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Bayou Bear Chronicles #2
Hearten
Determined to be the best Beta he can, Rev has made sure to keep his distance from Martha, the female he knows to be his mate. He’s not sure he even knows how to be a decent mate to her.
All that changes when the Alpha and the Coeur conspire to make sure that Martha and Rev both face what they’ve known to be true for so long.
One look is all it takes, but there is so much more to being a mated couple than facing the claim.
Martha is not ready to give up anything in her life, not even to make room for him.
Rev is ready, but only as long as his female bends her life to fit into his.
Pushing and pulling, each one will have to decide which is more important—the life they’ve built, or the one they could have together.
All that changes when the Alpha and the Coeur conspire to make sure that Martha and Rev both face what they’ve known to be true for so long.
One look is all it takes, but there is so much more to being a mated couple than facing the claim.
Martha is not ready to give up anything in her life, not even to make room for him.
Rev is ready, but only as long as his female bends her life to fit into his.
Pushing and pulling, each one will have to decide which is more important—the life they’ve built, or the one they could have together.
Unknown Binding
First published July 18, 2014
400 people are currently reading
222 people want to read
About the author
Lila Felix
62 books857 followersLila Felix is full of antics and stories. She refused to go to Kindergarten after the teacher made her take a nap on the first day of school. She staged her first protest in middle school. She almost flunked out of her first semester at Pepperdine University because she was enthralled with their library and frequently was locked in. Now her husband and three children have to put up with her rebel nature in Louisiana where her days are filled with cypress trees, crawfish, and of course her books and writing. She writes about the ordinary people who fall extraordinarily in wild, true love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
July 18, 2014
There’s no desire greater in me than to have you be content. Your needs before mine. Your heart with mine. Your happiness above mine. Your life tied to mine for all eternity. The creed is as old as our clan.
**
From the moment that Martha was a wee little cub, it was instilled in her that the mate claim was a beautiful moment. A time of love and devotion. It was a moment that time stood still and everyone and everything fell away except you and your mate. But that isn't what she got. Her mate claim brought about doubts and fears. Even though Rev is everything she could ever want in a mate...their differences may very well break their bond. Will she be able to open up to him and let him in? Did the Creator have any idea what He was thinking when he paired these two souls together?
**
“Don’t ever be scared of me. They look at me like I’m a rogue bear who has been in the wild too long. I can take it from anyone but you.”
“You don’t even know me,” I shrunk back, my human side boring down on my bear, forcing her to be quiet for once.
“It doesn’t matter. I have a lifetime to get to know you. What matters is—you’re my mate—made by the Creator just for me. All the rest is just details.”
**
I love this world, I love this world, I abso-frickin-lutely love this world. Probably one of my most favorites by Felix, I was so stinkin’ excited to be back with all the characters I came to know and love in BURDEN. In HEARTEN we move on to Rev and Martha's story. Unlike Echo who never knew what a mate claim was and had to find out the hard way, Martha was all too prepared. Did that make it any easier for her? Absolutely not. Martha fought internally with her bear and her human side. This just wasn't something she'd be able to accept at face value. And this fight she endured made the story. We get to watch her work through her thoughts and emotions and see if this is something that she will be able to accept before it became too late and she loses Rev forever. It tore at me throughout the book.
**
Lowering my face at the same time I tipped her chin upward, I asked her with a whisper. “Say you’re mine.”
Her throat worked like it was manufacturing the words. “Rev, I’m yours.”
**
Throughout the entire story her fans will become acquainted with the romance we all know Felix has in her to write, but with an extra kick! Oh yes...Felix gets a little more saucier in this one. Her bears are frisker than ever and yet Felix still maintains that well written clean romance we all know and love. When ever asked if I can recommend a book that is real and full of romance...Felix is the first name off my lips and I never hesitate for even a second.
HEARTEN has a superb storyline that calls to its readers...a more intense side of the characters we met in the beginning...and a romance that will make any reader weak in the knees. This book is fabulous and I cannot wait for more. 5 Hurry and Give Me More Stars!
**
From the moment that Martha was a wee little cub, it was instilled in her that the mate claim was a beautiful moment. A time of love and devotion. It was a moment that time stood still and everyone and everything fell away except you and your mate. But that isn't what she got. Her mate claim brought about doubts and fears. Even though Rev is everything she could ever want in a mate...their differences may very well break their bond. Will she be able to open up to him and let him in? Did the Creator have any idea what He was thinking when he paired these two souls together?
**
“Don’t ever be scared of me. They look at me like I’m a rogue bear who has been in the wild too long. I can take it from anyone but you.”
“You don’t even know me,” I shrunk back, my human side boring down on my bear, forcing her to be quiet for once.
“It doesn’t matter. I have a lifetime to get to know you. What matters is—you’re my mate—made by the Creator just for me. All the rest is just details.”
**
I love this world, I love this world, I abso-frickin-lutely love this world. Probably one of my most favorites by Felix, I was so stinkin’ excited to be back with all the characters I came to know and love in BURDEN. In HEARTEN we move on to Rev and Martha's story. Unlike Echo who never knew what a mate claim was and had to find out the hard way, Martha was all too prepared. Did that make it any easier for her? Absolutely not. Martha fought internally with her bear and her human side. This just wasn't something she'd be able to accept at face value. And this fight she endured made the story. We get to watch her work through her thoughts and emotions and see if this is something that she will be able to accept before it became too late and she loses Rev forever. It tore at me throughout the book.
**
Lowering my face at the same time I tipped her chin upward, I asked her with a whisper. “Say you’re mine.”
Her throat worked like it was manufacturing the words. “Rev, I’m yours.”
**
Throughout the entire story her fans will become acquainted with the romance we all know Felix has in her to write, but with an extra kick! Oh yes...Felix gets a little more saucier in this one. Her bears are frisker than ever and yet Felix still maintains that well written clean romance we all know and love. When ever asked if I can recommend a book that is real and full of romance...Felix is the first name off my lips and I never hesitate for even a second.
HEARTEN has a superb storyline that calls to its readers...a more intense side of the characters we met in the beginning...and a romance that will make any reader weak in the knees. This book is fabulous and I cannot wait for more. 5 Hurry and Give Me More Stars!
June 5, 2016
Hearten is One of the most beautifully crafted love stories I've ever read emotional wickedly funny full of epic adventure sassy sweet banter and delicious swoon worthy romance!!! I devoured it in one night nothing could tear me away The Bayou Bear Chronicles are dangerously addictive chocolate in book form I can't get enough of this series! U will totally fall in love with Rev & Martha the chemistry between them absolutely Sizzles!
2 of my fave quotes
"Can I kiss you love? Her eyes widened as she nodded. Creator let me make this perfect for her perfect for us Lowering my face at the same time I tipped her chin upward I commanded her with a whisper "Say your mine" Rev
"You work at night sometimes Oh my dear Creator above. How did he know that? Has he been stalking me? Oh I've always wanted a stalker. Stalkers are Hot" Martha
Lila Felix gives us another gorgeous 5 star read!!! I'm dying for book 3 Engraven to come out in paperback!!!
2 of my fave quotes
"Can I kiss you love? Her eyes widened as she nodded. Creator let me make this perfect for her perfect for us Lowering my face at the same time I tipped her chin upward I commanded her with a whisper "Say your mine" Rev
"You work at night sometimes Oh my dear Creator above. How did he know that? Has he been stalking me? Oh I've always wanted a stalker. Stalkers are Hot" Martha
Lila Felix gives us another gorgeous 5 star read!!! I'm dying for book 3 Engraven to come out in paperback!!!
July 20, 2014
Hearten is the sequel to Burden in the Bayou Bear Chronicles. The Main characters are Rev and Martha who are the besties of the Alpha male and female in their bear shifter clan ( they are the Betas of the clan). I absolutely loved this story. There was a lot of description of the actual shifting they make from human for into black bears. I loved the romance between Rev and Martha. It was very realistic in the sense that each one had their doubts about their love and their relationship, which anyone in a relationship can understand. This is the kind of series and story that sticks with you forever. I love the alternating POV and I love Lila's style of writing. It makes me feel like I am right there with them, as part of their clan!!
January 30, 2016
Beautifully Written
Hearten is the second book in the Bayou Bear Chronicles. I absolutely love this book. This is the story Rev and Martha. Although they have a rocky start to this relationship it is beautiful. Lila is an amazing story teller. She has this uncertainty ability to make you feel like you are right there is the middle of the Louisiana swamp. If think you don't usually like or read shifter books, give this series a try. It's awesome. So get busy, the bears and swamp await.
Hearten is the second book in the Bayou Bear Chronicles. I absolutely love this book. This is the story Rev and Martha. Although they have a rocky start to this relationship it is beautiful. Lila is an amazing story teller. She has this uncertainty ability to make you feel like you are right there is the middle of the Louisiana swamp. If think you don't usually like or read shifter books, give this series a try. It's awesome. So get busy, the bears and swamp await.
May 15, 2020
Hearten
Following from Burden the writing did not improve. It is really the biggest issue this book has in my eyes. I struggled to finish. It really needs some editing. And also it would benefit with some formating. It just reads like a draft sometimes.
I love the characters. Rev and Martha are so cute together, but I'm not a big fan of him giving in so much. That last bit of him steping down kinda ruined the whole thing. The story itself was cute and you could tell the characters went through some anguish, but I didn't feel it coming of the page.
Following from Burden the writing did not improve. It is really the biggest issue this book has in my eyes. I struggled to finish. It really needs some editing. And also it would benefit with some formating. It just reads like a draft sometimes.
I love the characters. Rev and Martha are so cute together, but I'm not a big fan of him giving in so much. That last bit of him steping down kinda ruined the whole thing. The story itself was cute and you could tell the characters went through some anguish, but I didn't feel it coming of the page.
August 1, 2014
Hearten is the second book in Lila Felix's Bayou Bear Chronicles. I fell in love with this series in the first paragraph of the first book. Hearten tells the story of Rev and Martha and OMG do they sizzle! I loved the tension and angst between the two characters. Their passion was sweet and undeniable.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves paranormal/shifter romance or would like to give it a try! It's an amazing series and book two did not disappoint!
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves paranormal/shifter romance or would like to give it a try! It's an amazing series and book two did not disappoint!
July 24, 2014
love the book!!
love the characters!!!!
love the story!!!!
only.....
RIVER!!!
image:
can not wait for the next book!!!
love the characters!!!!
love the story!!!!
only.....
RIVER!!!
image:
can not wait for the next book!!!
January 18, 2022
This was a LOT better then the first one. While I like the storyline of the first one more, I felt it dragged on way too much that it ruin the book. There was more of a balance between the internal and external struggles that both Rev and Martha faced that made the book flow very well. That being said, this book is not without its fault.
When Rev and Martha was introduced in the first book, they seemed much older, more like they were in their late 20s. However it seems Martha is only 22 while Rev is 27. Normally age isn't an issue but Martha felt more mature in the first book that her character in this one took some getting use to as it felt she did a complete 180.
It is explained in the book that it was a facade she showed and in reality she's really a stubborn brat (my words). She was hot then cold to Rev, her character was off putting. Rev did most of the concessions and I felt he deserved a better mate. When it came down to it, Rev wanted to belong as he felt like a "duty" most all his life and I felt Martha didn't really give him that. Other than Rev moving in with her, she didn't changed anything about her life. It was sad cause even when she was having her epiphany and realize all her materialistic possessions are nothing if she's lonely, she only reached out to Rev as it was about her and her feelings.
Overall, it was a fast and easy read. I just wish Martha wasn't so selfish and Rev got a better mate.
When Rev and Martha was introduced in the first book, they seemed much older, more like they were in their late 20s. However it seems Martha is only 22 while Rev is 27. Normally age isn't an issue but Martha felt more mature in the first book that her character in this one took some getting use to as it felt she did a complete 180.
It is explained in the book that it was a facade she showed and in reality she's really a stubborn brat (my words). She was hot then cold to Rev, her character was off putting. Rev did most of the concessions and I felt he deserved a better mate. When it came down to it, Rev wanted to belong as he felt like a "duty" most all his life and I felt Martha didn't really give him that. Other than Rev moving in with her, she didn't changed anything about her life. It was sad cause even when she was having her epiphany and realize all her materialistic possessions are nothing if she's lonely, she only reached out to Rev as it was about her and her feelings.
Overall, it was a fast and easy read. I just wish Martha wasn't so selfish and Rev got a better mate.
November 30, 2020
Not as good as the first but it was Okay. I love how the author describes what happens when their eyes meet for the first time. It’s so electric, i can almost feel it.
Rev and Martha were a cute couple but their story needed some work. Martha was hot and cold and her emotions were all over the place. I couldn’t understand her. I felt like Rev was the only one making compromises because of his desire to please her. But she was just doing what she wanted which, in my opinion, made her selfish and unreasonable.
Also this book had a lot more curse words than the first, which was not only unnecessary but also made it harder for me to enjoy. The language took away from the warmth of the story. I’ll still give book 3 a chance but only because I loved book 1.
Content: PG13 Clean, suggestive statements throughout (nothing explicit)
Language: 26 S words, 24 A words, 0 F words but it’s suggested 4 times.
Violence: Some bears get their throats slit, mention is made of some decapitated heads.
Rev and Martha were a cute couple but their story needed some work. Martha was hot and cold and her emotions were all over the place. I couldn’t understand her. I felt like Rev was the only one making compromises because of his desire to please her. But she was just doing what she wanted which, in my opinion, made her selfish and unreasonable.
Also this book had a lot more curse words than the first, which was not only unnecessary but also made it harder for me to enjoy. The language took away from the warmth of the story. I’ll still give book 3 a chance but only because I loved book 1.
Content: PG13 Clean, suggestive statements throughout (nothing explicit)
Language: 26 S words, 24 A words, 0 F words but it’s suggested 4 times.
Violence: Some bears get their throats slit, mention is made of some decapitated heads.
June 5, 2020
Could use more work.
The heroine was all over the place, over emotional and controlling. The hero was at first dominant, but then changed his whole being to be her manipulation. Meanwhile she suddenly changed her colors and suddenly 'loved' him as long as he conformed to her lifestyle, and he completely went with it. It seemed like a totally unhealthy relationship. The first book of the series was much better, although social cues were definitely missing. I will try book three, because I still think there could be potential, but a book should have some better editing, not such random commas and grammar if there is an editor. Artistic allowance only goes so far before sentences don't make sense. Here I go onto book three...make or break. It still has to be better than the overdone teen werewolf series with equally unhealthy relationships, right? One can only hope. ;)
The heroine was all over the place, over emotional and controlling. The hero was at first dominant, but then changed his whole being to be her manipulation. Meanwhile she suddenly changed her colors and suddenly 'loved' him as long as he conformed to her lifestyle, and he completely went with it. It seemed like a totally unhealthy relationship. The first book of the series was much better, although social cues were definitely missing. I will try book three, because I still think there could be potential, but a book should have some better editing, not such random commas and grammar if there is an editor. Artistic allowance only goes so far before sentences don't make sense. Here I go onto book three...make or break. It still has to be better than the overdone teen werewolf series with equally unhealthy relationships, right? One can only hope. ;)
February 18, 2018
A shifter romance with some grit-A great romance for newly engaged or the starry eyed Honeymooner.
The independent with some sass and the Alpha mates wife best friend. So was perfect s good ear, good listener and a independent n self sufficient giving member of the clan. Rev the clan historians and hermit has been pulled into the clan a Beta leader for the Alpha. No more being removed. A trick and Martha n Rev meet and can no longer fight their need to be one. The best part realizing you selfness actual hurts others and your stringer being truthful and standing as one. Great for the rocking challenges new relationship coming together or riding the challenges life throws at you. Not to mention humor the gift that keeps giving. Violence 2, sex1 just steamy kisses so clean romance.
More reviews check out my blog: my2centsbookreviews.com
The independent with some sass and the Alpha mates wife best friend. So was perfect s good ear, good listener and a independent n self sufficient giving member of the clan. Rev the clan historians and hermit has been pulled into the clan a Beta leader for the Alpha. No more being removed. A trick and Martha n Rev meet and can no longer fight their need to be one. The best part realizing you selfness actual hurts others and your stringer being truthful and standing as one. Great for the rocking challenges new relationship coming together or riding the challenges life throws at you. Not to mention humor the gift that keeps giving. Violence 2, sex1 just steamy kisses so clean romance.
More reviews check out my blog: my2centsbookreviews.com
November 21, 2020
Bears
I really enjoyed how this book was written, how both Rev and Martha has to grow into their role not only as a matted pair but the Beta pair. Rev is a loner, and we get to learn more about his childhood and his character, I fell more in love with his quiet nature. Martha is not what she appears to be, she has a fantasy of mating that she must get past in order to accept what the creator has designed for her. There is also loss in this book.
I really enjoyed how this book was written, how both Rev and Martha has to grow into their role not only as a matted pair but the Beta pair. Rev is a loner, and we get to learn more about his childhood and his character, I fell more in love with his quiet nature. Martha is not what she appears to be, she has a fantasy of mating that she must get past in order to accept what the creator has designed for her. There is also loss in this book.
May 5, 2020
Enjoyable.
I am really enjoying this series. Hawke and Echo are trying to settle in as Alphas. Their Beta Rev meets his match in Martha. Can they handle being together and trouble from the Grizzlies who had abused Echo?
I am really enjoying this series. Hawke and Echo are trying to settle in as Alphas. Their Beta Rev meets his match in Martha. Can they handle being together and trouble from the Grizzlies who had abused Echo?
August 28, 2020
This was a sweet romance for Rev and Martha, but so many twists and turns, back and forth until we finally see a HEA. Nice story, great characters, good plot, lots of angst, some sadness, and cute moments along with great banter. Pg13 but sweet romantic moments. Recommend
July 30, 2017
Martha
Book 2 - Rev & Martha. Martha is a writer and wants a mate but is Rev what the Creator sent. Interesting 2nd book and love readymade about these bears.
Book 2 - Rev & Martha. Martha is a writer and wants a mate but is Rev what the Creator sent. Interesting 2nd book and love readymade about these bears.
January 23, 2019
Not as good as the first in the series, but sweet
This one falls far more into stereotyping, but moves the greater story along. A bit pushing of particular morals, too.
This one falls far more into stereotyping, but moves the greater story along. A bit pushing of particular morals, too.
May 11, 2019
This story was good but I skipped over some parts mainly because they got too wordy with their inner thoughts and confessions of love.
January 24, 2021
Great read
This is the second book of the series and is a super good book. I love how the author leaves the sex to the readers imagination.
This is the second book of the series and is a super good book. I love how the author leaves the sex to the readers imagination.
April 28, 2021
Great Book
Great book about learning to except those you love for who they are. Can’t wait to read the next one.
Great book about learning to except those you love for who they are. Can’t wait to read the next one.
May 3, 2022
Awesome
Great story loved the characters and I hope the next book is just as good loved rev so mysterious! 😊
Great story loved the characters and I hope the next book is just as good loved rev so mysterious! 😊
May 13, 2021
Sweet story. It doesn’t offer anything new to the shifter genre but if you need a quick fix of a tail with a devoted man and lovable heroine, it does the trick.
July 26, 2014
**Hearten**
Hearten draws us further into the world of a clan of bear shifters. Once again, Lila Felix ensnares her readers with strong, complex and endearing characters. This story revolves around Rev and Martha; and despite their obvious differences they are fated mates.
Rev grew up isolated from much of his clan. He is a hard worker and the clan’s historian. He is a traditionalist in regards to clan rituals and relationships. He was chosen by Hawke, the Alpha, as beta to the clan and he takes his duties seriously. Rev knew from the moment he saw Martha that she was his mate, yet he did not act to make the mate connection out of fear. He believes that Martha deserves a mate that will cherish and put her happiness above everything else. Being beta to his clan means he must guide and protect his Alpha and the Coeur, even if it leads to his death. Is that fair to an independent spirit like Martha?
Martha is a strong, independent, and generous clan member. She helps anyone in need both with emotional and financial needs. She is used to living on her own terms, but she is a romantic deep down in her soul. She has a long fantasized about the moment of her mate connection, which is usually a very private and intimate moment. Through some meddling from her friend Echo, that moment is made very public. Martha struggles from that point on because her mate connection did not live up to her fantasy. She realizes that Rev is very different from her and his simple life is far from the existence she is used to living. She is also stifled by fear; the fear that she will lose all her independence and comfort in order to please her mate. Is her connection to Rev, her mate, strong enough to make her push through that fear?
Rev surprised me in this book. He is so brutally honest and such a rational and tradition entrenched being, that I did not know his heart would bare such great love and loyalty to his mate. Both Rev and Martha stumble while trying to figure out their relationship. The journey into their love story is heart wrenching and beautiful.
Lila Felix has delivered another masterpiece of soul and romance. Don’t hesitate to get lost in Hearten’s vivid backdrop of bear shifters, love and family. Another great love story with a hint of adventure has been born. I highly recommend Hearten and give it 5 stars. Great characters, great story, great plot development, great overall writing! Looking forward to the next book in the Bayou Bear Chronicle Series!
*I was gifted a copy of Hearten by the author for an honest review. I loved this book so much that I ended up purchasing a copy*
Hearten draws us further into the world of a clan of bear shifters. Once again, Lila Felix ensnares her readers with strong, complex and endearing characters. This story revolves around Rev and Martha; and despite their obvious differences they are fated mates.
Rev grew up isolated from much of his clan. He is a hard worker and the clan’s historian. He is a traditionalist in regards to clan rituals and relationships. He was chosen by Hawke, the Alpha, as beta to the clan and he takes his duties seriously. Rev knew from the moment he saw Martha that she was his mate, yet he did not act to make the mate connection out of fear. He believes that Martha deserves a mate that will cherish and put her happiness above everything else. Being beta to his clan means he must guide and protect his Alpha and the Coeur, even if it leads to his death. Is that fair to an independent spirit like Martha?
Martha is a strong, independent, and generous clan member. She helps anyone in need both with emotional and financial needs. She is used to living on her own terms, but she is a romantic deep down in her soul. She has a long fantasized about the moment of her mate connection, which is usually a very private and intimate moment. Through some meddling from her friend Echo, that moment is made very public. Martha struggles from that point on because her mate connection did not live up to her fantasy. She realizes that Rev is very different from her and his simple life is far from the existence she is used to living. She is also stifled by fear; the fear that she will lose all her independence and comfort in order to please her mate. Is her connection to Rev, her mate, strong enough to make her push through that fear?
Rev surprised me in this book. He is so brutally honest and such a rational and tradition entrenched being, that I did not know his heart would bare such great love and loyalty to his mate. Both Rev and Martha stumble while trying to figure out their relationship. The journey into their love story is heart wrenching and beautiful.
Lila Felix has delivered another masterpiece of soul and romance. Don’t hesitate to get lost in Hearten’s vivid backdrop of bear shifters, love and family. Another great love story with a hint of adventure has been born. I highly recommend Hearten and give it 5 stars. Great characters, great story, great plot development, great overall writing! Looking forward to the next book in the Bayou Bear Chronicle Series!
*I was gifted a copy of Hearten by the author for an honest review. I loved this book so much that I ended up purchasing a copy*
July 22, 2014
I'm not lying or being over dramatic when I tell y'all I had a horrible time getting this review out!!! I loved this book so very much, I was honestly afraid I'd never give it the justice it truly deserves!! There was so much to love about this book!! The bond between each character, the drive these people had to protect those they love the most and of course the all consuming romance!! *Sigh* Like the true artist she is, Lila had no problems mixing all of these elements into perfection I have come to expect out of her.
Hearten brings us back to the powerfully fierce yet extraordinary bear clan we came to love in Lila's first book Burden. I always praise Lila for the gift of bringing us back to visit her characters. It feels like you're visiting old friends and this book was no different. Hearten now focuses on Rev *sigh* and the sweet loving Martha. These two are the best friends of the main characters from Burden.
One of my favorite moments in this book is when these two discovered they were indeed mates. I must interject here that Rev knew long before Martha that they were mates and would watch Martha without her being aware of it. I know that sounds creepy, but come on y'all it's Lila!!! She takes Rev's uncomfortable "stalking" and makes it funny. Back to what I was saying...The moment two bears realize they are mated, is a private intimate even between the two of them. For Martha and Rev, it happened in front of most of the clan!!! Not that these two noticed! The moment Martha looked into Rev's eyes met, time ceased to exist and it was just the two of them *sigh*
Now just because these two are mates and meant to be, doesn't mean they were ready to run off into the sunset together. They don't know each other very well and so they had to learn to trust each other and in the process, fall in love. This to me, made the book more realistic and even more interesting. I love that Lila always creates characters that are far from perfect ( yet loveable) but learn to evolve and heal not for the person they love but because of them!! It's such a powerful reminder of the power of love and personal strength. This is yet again one of those stories that will grab you from the moment you begin and hold you tight until the end. Martha and Rev's romance will leave you feeling fulfilled, renewed and wanting to go back for more!!
Hearten brings us back to the powerfully fierce yet extraordinary bear clan we came to love in Lila's first book Burden. I always praise Lila for the gift of bringing us back to visit her characters. It feels like you're visiting old friends and this book was no different. Hearten now focuses on Rev *sigh* and the sweet loving Martha. These two are the best friends of the main characters from Burden.
One of my favorite moments in this book is when these two discovered they were indeed mates. I must interject here that Rev knew long before Martha that they were mates and would watch Martha without her being aware of it. I know that sounds creepy, but come on y'all it's Lila!!! She takes Rev's uncomfortable "stalking" and makes it funny. Back to what I was saying...The moment two bears realize they are mated, is a private intimate even between the two of them. For Martha and Rev, it happened in front of most of the clan!!! Not that these two noticed! The moment Martha looked into Rev's eyes met, time ceased to exist and it was just the two of them *sigh*
Now just because these two are mates and meant to be, doesn't mean they were ready to run off into the sunset together. They don't know each other very well and so they had to learn to trust each other and in the process, fall in love. This to me, made the book more realistic and even more interesting. I love that Lila always creates characters that are far from perfect ( yet loveable) but learn to evolve and heal not for the person they love but because of them!! It's such a powerful reminder of the power of love and personal strength. This is yet again one of those stories that will grab you from the moment you begin and hold you tight until the end. Martha and Rev's romance will leave you feeling fulfilled, renewed and wanting to go back for more!!
July 25, 2014
Hearten
Hearten will steal your heart. I know because it stole mine.
This is the first paranormal romance I have read by Lila Felix and I couldn’t put it down. The humor, romance, tension between characters and the awkwardness of new love made for an amazing read. You will not want to be it down and honestly if there was ever a book worthy of a book hangover this is it. The romance you will see between Martha and Rev is tender and sweet but Lila Felix lets the awkward and the unsure moments shine through so that the romance is really is relatable. I think there are some books that tend to put what I would call a “Fabio esqe” edge to the romance or another way of saying it the romance seems so exaggerated that you don’t even finish the book because the story is so cheesy. Hearken is sweet and it really touches your heart. I can’t wait for the next book. If you want a fresh spin on paranormal and one that sincerely touches your heart without it being so far gone that it seems cheesy then this is the book for you. It also has adventure in it so the story is a wonderful mix of growth and love, in letting down walls and surrender a part of yourself to let that the one you love know you fully. You also see in this story that you aren’t really surrendering or losing yourself as much as gaining a greater fullness of yourself through the love of your mate. This story shows that sacrifice and putting someone else’s needs before your own is part of that mate bond.
One click and get your copy today. You’re only complaint when you come to the page that says “The End” because you will not want to story to end there because the characters just embrace your heart and don’t let go.
Hearten will steal your heart. I know because it stole mine.
This is the first paranormal romance I have read by Lila Felix and I couldn’t put it down. The humor, romance, tension between characters and the awkwardness of new love made for an amazing read. You will not want to be it down and honestly if there was ever a book worthy of a book hangover this is it. The romance you will see between Martha and Rev is tender and sweet but Lila Felix lets the awkward and the unsure moments shine through so that the romance is really is relatable. I think there are some books that tend to put what I would call a “Fabio esqe” edge to the romance or another way of saying it the romance seems so exaggerated that you don’t even finish the book because the story is so cheesy. Hearken is sweet and it really touches your heart. I can’t wait for the next book. If you want a fresh spin on paranormal and one that sincerely touches your heart without it being so far gone that it seems cheesy then this is the book for you. It also has adventure in it so the story is a wonderful mix of growth and love, in letting down walls and surrender a part of yourself to let that the one you love know you fully. You also see in this story that you aren’t really surrendering or losing yourself as much as gaining a greater fullness of yourself through the love of your mate. This story shows that sacrifice and putting someone else’s needs before your own is part of that mate bond.
One click and get your copy today. You’re only complaint when you come to the page that says “The End” because you will not want to story to end there because the characters just embrace your heart and don’t let go.
August 6, 2014
This Story Hearten follows the story of Rev and Martha, two very different personalities that learn to combine each others life into one together. The Mate claim was not something they didn't feel already before they looked into each others eyes, paying close attention to each other well before the claim happened. This mate claim didn't go without its problems of conflicting personalities and old traditions but in the end they knew what was important..
This story brings the characters from the first book in the series along as secondary characters to Rev and Martha. It is such a refreshing series for me. It brings rituals, traditions and new beginnings into the stress of the Grizzly Clan and what they want. Martha is a strong willed woman and has a hard time letting go of her strong will and Rev is his own person who has grown up on the outskirts of the clan but knows his traditions and history.
I Loved every word of this story and can't wait to see what Lila comes up with next in this series. LOVE RITUAL TRADITIONS AND THE GRIZZLY CLAN also LEARNING ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR MATE.
AMAZING JOB LILA
Keep the Black Bear Clan coming I can't wait for more!!!!
This story brings the characters from the first book in the series along as secondary characters to Rev and Martha. It is such a refreshing series for me. It brings rituals, traditions and new beginnings into the stress of the Grizzly Clan and what they want. Martha is a strong willed woman and has a hard time letting go of her strong will and Rev is his own person who has grown up on the outskirts of the clan but knows his traditions and history.
I Loved every word of this story and can't wait to see what Lila comes up with next in this series. LOVE RITUAL TRADITIONS AND THE GRIZZLY CLAN also LEARNING ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR MATE.
AMAZING JOB LILA
Keep the Black Bear Clan coming I can't wait for more!!!!
December 20, 2016
Book two of the Bayou Bear Chronicles. I really enjoyed this book. It was a fast read. The only downside was it seemed to end rather abruptly.
January 1, 2015
An okay read. This books was pretty much what I was expecting based on the first one in this series - great concept and cool characters but not enough of a storyline and deep connections to the characters to really make it a great book. I did enjoy seeing characters from the first book again and I'm glad I read Martha and Rev's story. I just wish it was written a bit better and that the storyline was more developed. One thing I did really like was how this was an insta-love story for paranormal reasons, but that didn't mean that everything was suddenly sunshine and rainbows for Martha and Rev. They had to learn to get along and accept each other's differences before they could really learn to love each other. Overall - a decent read but nothing amazing. I'd recommend this series if you're looking for a quick paranormal romance read to kill an hour or two.
August 1, 2014
***I was a beta-reader for Hearten*** (LUCKY ME!)
Lila Felix has long been one of my "go to" authors. I basically read anything and everything she writes. When she came out with a bear shifter book, I was a little scared to be honest! I'd never read shifter books at all. But in true Felix fashion, she changed my mind.
Hearten is the second book in Lila Felix's Bayou Bear Chronicles. I fell in love with this series in the first paragraph of the first book. Hearten tells the story of Rev and Martha and OMG do they sizzle! I loved the tension and angst between the two characters. Their passion was sweet and undeniable.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves paranormal/shifter romance or would like to give it a try! It's an amazing series and book two did not disappoint!
Lila Felix has long been one of my "go to" authors. I basically read anything and everything she writes. When she came out with a bear shifter book, I was a little scared to be honest! I'd never read shifter books at all. But in true Felix fashion, she changed my mind.
Hearten is the second book in Lila Felix's Bayou Bear Chronicles. I fell in love with this series in the first paragraph of the first book. Hearten tells the story of Rev and Martha and OMG do they sizzle! I loved the tension and angst between the two characters. Their passion was sweet and undeniable.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves paranormal/shifter romance or would like to give it a try! It's an amazing series and book two did not disappoint!
August 20, 2014
I had been wanting this book from the second I finished book one in this series. I LOVE Rev and was very disappointed to find out he did not end up with me. Seriously, I loved the love story between he and Martha. They were both faulty and at times I wanted to reach in my book and shake some sense into them as I saw them going them make silly choices. They really were made for each other and watching them combine their lives without giving up who they were was such a joy. Lila has really nailed the fated mate anticipation and emotions and does so in a way that is different enough to stand out from the crowd, but familiar enough to wrap you in their world. I can not wait for the next book! Maybe Rev will leave Martha for me in it ;) . Fair Warning : You will end up with a book hangover because this is not a book you will want to put down until you have read the very last page.
February 23, 2016
Driven story
This is a good story and good writing. The author develops the story well and doesn't beat around the bush with pushing the plot forward with events. That I liked a lot.
I personally didn't enjoy the constant God references and illusions of "it's just that way because of the Creator" notions, but to each their own. Personally, I would have enjoyed more of an explanation to events and the way that character is processing the "it's just that way" event. That way there would be more guesswork for the reader. More " I wonder why she thought that way" moments to discuss with other readers.
All in all it's a good book. Not a great book. Not a bad book. It's a nice read to distract the mind while not having to overthink character motives or undercurrents in the story.
This is a good story and good writing. The author develops the story well and doesn't beat around the bush with pushing the plot forward with events. That I liked a lot.
I personally didn't enjoy the constant God references and illusions of "it's just that way because of the Creator" notions, but to each their own. Personally, I would have enjoyed more of an explanation to events and the way that character is processing the "it's just that way" event. That way there would be more guesswork for the reader. More " I wonder why she thought that way" moments to discuss with other readers.
All in all it's a good book. Not a great book. Not a bad book. It's a nice read to distract the mind while not having to overthink character motives or undercurrents in the story.
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