axton to come visit him, but who's going to take care of his forest while he's gone?
Los Angeles is a big change for a reclusive werewolf, but he's in love and happy, with a new family--pack?--to look after. But when Axton's carefully buried past starts to catch up with him, it's only a matter of time before someone pays the price for his freedom.
This is a book especially for fans of: shapeshifters, gay romance, action romance, lawyer romance, adventure romance, and gay for you.
Word count: 98,599
Los Angeles is a big change for a reclusive werewolf, but he's in love and happy, with a new family--pack?--to look after. But when Axton's carefully buried past starts to catch up with him, it's only a matter of time before someone pays the price for his freedom.
This is a book especially for fans of: shapeshifters, gay romance, action romance, lawyer romance, adventure romance, and gay for you.
Word count: 98,599
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 12, 2014
37 people are currently reading
318 people want to read
About the author
S.P. Wayne
3 books142 followersS.P. Wayne lives and writes, sometimes even at the same time, in the American South. Her undergraduate degree is in psychology with a focus in animal behavior, and she's still not really sure why she did that to herself. She did briefly work in a zoo and was best friends with a gorilla, though, and that's pretty cool. Sometimes she writes articles about minority representation in comic books and sometimes she writes reviews of red lipsticks. As a Latina who grew up in Miami, she enjoys tropical and sub-tropical temperatures and yet writes endlessly about snow. Secretly, she writes poetry.
You can find her at used book stores, comic book shops, cafes, discotheques, the gym, and anywhere the sleepless over-caffeinated people of the world go late at night.
You can find her at used book stores, comic book shops, cafes, discotheques, the gym, and anywhere the sleepless over-caffeinated people of the world go late at night.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
August 4, 2022
5 Stars!!
I don't say this very often but I absolutely loved this book! It apparently hit every button of mine. It was hot. It was sexy. It had all my desired angst requirements - jealousy, insecurity, possessiveness, yearning, doubt. On top of that, there was overwhelming love and intense tenderness, with plenty of humor and appropriate gravitas.
Axton is now one of my favorite characters. He is so inherently good and honest and literal, with nary a manipulative bone in his body. Shy, sweet, loyal; his entire being is so endearing and he is raw with vulnerability. But despite these things, be assured that his soft side no way mitigates his absolute fabulous fierceness and strength.
And then there is Leander. He too is drool worthy. Confident, a bit brash, and definitely bossy and strong. I loved how much he loved Axton. He is equally besotted with the man and the wolf. His own steadfast belief in that love made his sudden conversion seem almost effortless. Though there were some realistic, thoughtful pauses and concerns, there wasn't a lot of drama to him switching teams - which made him all the more sexy. His inexplicable pull towards Axton overwhelms any hesitation or doubt and that was just beautiful.
So you have these two amazing guys navigating their new relationship and when they're together, their chemistry was off the charts. I devoured every bit of snark, banter, and revealing moments between them. They accepted each other's foibles and loved in spite of them or maybe because of them. But of course not all is flowers and sunshine. There are obstacles regarding Axton's very werewolf nature, as well as the requisite villain coming between them. My heart was in my throat reading the last 20% and I'm still reeling from the intense emotions it evoked. This is a no brainer if you love werewolves, so start with Winter Wolf to see how it all began. If that doesn't quite convince you, then hopefully the promise of the pure, delicious romanticism of these two will. I anxiously await the conclusion to this series, for Axton and Leander deserve their happy ending (and so do we).
Thanks so much Ingela for reading this with me!! I loved swooning along with you!
I don't say this very often but I absolutely loved this book! It apparently hit every button of mine. It was hot. It was sexy. It had all my desired angst requirements - jealousy, insecurity, possessiveness, yearning, doubt. On top of that, there was overwhelming love and intense tenderness, with plenty of humor and appropriate gravitas.
Axton is now one of my favorite characters. He is so inherently good and honest and literal, with nary a manipulative bone in his body. Shy, sweet, loyal; his entire being is so endearing and he is raw with vulnerability. But despite these things, be assured that his soft side no way mitigates his absolute fabulous fierceness and strength.
And then there is Leander. He too is drool worthy. Confident, a bit brash, and definitely bossy and strong. I loved how much he loved Axton. He is equally besotted with the man and the wolf. His own steadfast belief in that love made his sudden conversion seem almost effortless. Though there were some realistic, thoughtful pauses and concerns, there wasn't a lot of drama to him switching teams - which made him all the more sexy. His inexplicable pull towards Axton overwhelms any hesitation or doubt and that was just beautiful.
So you have these two amazing guys navigating their new relationship and when they're together, their chemistry was off the charts. I devoured every bit of snark, banter, and revealing moments between them. They accepted each other's foibles and loved in spite of them or maybe because of them. But of course not all is flowers and sunshine. There are obstacles regarding Axton's very werewolf nature, as well as the requisite villain coming between them. My heart was in my throat reading the last 20% and I'm still reeling from the intense emotions it evoked. This is a no brainer if you love werewolves, so start with Winter Wolf to see how it all began. If that doesn't quite convince you, then hopefully the promise of the pure, delicious romanticism of these two will. I anxiously await the conclusion to this series, for Axton and Leander deserve their happy ending (and so do we).
Thanks so much Ingela for reading this with me!! I loved swooning along with you!
February 9, 2015
Written February 9, 2015
4 1/2 Stars - Loved it. Want more. Stunned!!
Book #2
OMG, OMG !! ~ I needed to process and reflect this read a few days. It was just so...so..much to take in here. Shocking but also so exciting, romantic and wonderfully funny in parts.
A GREAT (kind of needed) second book full of bantering, sweet moments, adorable MC's (I love, love, love Axton), interesting second characters and in the end also heartbreaking turns and thrilling action.
***********************************************************
I was quite taken by the first book, #1 - Winter Wold (4.4 stars). It was a low paced (in a good way) and very "wolfie" outdoors nature story about the most gorgeous sweet werewolf I ever heard or read about.
In the first book did we spent the time in a deep isolated Montana wood. We learned about how a lonly, pack-less, werewolf, Axton got a new neighbor, a nice friend and later also GFY lover. Leander, the big-city lawyer from California was so tempting interesting —blond, sexy, brave, funny, goodlooking— and most of all friendly that Axton couldn't resist him.
A Montana werewolfs journey to love & life in LA
This second book City Wolf tells the tale when Axton leave his lonely forest-life to visiting his new boyfriend Leander in Los Angles. Of course it will be fun when the guy from the country come to the big city. This also makes it very sweet when the shy Axton adapt to all these people, crowds, asphalt instead of large forests and a sexy h@rny boyfriend. Yum!
What perhaps surprised me most was how open Leander is with this fact that he can now be seen as gay man and that he has a steady boyfriend. This man is actually a highly regarded LA lawyer who surrounded himself with a bunch of beautiful long-legged women until now. Is it really so simple and so quickly done for man like him? Although there are a few months ago they became lovers in the forest cottage. Really? ...Well done anyway Leander.
Note: Leander's lovely hilarious work assistant is also a gem. Efficient, resourceful and caring. Lucky him!
***********************************************************
In my opinion has this PNR probably all that can be expected of a good M/M romance. It is steaming hot, there are some dirty whispering endearments, deliciously cute romantic moments and nice second-characters. We also get a bundle of anxiety, some disagreements, funny jokes and banters, action-parts and a creeping increasing exciting feeling. ~ And best of all: two amazing love able main character. I can't stop my self if I start to write about my new favorite werewolf Axton. He is just adorable gorgeous and I love all about him.
Quite long but so charming good. I just want to grab that not yet published third part to follow this amazing adventure to the end. I want to KNOW that these lovely boys are in a good place for a long lasting HEA-ever.
***********************************************************
I LIKE - very, very much
*********
Buddyread with my US buddy Are (her 5 stars review). ~ Thanks my friend, this was a great read. I know I'm a snail reader but this book actually needed some time.
4 1/2 Stars - Loved it. Want more. Stunned!!
Book #2
OMG, OMG !! ~ I needed to process and reflect this read a few days. It was just so...so..much to take in here. Shocking but also so exciting, romantic and wonderfully funny in parts.
‘... Leander teased. “You don't have to pack anything. I've got condoms and lube. What else do we need?”
Axton made a soft, scandalized sound.
“Please,” Leander scoffed. “As if we could pretend that I'm not inviting you down here to have sex.”
A GREAT (kind of needed) second book full of bantering, sweet moments, adorable MC's (I love, love, love Axton), interesting second characters and in the end also heartbreaking turns and thrilling action.
***********************************************************
I was quite taken by the first book, #1 - Winter Wold (4.4 stars). It was a low paced (in a good way) and very "wolfie" outdoors nature story about the most gorgeous sweet werewolf I ever heard or read about.
In the first book did we spent the time in a deep isolated Montana wood. We learned about how a lonly, pack-less, werewolf, Axton got a new neighbor, a nice friend and later also GFY lover. Leander, the big-city lawyer from California was so tempting interesting —blond, sexy, brave, funny, goodlooking— and most of all friendly that Axton couldn't resist him.
"You don't belong to me," he whispered, bending over Axton to whisper into his sleeping ear, "You belong to the woods."
Axton's breathing didn't change.
"I haven't forgotten," Leander promised, still whispering. "I haven't forgotten because I love you. And to love you is to never forget."
A Montana werewolfs journey to love & life in LA
This second book City Wolf tells the tale when Axton leave his lonely forest-life to visiting his new boyfriend Leander in Los Angles. Of course it will be fun when the guy from the country come to the big city. This also makes it very sweet when the shy Axton adapt to all these people, crowds, asphalt instead of large forests and a sexy h@rny boyfriend. Yum!
"What, we're going to sleep now?" Leander asked. "No post game briefing? No lengthy accolades for my flawless debut performance?"
"The metabolic cost of f@cking is quite high," Axton said in a too-serious voice, not opening his eyes.
Leander made a few generic judgmental noises and then, gratefully, settled down to sleep. Thank f@ck. He was exhausted. It was hard, being that sexy.’
What perhaps surprised me most was how open Leander is with this fact that he can now be seen as gay man and that he has a steady boyfriend. This man is actually a highly regarded LA lawyer who surrounded himself with a bunch of beautiful long-legged women until now. Is it really so simple and so quickly done for man like him? Although there are a few months ago they became lovers in the forest cottage. Really? ...Well done anyway Leander.
Note: Leander's lovely hilarious work assistant is also a gem. Efficient, resourceful and caring. Lucky him!
***********************************************************
In my opinion has this PNR probably all that can be expected of a good M/M romance. It is steaming hot, there are some dirty whispering endearments, deliciously cute romantic moments and nice second-characters. We also get a bundle of anxiety, some disagreements, funny jokes and banters, action-parts and a creeping increasing exciting feeling. ~ And best of all: two amazing love able main character. I can't stop my self if I start to write about my new favorite werewolf Axton. He is just adorable gorgeous and I love all about him.
Quite long but so charming good. I just want to grab that not yet published third part to follow this amazing adventure to the end. I want to KNOW that these lovely boys are in a good place for a long lasting HEA-ever.
***********************************************************
I LIKE - very, very much
*********
Buddyread with my US buddy Are (her 5 stars review). ~ Thanks my friend, this was a great read. I know I'm a snail reader but this book actually needed some time.
February 6, 2022
2nd read
MM-Romance, Shifters, Contemporary, Interacial MCs, Series (trilogy, same couple), Heat Med
So damn good.
1st read
Arghh cliffhanger *glares and runs to read the next book*
S.P. Wayne kills it with the action scenes in City Wolf . It's stress inducing and nail-biting as it should be.
Blown away by the descriptions of Axton. He is a very believable werewolf. VERY believable. Behaviorally, emotionally, physically.
Seriously, Axton's wolf is very much a full character in the story and the descriptions are flawless.
Axton pacing in the apartment in his wolf form. Axton and Leander taking trips to the desert so that he could spend a few days in his fur. Hiking through the local forest. His restlessness being so far from home. His need to be surrounded by nature. And I adore the dynamic between the couple when Axton is a wolf form.
The struggle melding these two very different lives is stressful and comes through beautifully.
Leander has a life in California. City Wolf really brings him into focus. Leander is a surprising character, each layer that's pealed away exposes such a good man. A man who cares about his community. A man who despite thinking he was straight all his life finds himself in love with a man, a werewolf. And that struggle isn't ignored. Doubts and insecurities are present. He's very in tune with himself.
This is truly unlike any shifter story. It doesn't rely on insta-love/lust/mate to progress. Instead it grows the relationship in a natural and believable manner. It gets deeper as it goes on. They discover new things about each other in this new environment. Axton's past isn't neglected either, it comes barreling into this budding relationship.
This is the kind of story that makes you think I could totally believe in the existence of werewolves in real life . Or maybe it's just me 🤷🏽♀️
Onwards
MM-Romance, Shifters, Contemporary, Interacial MCs, Series (trilogy, same couple), Heat Med
So damn good.
1st read
Arghh cliffhanger *glares and runs to read the next book*
S.P. Wayne kills it with the action scenes in City Wolf . It's stress inducing and nail-biting as it should be.
Blown away by the descriptions of Axton. He is a very believable werewolf. VERY believable. Behaviorally, emotionally, physically.
Seriously, Axton's wolf is very much a full character in the story and the descriptions are flawless.
Axton pacing in the apartment in his wolf form. Axton and Leander taking trips to the desert so that he could spend a few days in his fur. Hiking through the local forest. His restlessness being so far from home. His need to be surrounded by nature. And I adore the dynamic between the couple when Axton is a wolf form.
The struggle melding these two very different lives is stressful and comes through beautifully.
Leander has a life in California. City Wolf really brings him into focus. Leander is a surprising character, each layer that's pealed away exposes such a good man. A man who cares about his community. A man who despite thinking he was straight all his life finds himself in love with a man, a werewolf. And that struggle isn't ignored. Doubts and insecurities are present. He's very in tune with himself.
This is truly unlike any shifter story. It doesn't rely on insta-love/lust/mate to progress. Instead it grows the relationship in a natural and believable manner. It gets deeper as it goes on. They discover new things about each other in this new environment. Axton's past isn't neglected either, it comes barreling into this budding relationship.
This is the kind of story that makes you think I could totally believe in the existence of werewolves in real life . Or maybe it's just me 🤷🏽♀️
Onwards
November 29, 2017
5 Stars
With an ending like that who has time to write a proper review when there's another book to attack-read immediately!?!
Not me.
I loved the storyline; I adored the characters; I laughed my ass off; I highlighted like mental; I cried like a little bitch at the end; yadda, yadda, yadda, THE END.
*faceplants into the final book*
With an ending like that who has time to write a proper review when there's another book to attack-read immediately!?!
Not me.
I loved the storyline; I adored the characters; I laughed my ass off; I highlighted like mental; I cried like a little bitch at the end; yadda, yadda, yadda, THE END.
*faceplants into the final book*
October 25, 2024
It's not easy to put into words how much I love Axton and Leander.
They're one of my favorite mm couples, ever.
The plot was (again) amazing, very different from the Winter Wolf, but not less awesome, the writing was (again) compelling and gripping, but needs editing because of the many typos (again). And like before I didn't care because the story was amazing.
I rarely enjoy sequels after a couple gets together, but I loved this book.
I loved how Axton and Leander knew they were in love, but had so many new things to learn about each other. Their intimacy was beautiful, the way they opened up and talked about their emotions, and showed them... *swoon*.
While Winter Wolf was Axton's book, City Wolf is Leander's book with much more of the storyline divided between both of them. It was awesome to get Leander's pov, too and learn so much more about him.
I loved how playful and happy they were for a big part of the book. When things got tricky and complicated I hurt with them, and when the end of the book approached I was devastated.
I don't know how the author is going to turn things around for Axton and Leander, but the next/last book's title gives me hope "Everything carries me to you".
This series is an epic love story, it already feels like an all time favorite for me that I'm sure I'll reread many times over the years. It's full of surprises and I can't recommend it enough.
Ps look for A Reader Obsessed's review, they are way better at expressing my feelings for Axton and Leander ;)
They're one of my favorite mm couples, ever.
The plot was (again) amazing, very different from the Winter Wolf, but not less awesome, the writing was (again) compelling and gripping, but needs editing because of the many typos (again). And like before I didn't care because the story was amazing.
I rarely enjoy sequels after a couple gets together, but I loved this book.
I loved how Axton and Leander knew they were in love, but had so many new things to learn about each other. Their intimacy was beautiful, the way they opened up and talked about their emotions, and showed them... *swoon*.
While Winter Wolf was Axton's book, City Wolf is Leander's book with much more of the storyline divided between both of them. It was awesome to get Leander's pov, too and learn so much more about him.
I loved how playful and happy they were for a big part of the book. When things got tricky and complicated I hurt with them, and when the end of the book approached I was devastated.
I don't know how the author is going to turn things around for Axton and Leander, but the next/last book's title gives me hope "Everything carries me to you".
This series is an epic love story, it already feels like an all time favorite for me that I'm sure I'll reread many times over the years. It's full of surprises and I can't recommend it enough.
Ps look for A Reader Obsessed's review, they are way better at expressing my feelings for Axton and Leander ;)
February 16, 2014
The ending! I can't even think right now! Please release book 3 soon! Goddammit! The two MCs are just so like-able, I couldn't put my reader down. Best MM shifter romance of 2013! Do not miss this series!
I want to rip somebody's throat now!
Book 3 is gonna be so awesome and it is going to be this hot:
I want to rip somebody's throat now!
Book 3 is gonna be so awesome and it is going to be this hot:
April 29, 2014
So, this was my review up until the ending, which gutted me:
Two hot men
Axton is adorable
Leander is funny
I love the dialogue
But not the typos
But then I read that ending.
I loved this story. Sweet, romantic, funny, sexy...intense. That ending, though...that was gut-wrenching. Things got real and I had to keep wiping tears to read the words...and I need book three ASAP.
Side notes:
The female characters were awesome.
The banter was perfect...so funny, and perfectly timed.
Did I mention how hot these two men were? Because they were. Ridiculously hot.
That ending, though...
Okay, I'm going to just sit here and hug my ereader for awhile.
Two hot men
Axton is adorable
Leander is funny
I love the dialogue
But not the typos
But then I read that ending.
I loved this story. Sweet, romantic, funny, sexy...intense. That ending, though...that was gut-wrenching. Things got real and I had to keep wiping tears to read the words...and I need book three ASAP.
Side notes:
The female characters were awesome.
The banter was perfect...so funny, and perfectly timed.
Did I mention how hot these two men were? Because they were. Ridiculously hot.
That ending, though...
Okay, I'm going to just sit here and hug my ereader for awhile.
January 5, 2025
Ehm okay wow. This took a turn I didn’t see coming. The first half of the book was absolutely wonderful with Ax and Leander finding their footing in their new relationship and in a new environment. Their dates, exploration of bodies and feelings, of a possible future, their playfulness, the introduction of great new characters… all of that one hundred percent worked for me. I felt their love and adoration for each other oozing out of the pages, making me swoon and giddy.
I even connected fully to Leander, the switch between POVs was much more balanced and organic and I feel like I really got to know and love him in this book!
And then… The author decides to go with one of my least favourite tropes of all times: the jealous, unhinged ex, noooo 😩
I don’t know… I would have been intensely satisfied had this book continued in tone and themes the same way the first 50% were going (or the whole first book tbh).
I think their general situation - with the long distance relationship between middle of nowhere Montana and LA, and obvs human vs. werewolf or hell, sexual orientation struggles - even had enough ground for relatable conflict, so I didn’t get why we needed even more and such heartbreaking conflict in form of Dana, the worst ex in history 😭😭
And to be honest, I didn’t like or understand Ax much in this particular storyline and felt he acted out of character. I couldn’t believe how he behaved during the first encounter with Dana and I’m not sure I fully forgave him for the rest of the book.
On the whole I’d say this was a lot less feel good and a lot more angst and heartbreak that had me seriously on edge for the second half of the book while waiting for the other show to drop. And drop it did.
I’m exhausted from being so fucking tense, angry, frustrated and heartbroken the last couple of hours and don’t EVEN get me started on that ending, like what the actual fuck.
Woah, I really went through all the emotions reading this one (which, great!) and will have to continue with book three right tf now, because WOW I need these two to be okay more than I need my coffee in the morning. And that’s saying something, I’m like Leander in that regard ☕️
4⭐️
I even connected fully to Leander, the switch between POVs was much more balanced and organic and I feel like I really got to know and love him in this book!
And then… The author decides to go with one of my least favourite tropes of all times: the jealous, unhinged ex, noooo 😩
I don’t know… I would have been intensely satisfied had this book continued in tone and themes the same way the first 50% were going (or the whole first book tbh).
I think their general situation - with the long distance relationship between middle of nowhere Montana and LA, and obvs human vs. werewolf or hell, sexual orientation struggles - even had enough ground for relatable conflict, so I didn’t get why we needed even more and such heartbreaking conflict in form of Dana, the worst ex in history 😭😭
And to be honest, I didn’t like or understand Ax much in this particular storyline and felt he acted out of character. I couldn’t believe how he behaved during the first encounter with Dana and I’m not sure I fully forgave him for the rest of the book.
On the whole I’d say this was a lot less feel good and a lot more angst and heartbreak that had me seriously on edge for the second half of the book while waiting for the other show to drop. And drop it did.
I’m exhausted from being so fucking tense, angry, frustrated and heartbroken the last couple of hours and don’t EVEN get me started on that ending, like what the actual fuck.
Woah, I really went through all the emotions reading this one (which, great!) and will have to continue with book three right tf now, because WOW I need these two to be okay more than I need my coffee in the morning. And that’s saying something, I’m like Leander in that regard ☕️
4⭐️
March 17, 2014
Fingers running through soft fur. Heat. Running. Biting. Sharing. Laughing. Acceptance and LOVE.
“Should he have known that to love a human—to love this human – would be to love, in a fashion, so many others?”
City Wolf was a warm wonder of a read alive with emotion and energy. So many scenes pulled me right into the world and moment. I could see Leander’s smug smiles; feel the press of the dance floor; and the heat of a blush. Oh, how I love Axton’s blushing!
“Axton clamped their mouths together, moaning in desire and distress at once, emotions whiplashing through him as he shoved his hips to grind up against Leander. His kiss carried them so quickly away from the possibility of conversation that Leander threw an arm around his hips, drawing him close with a hand on his ass, as if they were in danger of being thrown apart.”
As much as I adore Axton, Leander was the star of the show for me in this book. He shined with humor and charm. I could see him so clearly—in and around his environment. His life was packed with work, fitness, family, and friends. A life bursting with life! A life that showed how connected we all are to each and to the land around us. Home can be such a powerful mix of comfort, trust, land, and people. And Leander didn’t hesitate to embrace and pull Axton right into the mix. Axton’s first family dinner was so much fun to be a part of…Haha—the blushing!
This part of Axton and Leander’s journey seemed so real to me. Life caught on the page with all its awkwardness, angst, sweetness and intimacy. Sharing their days and nights. Allowing each other into their hearts, routines, and worlds so completely. The joy and wonder of the simplest things in life were on full display here. Sharing breakfast. Bathing. Running side by side. Ms. Wayne reminded me again and again to enjoy every little bit of life from a quick kiss on the cheek to the bright, big moon watching over us. I adored watching both men relax and melt right into each other.
I did have a couple of niggles and grumbles, but nothing that pulled me out of the story. And nothing that disrupted my love for these guys at all! My issues were with Dana and how Axton talked and dealt with him and about him. *smacks Axton on the back of the head* Wake up!
S.P. Wayne’s words and story also set off some serious thinking about my crazy, chaotic circle of family and friends. We place so much trust in the people around us. Never realizing or expecting them to turn and hurt us. It’s so scary how easy it is to shut down after we get hurt. We build a world of our own to protect ourselves—not realizing how much we miss the warmth of a community and the touch of a friend. Axton’s slow adjustment to the hustle and bustle of the city was something special to experience. But it was his shyness giving way to friendship and love that stole my heart. My favorite part was when….
I’m sorry, but I truly cannot capture my feelings for this book on paper. I tried all weekend long. Just know I enjoyed my stay in this world with Axton and Leander. It felt…warm is the best word I can come up with to describe it. Funny, beautiful, warm and alive. When I clicked this book closed—I instantly missed the embrace and warmth.
I’m waiting right here—Tap, tap, *tapping* my foot for the next book!
August 12, 2015
DNF at 76%
I give up.
There were parts that had me thinking I was finally getting into the story. But then something completely out of character happened and I was back to being moody.
I loved Axton, but how he handled the ex-boyfriend thing really infuriated me. The ex-boyfriend Dana tried to kidnap him, he punched Leander, and Axton is still somewhat attracted to him and even hugs him. That was so not okay.
And I felt Axton being this hermit hiding in the woods in the first book and a sexy gay club dancer in this book was really weird. It just didn’t fit his character.
What also bothered me was the lack of sex scenes. It could be we got 1 sex scene in the beginning, but other than that, all the sex is off page.
I was having a hard time believing in the great love these two were supposed to have. They say I love you every other page, but I need at least a couple of scenes where they hump each other before I start believing it.
And the GFY aspect didn’t improve with this book. I just couldn’t get a good feel for Leander.
I could see the potential, but sorry, this didn’t work for me.
I give up.
There were parts that had me thinking I was finally getting into the story. But then something completely out of character happened and I was back to being moody.
I loved Axton, but how he handled the ex-boyfriend thing really infuriated me. The ex-boyfriend Dana tried to kidnap him, he punched Leander, and Axton is still somewhat attracted to him and even hugs him. That was so not okay.
And I felt Axton being this hermit hiding in the woods in the first book and a sexy gay club dancer in this book was really weird. It just didn’t fit his character.
What also bothered me was the lack of sex scenes. It could be we got 1 sex scene in the beginning, but other than that, all the sex is off page.
I was having a hard time believing in the great love these two were supposed to have. They say I love you every other page, but I need at least a couple of scenes where they hump each other before I start believing it.
And the GFY aspect didn’t improve with this book. I just couldn’t get a good feel for Leander.
I could see the potential, but sorry, this didn’t work for me.
July 19, 2025
Re-read November 2024: seriously, give yourselves the gift of this series, friends
Dove into this straight from book one, and was just luxuriating in the soft, sweet relationship feels as Axton and Leander's new, fragile togetherness deepens into everyday intimacy and love, as Axton gradually comes out of his reclusive shell and starts figuring out how to live among people and among family, as Leander comes to terms with the fact that he is magnetically attracted to and, in fact, in love with a man (and werewolf, but it's really the man thing that is the greater adjustment), and it's all so lovely and tender and gently funny and [heart eyes emoji] and and and
"I love you," Axton said immediately upon fully waking and sitting up.
"I love you, too," Leander said, and there, just like that, it was done, as easily as if it had always been true.
And then I look away for 2 seconds and plot happens. Goddammit.
Seriously, though, when plot first peeked its head above the parapet, I was kind of annoyed. Book 1 was just pining and nature, and I could have happily read another 200 pages of these two settling into life in LA: working out, fixing shit, using Axton's tracking skills to locate the elusive taco truck, gay sex school. But noooooooo. There had to be conflict. There had to be action. There had to be stakes. Grumble grumble.
As it happens, I can't be too mad about it because the conflict/ action/ stakes actually had a point beyond annoying me. The introduction of Axton's ex -- bringing along with him the reactionary, violent, homophobic and human-phobic aspects of werewolf culture that Axton had been, first forcibly, later self- exiled from -- did exactly what it was supposed to: create drama -- the first real argument, the first reconciliation -- and, more to the point, give Axton and Leander (and, of course, us) a greater understanding of their separate pasts, their ideas and hopes for their shared future, and their principles and instincts and the lines they won't cross and the lines they will. It knocks both men down to their lowest points, and sets book 3 up for an epic struggle.
Realistically, I'm gonna probably go back and rate all three books 5 stars, but I don't want to pull the trigger on that until I see how it all ends. I can say that whoever did the copy editing for this book deserves a stern talking to. Wonderful writing -- I've gotten fully used to the head hopping, although here we're getting more distinct POVs, whereas book 1 was much more in Axton's head and only occasionally slipping to Leander's -- but god, the typos!
As I write this, I'm halfway through book 3 and pretty blown away at how seriously SP Wayne is taking the "give them what they need, not what they want" dictum. And I mean that in a good way. Can't wait to see how this story ends.
ETA after book 3: the rounding up, it has happened
Dove into this straight from book one, and was just luxuriating in the soft, sweet relationship feels as Axton and Leander's new, fragile togetherness deepens into everyday intimacy and love, as Axton gradually comes out of his reclusive shell and starts figuring out how to live among people and among family, as Leander comes to terms with the fact that he is magnetically attracted to and, in fact, in love with a man (and werewolf, but it's really the man thing that is the greater adjustment), and it's all so lovely and tender and gently funny and [heart eyes emoji] and and and
"I love you," Axton said immediately upon fully waking and sitting up.
"I love you, too," Leander said, and there, just like that, it was done, as easily as if it had always been true.
And then I look away for 2 seconds and plot happens. Goddammit.
Seriously, though, when plot first peeked its head above the parapet, I was kind of annoyed. Book 1 was just pining and nature, and I could have happily read another 200 pages of these two settling into life in LA: working out, fixing shit, using Axton's tracking skills to locate the elusive taco truck, gay sex school. But noooooooo. There had to be conflict. There had to be action. There had to be stakes. Grumble grumble.
As it happens, I can't be too mad about it because the conflict/ action/ stakes actually had a point beyond annoying me. The introduction of Axton's ex -- bringing along with him the reactionary, violent, homophobic and human-phobic aspects of werewolf culture that Axton had been, first forcibly, later self- exiled from -- did exactly what it was supposed to: create drama -- the first real argument, the first reconciliation -- and, more to the point, give Axton and Leander (and, of course, us) a greater understanding of their separate pasts, their ideas and hopes for their shared future, and their principles and instincts and the lines they won't cross and the lines they will. It knocks both men down to their lowest points, and sets book 3 up for an epic struggle.
Realistically, I'm gonna probably go back and rate all three books 5 stars, but I don't want to pull the trigger on that until I see how it all ends. I can say that whoever did the copy editing for this book deserves a stern talking to. Wonderful writing -- I've gotten fully used to the head hopping, although here we're getting more distinct POVs, whereas book 1 was much more in Axton's head and only occasionally slipping to Leander's -- but god, the typos!
As I write this, I'm halfway through book 3 and pretty blown away at how seriously SP Wayne is taking the "give them what they need, not what they want" dictum. And I mean that in a good way. Can't wait to see how this story ends.
ETA after book 3: the rounding up, it has happened
February 26, 2014
I have been gutted and hollowed out with a plastic butter knife to a meager shell of my former existence.
The Twilight Bella/Edward/Jacob's of the land..take your last breath. This is how it's done. Watch the masters at work as a homo-erotic cult classic takes over.
Leander..
This raised the volume from the first (FREE) book Winter Wolf, not an easy feat and yet this writer did it effortlessly.
Authentic angst, hilarious dialogue, swoon-worthy lust, page-turning plot, gripping action..my list could go on and on..and by the end..I'm quite confident it will be a mile long.
But my dearly-departed wolf 'Ajax' & I (knew this writer & I had a cosmic connection cooking) will temporarily shelve our remaining glowing thoughts and accolades until the end of this fabulously-entertaining ride of a series.
The Twilight Bella/Edward/Jacob's of the land..take your last breath. This is how it's done. Watch the masters at work as a homo-erotic cult classic takes over.
Leander..
This raised the volume from the first (FREE) book Winter Wolf, not an easy feat and yet this writer did it effortlessly.
Authentic angst, hilarious dialogue, swoon-worthy lust, page-turning plot, gripping action..my list could go on and on..and by the end..I'm quite confident it will be a mile long.
But my dearly-departed wolf 'Ajax' & I (knew this writer & I had a cosmic connection cooking) will temporarily shelve our remaining glowing thoughts and accolades until the end of this fabulously-entertaining ride of a series.
July 21, 2015
*4.5*
While reading City Wolf, it really felt like that this author had developed a lot from the last book (or maybe just gotten a better editor). I think that the 2nd book in this series was, in a way, a better read than the 1st.
I loved the first one, of course. It is always the best part in romance to see how two people get together, those tentative steps towards each other. However, since I rarely like sequels to romances, City Wolf was really much, much better than I had expected.
Instead of the cold, snowy winter, it’s time for some west coast beach time. It was great to see how the settings reflected Axton and Leander’s personalities in a way, the roughness of winter and cold, versus the relaxed mentality of a sunny coast.
I also liked the feeling that Axton had to step back into the “real world”. No more escaping, be it from emotions or practical matters.
Again, this author writes awesome action scenes, just like in the previous book.
Here, there is even more stuff happening!
Leander definitely got to shine a bit more in this one, and it was really great to see more of his life. It was also cute to see that him suddenly being in love with a guy, was not such a big drama for those close to him. That angst I get a lot in other contemporary romance books anyway!
I do think Leander and Axton felt a bit different from the first book, but not bad different. For me, it just showed that they both had grown in to a certain jargong (which was quite raw at times, with terms of endearments being rather “you spoiled little shit” than “sugar honey”. Me likey a lot! Their relationship developed into something really great, with a lot of humor, trust, and sexy times.
Since I’m a big fan of fantasy/UF/Paranormal in general, I liked the fact that Axton was not only what we've learnt about him so far. He is not only the shy, hermit wolf man encountered in Winter Wolf, there is much more to him.
Having read similar books to this (yes Twilight, I’m talking about you), the cliffhanger was not that big of a surprise. From the moment Dana showed up, there was that air of inevitability in the story, and I can’t wait for book 3, and see what the resolution will be…
Ugh, Dana.
As for the steam factor, it started out quite nicely. However, as the story developed, the amount of sex got less. But for once, I’m not really complaining, it is more of an afterthought, since I was too wrapped up in the action to actually notice.
While reading City Wolf, it really felt like that this author had developed a lot from the last book (or maybe just gotten a better editor). I think that the 2nd book in this series was, in a way, a better read than the 1st.
I loved the first one, of course. It is always the best part in romance to see how two people get together, those tentative steps towards each other. However, since I rarely like sequels to romances, City Wolf was really much, much better than I had expected.
Instead of the cold, snowy winter, it’s time for some west coast beach time. It was great to see how the settings reflected Axton and Leander’s personalities in a way, the roughness of winter and cold, versus the relaxed mentality of a sunny coast.
I also liked the feeling that Axton had to step back into the “real world”. No more escaping, be it from emotions or practical matters.
Again, this author writes awesome action scenes, just like in the previous book.
Here, there is even more stuff happening!
Leander definitely got to shine a bit more in this one, and it was really great to see more of his life. It was also cute to see that him suddenly being in love with a guy, was not such a big drama for those close to him. That angst I get a lot in other contemporary romance books anyway!
I do think Leander and Axton felt a bit different from the first book, but not bad different. For me, it just showed that they both had grown in to a certain jargong (which was quite raw at times, with terms of endearments being rather “you spoiled little shit” than “sugar honey”. Me likey a lot! Their relationship developed into something really great, with a lot of humor, trust, and sexy times.
Since I’m a big fan of fantasy/UF/Paranormal in general, I liked the fact that Axton was not only what we've learnt about him so far. He is not only the shy, hermit wolf man encountered in Winter Wolf, there is much more to him.
Having read similar books to this (yes Twilight, I’m talking about you), the cliffhanger was not that big of a surprise. From the moment Dana showed up, there was that air of inevitability in the story, and I can’t wait for book 3, and see what the resolution will be…
Ugh, Dana.
As for the steam factor, it started out quite nicely. However, as the story developed, the amount of sex got less. But for once, I’m not really complaining, it is more of an afterthought, since I was too wrapped up in the action to actually notice.
November 17, 2015
4.5 stars
I can’t say how much I love these two guys.
I can’t find a word for what they have together. City Wolf is all about them finding this out.
The way the author plays up their opposite personalities and attributes through dialogue and interaction simply paints them as one of the most endearing and sensual couples I’ve encountered in the genre. There is a sweet playfulness and connection and sexual tension between them that continues wonderfully in this second book.
We saw all of this in book one, how Leander and Axton’s attraction has as much to do with how they get to know and respect their differences as it does with the smoking hot sex (sex that doesn’t overwhelm the story and is more about why than how). Axton is that finely honed shifter/hunter with a soft heart; he’s a caretaker of his wilderness home. He hunts for sustenance and to keep the wildlife population in balance; he’s a rescuer of orphaned kittens…
And Leander understands and appreciates all of this. But he’s the city wolf after all. And when Axton finally comes to LA’s concrete jungle, Lee’s habitat, we get to see Lee in his element. Lee is a caretaker too. He’s a hot-shot lawyer but he also takes care of his family (all female) and his old barrio neighborhood. He wants Ax to be part of his human pack. In LA, we get more of how very careful and considerate he is of Ax’s shy skittishness and how very much he is in love with him.
And Ax… who I thoroughly fell in love with in book one for his exuberant fellowship with his Montana wilderness and his simple goodness-- a wolf shifter who commiserates. Well, his devotion to Lee is expressed in his leaving his beloved home to be with Lee in the big city.
That’s a huge gesture of love.
This move from dense back woods of book one to the very urban City of Angels must change the feel of this story. The shift in atmosphere goes from dreamy and otherworldly to harsher with sharper corners. That unique ‘something’ about Winter Wolf has been diminished. But it doesn’t matter because at the center is still these two men and how we get to peep in on their love affair, how they flirt and seduce and… combust.
I found a word for it… delicious. It just is.
There are other dark forces at play: the city is truly not Ax’s playground, he sacrifices a lot to be with Lee there. His wolf constantly pulls at him. And that is the ultimate conundrum… how will he be able to build a life with Lee, meet his wolf needs, and not betray the laws of his shifter world? When a threat from that world stalks him, how will he protect Lee and his new family?
A couple of issues… once again the editing is just abysmal-- better than book one but it should be a whole lot better. There are such sloppy misses in the text (Axton becomes Axon more than once) that could be caught with a little more care. Also, the ending is a brutal cliffhanger, not even a happy for now, it will break your heart. Be warned.
But despite the move to SoCal (and me being a NorCal girl, I’m not enamored with it) and these issues, the story still sings for me. I simply loved it. Can’t wait for the next book which had better be coming pretty freaking soon dammit.
February 17, 2014
It was good, but still a disappointment.
If that makes sense.
Axton seemed to be changed a bit and the story wasn't as intense as Winter Wolf.
So I was disappointed, because I just loved the Axton I met in the first book.
What I liked was, that Leander became less bland and more interesting in the second book.
I loved the women in his life, the banter, the sense of humor.
So I deducted one star because Axton was a bit different and actually got on my nerves in the end with his undecisiveness while being in a major crisis and his stupidity and naivety.
And I didn't like very much where the story is going. Because it made this series less unique.
The first book was basically devoid of all tropes and usual werewolf themes. And that made it a brilliant read for me (this and the emotional impact).
Here, the story line after the fateful meeting with Axton's ex runs into known tracks. So another star has to go.
But I will still pick up the next one and hope for more original plot turns and more tension and emotion that is shown, not told.
If that makes sense.
Axton seemed to be changed a bit and the story wasn't as intense as Winter Wolf.
So I was disappointed, because I just loved the Axton I met in the first book.
What I liked was, that Leander became less bland and more interesting in the second book.
I loved the women in his life, the banter, the sense of humor.
So I deducted one star because Axton was a bit different and actually got on my nerves in the end with his undecisiveness while being in a major crisis and his stupidity and naivety.
And I didn't like very much where the story is going. Because it made this series less unique.
The first book was basically devoid of all tropes and usual werewolf themes. And that made it a brilliant read for me (this and the emotional impact).
Here, the story line after the fateful meeting with Axton's ex runs into known tracks. So another star has to go.
But I will still pick up the next one and hope for more original plot turns and more tension and emotion that is shown, not told.
October 31, 2014
You know zeh drill - 4.5 Celestials on Prism Book Alliance
I was a mere 2% into this book and I said: I’m already saying awwwww, I’ve really missed Axton and Leander from Winter Wolf and, wait for it, I’m actually going to use the word adorable.
The tone of City Wolf is different than that of Winter Wolf, the opener in this series. It’s because the personalities of both Axton and Leander are front and center. Axton can’t pretend he’s a mystery to Leander anymore, and Leander can’t hold back his energetic humor in an attempt to hide his true feelings. These two are in it for the long haul.
Firsts. Axton and Leander both are checking off several of those boxes under the relationship category. These all make for amusing revelations and sweet conversations. Their directness and honesty with each other in most things are refreshing and help propel the story forward.
Lest there be an ounce of doubt, this is seriously romantic. Lest there be any concern, this is unrelentingly hot. Lest there be any worry, this is such a wonderfully fun read. I could barely keep the grin off of my face – I stopped trying – as Ax and Lee navigate relationshiplandia, poking fun at themselves as much as each other.
About a quarter of the way through and I already felt like I had been given a full story in the best way. Still so many pages of Axton and Leander to sop up like a freshly made oatmeal biscuit drowning in mouthwatering melted buttah. Buttah, I tells ya!
There is joy in Wayne’s writing. Joy. In the writing. It’s scrawled all over like the walls of a mile-long cave painting filled with scenes of dancing, eating and sexing. It grabbed my hand, this writing, and I just as joyfully skipped along the pages with it. Joy.
The supporting characters are used as touchstones, avenues of realization for both Axton and Leander. Axton starts to learn, finally, how it feels to truly have a family, a family that has chosen you and will back you up no matter what. Leander comes to understand himself better than ever before, especially when it comes to Axton, to loving him.
Christina and Leander exchanged looks.
“A blusher,” she said.
“I know,” he said, grinning.
Axton buried his face in his hands.
I paced myself while reading this. I didn’t want to miss a silly, romantic, meaningful word, and I wanted to make it last as long as possible.
This book did have a few typos, but they didn’t slow me down. Just be aware.
Also, during one of the larger, fast-paced action scenes, I had a bit of trouble following where all of the characters were and what they were doing – almost like missing or having one too many limbs doing this and that.
The baddy is a little predictable and seemingly unstoppable but he’s got his own issues and we do get to see a bit of that, especially in his interactions with Axton.
Things I love about this story, in case it wasn’t obvious yet:
• This is not just a romance, but a story about their romance, that’s how it feels.
• No false hesitations are foisted upon these two, they work hard at not shying away from emotion. They may want to sometimes but they admit instead of run, know instead of guess.
• This is not at all your typical werewolf story. It’s about two people, one of whom just happens to be a were, but he’s had his own issues and difficulties in life. He’s not perfect, not invincible.
• Axton and Leander are both funny in their own unique ways, which made it so easy for me to picture them during any one of their animated discussions.
• They work through things, even when they vehemently disagree. Gee, hmm, you mean like adults? Yes, like adults.
Things I love about Wayne’s writing:
• Superbly entertaining
• Unbridled… yep, you guessed it, joy
• Smart dialogue
• Shy and bold all at once
• Emotionally driven physical descriptions
The end… the end!! I can’t even. Want to know why? Because it’s not the end, there is a third book coming. This means all will be right with the world once again. This is the true beginning! (Right??! Ms. Wayne???!!)
I’m so very happy that I took a chance on Winter Wolf, recommended by a friend, and overjoyed that I’ve now gotten to read City Wolf. Axton and Leander, you both have places in my heart. I’ll risk it being bruised for you.
I was a mere 2% into this book and I said: I’m already saying awwwww, I’ve really missed Axton and Leander from Winter Wolf and, wait for it, I’m actually going to use the word adorable.
The tone of City Wolf is different than that of Winter Wolf, the opener in this series. It’s because the personalities of both Axton and Leander are front and center. Axton can’t pretend he’s a mystery to Leander anymore, and Leander can’t hold back his energetic humor in an attempt to hide his true feelings. These two are in it for the long haul.
Firsts. Axton and Leander both are checking off several of those boxes under the relationship category. These all make for amusing revelations and sweet conversations. Their directness and honesty with each other in most things are refreshing and help propel the story forward.
Lest there be an ounce of doubt, this is seriously romantic. Lest there be any concern, this is unrelentingly hot. Lest there be any worry, this is such a wonderfully fun read. I could barely keep the grin off of my face – I stopped trying – as Ax and Lee navigate relationshiplandia, poking fun at themselves as much as each other.
About a quarter of the way through and I already felt like I had been given a full story in the best way. Still so many pages of Axton and Leander to sop up like a freshly made oatmeal biscuit drowning in mouthwatering melted buttah. Buttah, I tells ya!
There is joy in Wayne’s writing. Joy. In the writing. It’s scrawled all over like the walls of a mile-long cave painting filled with scenes of dancing, eating and sexing. It grabbed my hand, this writing, and I just as joyfully skipped along the pages with it. Joy.
The supporting characters are used as touchstones, avenues of realization for both Axton and Leander. Axton starts to learn, finally, how it feels to truly have a family, a family that has chosen you and will back you up no matter what. Leander comes to understand himself better than ever before, especially when it comes to Axton, to loving him.
Christina and Leander exchanged looks.
“A blusher,” she said.
“I know,” he said, grinning.
Axton buried his face in his hands.
I paced myself while reading this. I didn’t want to miss a silly, romantic, meaningful word, and I wanted to make it last as long as possible.
This book did have a few typos, but they didn’t slow me down. Just be aware.
Also, during one of the larger, fast-paced action scenes, I had a bit of trouble following where all of the characters were and what they were doing – almost like missing or having one too many limbs doing this and that.
The baddy is a little predictable and seemingly unstoppable but he’s got his own issues and we do get to see a bit of that, especially in his interactions with Axton.
Things I love about this story, in case it wasn’t obvious yet:
• This is not just a romance, but a story about their romance, that’s how it feels.
• No false hesitations are foisted upon these two, they work hard at not shying away from emotion. They may want to sometimes but they admit instead of run, know instead of guess.
• This is not at all your typical werewolf story. It’s about two people, one of whom just happens to be a were, but he’s had his own issues and difficulties in life. He’s not perfect, not invincible.
• Axton and Leander are both funny in their own unique ways, which made it so easy for me to picture them during any one of their animated discussions.
• They work through things, even when they vehemently disagree. Gee, hmm, you mean like adults? Yes, like adults.
Things I love about Wayne’s writing:
• Superbly entertaining
• Unbridled… yep, you guessed it, joy
• Smart dialogue
• Shy and bold all at once
• Emotionally driven physical descriptions
The end… the end!! I can’t even. Want to know why? Because it’s not the end, there is a third book coming. This means all will be right with the world once again. This is the true beginning! (Right??! Ms. Wayne???!!)
I’m so very happy that I took a chance on Winter Wolf, recommended by a friend, and overjoyed that I’ve now gotten to read City Wolf. Axton and Leander, you both have places in my heart. I’ll risk it being bruised for you.
February 18, 2014
So, I just finished writing a gushing review for the first book of the series, and I really don't want to repeat myself so I'll cut to the chase here.
This is a completely different book. Axton visits Leander in LA, after months of staying apart and trying to get it together to leave the wilderness for a while, and things take a huge turn. At this point, we already know what Axton the wolf is like, what he needs, and what being in his animal form is to him. In this book, we learn what Axton goes through when faced with the limitations of not being able to roam free in the woods, but basically being holed up in Leander's apartment with the occasional camp-out in the desert. Their relationship is growing, there's a lot more
The most amazing thing is how the themes of stretching your personal boundaries and sacrifice are prominent in this book. The feelings Axton and Leander have for each other are not skewed by stereotypical shifter bonding rituals. They could apply to any contemporary novel couple. And that's what makes this relevent, and authentic. It is paranormal, technically, but then it's not. Axton is one of the most real fictional characters I have read. He turns into a wolf, and there are wolfy things going on, but the whole thing is just sooo...real. I could see it happening. And the ending. Oh my god. I was crushed! I wanted to yell, and scream, and throw a temper tantrum. And...now I have to wait.
I am totally recommending. It's a slam dunk.
September 8, 2016
3.5 stars. Sequel to one of my favourite shifter romances in 2013. City Wolf takes up exactly where Winter Wolf left off. Axton is nervously making plans to travel to the city to visit Leander. The first 50% of the book is like a honeymoon period where Axton and Leander live together in LA. Nothing much happens. Axton remains adorably skittish and Leander is the perfect boyfriend. We get to know Lee a lot better in this volume as we meet his family and friends and see what he's like away from the woods. I thought the city wolf of the title referred to Axton living in LA but as the story progresses Leander's protectiveness and community spirit make you realise that in fact it refers to him.
The intimacy between the two heroes is arousing and very romantic. They tend to wax poetic in their thoughts and declarations to each other which was totally swoon-worthy except for right at the beginning where Lee's quotes of love to Axton felt a little awkward. They have that tragic Montague/Capulet-forbidden-love vibe going on and inevitably problems arise when someone from Axton's past intrudes on their bliss and threatens their security.
The ending is shocking and sad and OMG Axton, How. Could. You! I thought the wait for book 2 was hard but the time between now and book 3 is going to be a thousand times worse. There are a small handful of typos but not enough to distract me from reading. Not as good as Winter Wolf, partly because it misses the evocative setting as that first novel, but still very enjoyable.
The intimacy between the two heroes is arousing and very romantic. They tend to wax poetic in their thoughts and declarations to each other which was totally swoon-worthy except for right at the beginning where Lee's quotes of love to Axton felt a little awkward. They have that tragic Montague/Capulet-forbidden-love vibe going on and inevitably problems arise when someone from Axton's past intrudes on their bliss and threatens their security.
The ending is shocking and sad and OMG Axton, How. Could. You! I thought the wait for book 2 was hard but the time between now and book 3 is going to be a thousand times worse. There are a small handful of typos but not enough to distract me from reading. Not as good as Winter Wolf, partly because it misses the evocative setting as that first novel, but still very enjoyable.
March 2, 2014
This is such a beautiful love story and the deep bond that builds between Leander and Axton it so believable. But seriously, that ending nearly killed me! I was not prepared for it at all, I'm in shock.
I absolutely loved Winter Wolf and the amazingly slow, relaxed pace, and City Wolf had the same feel to it for the majority of the book. Although set in LA, it's all about the growing relationship between Leander and Axton. Leander introduces Axton to his life in LA, and Axton soon becomes part of the family. They can't bare to be without each other.
I now see I was lulled into a false sense of security because all of a sudden the angst kicked in and the last part of the book was full of tension. Talk about a cliffhanger, the final scene...
Can't wait for the third book!
I absolutely loved Winter Wolf and the amazingly slow, relaxed pace, and City Wolf had the same feel to it for the majority of the book. Although set in LA, it's all about the growing relationship between Leander and Axton. Leander introduces Axton to his life in LA, and Axton soon becomes part of the family. They can't bare to be without each other.
I now see I was lulled into a false sense of security because all of a sudden the angst kicked in and the last part of the book was full of tension. Talk about a cliffhanger, the final scene...
Can't wait for the third book!
September 29, 2022
Tags: part of a series, werewolf and human, Los Angeles, found family
JFC what even was this
Beautiful lovely story, two boyfriends living together and being wonderfully vulnerable and sentimental, with just the right amount of sarcasm so I wasn’t bored - and then.
Emotionally devastated.
I loved this book but fair warning - it had a bit of a cliffhanger / not a HFN like Book 1. Be prepared to want to continue immediately into Book 3.
JFC what even was this
Beautiful lovely story, two boyfriends living together and being wonderfully vulnerable and sentimental, with just the right amount of sarcasm so I wasn’t bored - and then.
Emotionally devastated.
I loved this book but fair warning - it had a bit of a cliffhanger / not a HFN like Book 1. Be prepared to want to continue immediately into Book 3.
January 19, 2024
Panting, happy start.
I’m yours, so your pack is mine.
Burning, howling end.
I’m yours, so your pack is mine.
Burning, howling end.
February 26, 2014
Aaaaaaarrrrrrrgh!
Loved Leander, excellent character development in this story. Axton I could kick until I got tired. Gawwwd! Talk about wishy-washy! His character did not change for the best here. Lovely ladies making up Leander's family, glad to see some interesting female characters in an M/M book. Dana is a bit too bad-guy caricature. And I hate the ending!
Had to take off a star because there's a plague of spelling and homophone errors. Since when is "among" spelled "amoung?" Sadly, I am picky enough for such unimportant stuff to make me do a double-take, which takes me out of the story.
Still, I am now resigned to waiting, NOT patiently, for the 3rd (and I hope final) installment. What we've been teased with throughout book 2 better happen in book 3. Just sayin...
Loved Leander, excellent character development in this story. Axton I could kick until I got tired. Gawwwd! Talk about wishy-washy! His character did not change for the best here. Lovely ladies making up Leander's family, glad to see some interesting female characters in an M/M book. Dana is a bit too bad-guy caricature. And I hate the ending!
Had to take off a star because there's a plague of spelling and homophone errors. Since when is "among" spelled "amoung?" Sadly, I am picky enough for such unimportant stuff to make me do a double-take, which takes me out of the story.
Still, I am now resigned to waiting, NOT patiently, for the 3rd (and I hope final) installment. What we've been teased with throughout book 2 better happen in book 3. Just sayin...
October 17, 2021
4.5 stars. I am sat here, sobbing at that ending. Oh my god, I'm so glad I'm late to the party here and don't have to wait for the next book. This romance started life as an elegy in longing, but this book was achingly sweet and romantic. Most of it was Axton and Leander exploring their relationship alone, together in California and I loved it. It gets plotty and dramatic in the last quarter or so and let me tell you, it was devastating. If I don't get my happy ending in book 3, I am starting a riot.
October 22, 2022
The one with the cliffhanger. The one that broke my heart.
Reviewing the series in full under #3.
Reviewing the series in full under #3.
August 11, 2016
I loved the first book; it was unique and different. I think most people who loved it too will be able to enjoy this one. And I appreciate the author wrote a sequel. Unfortunately, this kind of dissolved into a hot mess for me, and I finally gave up after the bizarre screaming match in which two grown men reverted to high school teenage girls. I officially stopped at 60%, and then skimmed all the way to the ending. None of the new side characters interested me, and I missed the magic of the first book. A little sad, but likely this is just my problem, and I'm sure you will enjoy this book more.
August 30, 2020
The second volume in the Axton & Leander series was interesting and puzzling in equal measures.
I continue to love the two main characters - and in this book Leander, in his natural, urban element has the space to become a more rounded and interesting character than he was in Winter Wolf.
Axton, removed from his forests and faced by an unusual amount of social interactions, starts adapting to a new style of life until his ex boyfriend, Dana, appears on the scene.
The secondary characters, from Christina to Sarah, provide some nice relief to the tension building amongst Axton, Leander and Dana.
There are parts of this novel which I really adored - the quiet moments, the way Ax and Lee try to understand each other's world and make their relationship work, the more passionate moments between them, the irony. There are also, however, parts that I didn't consider really necessary, such as long diversions, side scenes that don't add much to the main story.
I think a more stringent editing process would have been beneficial to the overall impact of the novel.
Despite this, the cliffhanger ending the volume is heartbreaking and I'll be jumping straight into the final instalment of the series.
A 3.5 rounded to 4 stars because Axton and Leander are lovely characters and it'd be impossible to not root for them
I continue to love the two main characters - and in this book Leander, in his natural, urban element has the space to become a more rounded and interesting character than he was in Winter Wolf.
Axton, removed from his forests and faced by an unusual amount of social interactions, starts adapting to a new style of life until his ex boyfriend, Dana, appears on the scene.
The secondary characters, from Christina to Sarah, provide some nice relief to the tension building amongst Axton, Leander and Dana.
There are parts of this novel which I really adored - the quiet moments, the way Ax and Lee try to understand each other's world and make their relationship work, the more passionate moments between them, the irony. There are also, however, parts that I didn't consider really necessary, such as long diversions, side scenes that don't add much to the main story.
I think a more stringent editing process would have been beneficial to the overall impact of the novel.
Despite this, the cliffhanger ending the volume is heartbreaking and I'll be jumping straight into the final instalment of the series.
A 3.5 rounded to 4 stars because Axton and Leander are lovely characters and it'd be impossible to not root for them
June 4, 2025
Everything I wanted and more
Except for that ending
Genuinely wtf😭
Except for that ending
Genuinely wtf😭
October 30, 2022
I hate Cliffhangers! It didn’t have the magic of the first one but I still really loved it. Off to read the next one cause I need my HEA
July 22, 2025
(3.5/5) For some reason, I have no idea what to say. Everything was so unexpected and at the same time not. And of course, like probably everyone else who has read this book, I loved and hated the ending.
As with the first book, the writing style threw me for a loop. The little light-hearted scenes are nice, but seem a bit pointless and the big important scenes are all at once and kind of overwhelming. At least I finally feel like I know the characters and at least the relationship has taken shape and is, frankly, seriously adorable.
I'm not quite sure if I'm going to fall in love with this series just yet, but it doesn't really matter. I'm still enjoying myself quite a bit, and since the ending was so damn open-ended, I just really need to get to the third instalment now.
As with the first book, the writing style threw me for a loop. The little light-hearted scenes are nice, but seem a bit pointless and the big important scenes are all at once and kind of overwhelming. At least I finally feel like I know the characters and at least the relationship has taken shape and is, frankly, seriously adorable.
I'm not quite sure if I'm going to fall in love with this series just yet, but it doesn't really matter. I'm still enjoying myself quite a bit, and since the ending was so damn open-ended, I just really need to get to the third instalment now.
February 12, 2015
Mother of everything!!!!
That ending???? Gah! I feel sorry for people who read this book last year and had to wait for book 3! If this really releases on Saturday! Sunday is going to be devoted to book 3
Mother of all cliffhangers! My God
Mare~ Slitread
That ending???? Gah! I feel sorry for people who read this book last year and had to wait for book 3! If this really releases on Saturday! Sunday is going to be devoted to book 3
Mother of all cliffhangers! My God
Mare~ Slitread
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