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Carus #1
Shift Happens
Andrea McNelly's job as a government agent is not asking questions, but then a routine assignment turns into a botched assassination of a Master Vampire's human servant. Answers become a priority. Her search to discover the truth is riddled with obstacles, the largest being an oversized Werewolf who resembles a Norse god. Andy can't afford the distraction he offers, because if she fails, she faces eternal enslavement.
Wick's job is to monitor Andy, but he prefers more intimate activities, none of them G-Rated. His choices, however, are often not his own. His ability to help Andy is limited by his bond to the Master Vampire.
Facing many trials and challenges along her path to redemption, Andy learns the value of her freedom might be set too high.
Wick's job is to monitor Andy, but he prefers more intimate activities, none of them G-Rated. His choices, however, are often not his own. His ability to help Andy is limited by his bond to the Master Vampire.
Facing many trials and challenges along her path to redemption, Andy learns the value of her freedom might be set too high.
315 pages, Paperback
First published March 25, 2014
126 people are currently reading
1873 people want to read
About the author
J.C. McKenzie
39 books459 followersJ. C. McKenzie is a book loving, gumboot-wearing, unapologetic science geek. She predominantly writes urban fantasy and fantasy romance. When she’s not spinning tales, she’s in the classroom sharing her passion for science and mathematics while secretly warping the young impressionable minds of our future to carry out her evil plans for world domination. She lives in the Pacific Northwest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
March 21, 2016
Rough, but has potential “Life will break you. Nobody can protect you from that, and living alone won't either, for solitude will also break you with its yearning. You have to love. You have to feel. It is the reason you are here on earth. You are here to risk your heart. You are here to be swallowed up. And when it happens that you are broken, or betrayed, or left, or hurt, or death brushes near, let yourself sit by an apple tree and listen to the apples falling all around you in heaps, wasting their sweetness. Tell yourself you tasted as many as you could.” ― Louise Erdrich, "The Painted Drum"
It was supposed to be a simple job. Go in, kill, get out. Only, the odd thing is, the Supernatural Regulatory Division doesn’t normally send an assassin after a norm. It’s just not done. But, the job is to get in, get it done, get out, no questions asked. So, that is what she does. Only, when werewolves breaks into the room while Andy is carrying out her assignment, she knows something is strange. Then things get really interesting, in the Chinese, “May you live in ‘interesting’ times” sort of interesting.
“There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy. —William Shakespeare, Hamlet, act 1, scene 5”
In this case, there are many things going on in Andy’s world – things that could very well cost Andy her life. Surprise. The ‘norm’ Andy was sent to eliminate happens to be the human servant of the Master Vampire of the Lower Mainland. And though he still lives (even after getting his throat torn out by Andy’s mountain lion) the MV, Lucien Delgatto, is pissed. And if Andy doesn’t find out who put the hit out on Clint, the servant, well, she will find herself Clint’s plaything. The plaything of a sadistic monster.
This is a good paranormal. Lots of thrills and action, and a strong female character who has been through horrors in her life and still remains strong, though broken. There is, of course, the romance between Andy and Wick, the werewolf alpha. But though the romance is there, I give the author kudos for realistically managing the feelings and actions of a woman suffering from PTSD after horrific sexual, psychological and physical abuse. She wants to get past it, but there is no magical ‘I’m all better, let’s bang’ scenario, which I greatly respect the author for. Wick, though, didn’t gain my respect. He and his pack are in a difficult situation, I understand that, but given the situation Andy is in, I found his constant attempts to eat up her time with sexual advances and ‘snuggles’ in his bed rather unbelievable at best. At worst? Controlling and self-centered to a rather creepy level – Andy doesn’t make her deadline, Andy better kill herself before Clint gets his hands on her. To say I was a bit put-out with him is an understatement.
I received this book from the publisher through Reading Alley in exchange for a realistic review. I noted on Amazon that this is the first in a four book series, so the rather unfulfilling ending is somewhat explained. The potential triangle at the end made me cringe – that particular trope is a weak author’s crutch, but appeals to a certain demographic, so I expect it will continue in the next books. As usual, I didn’t read the blurbs for the next books before my review so I don’t skew the review for the book I have actually read. Amazon indicates, “This is a new release of a previously published edition.” I take it that means the book was reedited, but if so, whoever completed the edit did a poor job. The book is riddled with editorial errors. The world building is interesting, but contained confusing logic errors and a lack of clarity were irritating given the potential of a rather unusual and interesting overall concept. Both of these issues caused the loss of a full star. I did mistakenly think that this was a British writer writing a book set in the Northwest (Again. Groan.) However, this is a Canadian author, so the “Brit spellings” issue is actually “Canadian spelling” so keep that in mind when you read. Being set in Vancouver, it makes perfect sense. Overall, the book is different enough to be interesting, and I hope that the author grows her talents over the series.
It was supposed to be a simple job. Go in, kill, get out. Only, the odd thing is, the Supernatural Regulatory Division doesn’t normally send an assassin after a norm. It’s just not done. But, the job is to get in, get it done, get out, no questions asked. So, that is what she does. Only, when werewolves breaks into the room while Andy is carrying out her assignment, she knows something is strange. Then things get really interesting, in the Chinese, “May you live in ‘interesting’ times” sort of interesting.
“There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy. —William Shakespeare, Hamlet, act 1, scene 5”
In this case, there are many things going on in Andy’s world – things that could very well cost Andy her life. Surprise. The ‘norm’ Andy was sent to eliminate happens to be the human servant of the Master Vampire of the Lower Mainland. And though he still lives (even after getting his throat torn out by Andy’s mountain lion) the MV, Lucien Delgatto, is pissed. And if Andy doesn’t find out who put the hit out on Clint, the servant, well, she will find herself Clint’s plaything. The plaything of a sadistic monster.
This is a good paranormal. Lots of thrills and action, and a strong female character who has been through horrors in her life and still remains strong, though broken. There is, of course, the romance between Andy and Wick, the werewolf alpha. But though the romance is there, I give the author kudos for realistically managing the feelings and actions of a woman suffering from PTSD after horrific sexual, psychological and physical abuse. She wants to get past it, but there is no magical ‘I’m all better, let’s bang’ scenario, which I greatly respect the author for. Wick, though, didn’t gain my respect. He and his pack are in a difficult situation, I understand that, but given the situation Andy is in, I found his constant attempts to eat up her time with sexual advances and ‘snuggles’ in his bed rather unbelievable at best. At worst? Controlling and self-centered to a rather creepy level – Andy doesn’t make her deadline, Andy better kill herself before Clint gets his hands on her. To say I was a bit put-out with him is an understatement.
I received this book from the publisher through Reading Alley in exchange for a realistic review. I noted on Amazon that this is the first in a four book series, so the rather unfulfilling ending is somewhat explained. The potential triangle at the end made me cringe – that particular trope is a weak author’s crutch, but appeals to a certain demographic, so I expect it will continue in the next books. As usual, I didn’t read the blurbs for the next books before my review so I don’t skew the review for the book I have actually read. Amazon indicates, “This is a new release of a previously published edition.” I take it that means the book was reedited, but if so, whoever completed the edit did a poor job. The book is riddled with editorial errors. The world building is interesting, but contained confusing logic errors and a lack of clarity were irritating given the potential of a rather unusual and interesting overall concept. Both of these issues caused the loss of a full star. I did mistakenly think that this was a British writer writing a book set in the Northwest (Again. Groan.) However, this is a Canadian author, so the “Brit spellings” issue is actually “Canadian spelling” so keep that in mind when you read. Being set in Vancouver, it makes perfect sense. Overall, the book is different enough to be interesting, and I hope that the author grows her talents over the series.
March 18, 2025
My jumbled thoughts disguised as a review: I dislike the romantic interest Wick, have absolutely no interest in the werewolf pack, am not particularly impressed with Lucian, am not happy the vampire enslavement issue was left as a cliffhanger being it was the main thread in this book. So what did I like? I liked Andy even though she made stupid choices, Alan intrigues me, & Tristan seems like the ideal romantic interest... Maybe he'll replace Wick's dumb ass. I give this book a generous 2.5/3 stars
Not sure I'm going to follow the series. Maybe I'll jump ahead a book or so for curiosity’s sake & bc it's all available for free at the moment.
Not sure I'm going to follow the series. Maybe I'll jump ahead a book or so for curiosity’s sake & bc it's all available for free at the moment.
September 11, 2016
Andy is a supernatural black ops assassin-the kind that no one admits to employing but when her latest assignment goes belly up, her handler goes missing and her target seems to be very much alive, life as she knows it is about to do a 360 into chaos. As a shifter, Andy can alter her animals according to her needs, but she wasn’t prepared to have her inner wolf make a headlong lunge for the enemy, a werewolf alpha whose pack is indentured to the Vampire King, his minions who do his bidding.
Now captured and alone, Andy will face the humiliation and degradation of the vampires while fighting to keep her heart from falling for Wick. Meanwhile, the vamps want her to discover who gave the order to have the human killed and she has a deadline to meet or else. So, if Andy was tricked into doing this job, who IS behind this deadly fiasco? What is Andy going to do about Wick, a man of incredible patience and strength?
Shift Happens by J.C. McKenzie runs the gamut of colors and moods, from the dark and brutal to the light, snarky and humorous. Andy is solidly an independent woman with great inner strength, while Wick holds more patience and gentleness than seems normal, must be that mating bond. If you like very dark vampires doing despicable acts, a paid assassin with enough attitude for an army and two souls caught between love, hate and indifference as they struggle through the traumas inflicted, there is a very strong tale here written by an author who pulls no punches and isn't afraid to leave us with a few questions at the end.
I received this copy from J.C. McKenzie in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Carus - Book 1
Publisher: AmazonEncore (September 15, 2015)
Publication Date: September 15, 2015
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Print Length: 314 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Now captured and alone, Andy will face the humiliation and degradation of the vampires while fighting to keep her heart from falling for Wick. Meanwhile, the vamps want her to discover who gave the order to have the human killed and she has a deadline to meet or else. So, if Andy was tricked into doing this job, who IS behind this deadly fiasco? What is Andy going to do about Wick, a man of incredible patience and strength?
Shift Happens by J.C. McKenzie runs the gamut of colors and moods, from the dark and brutal to the light, snarky and humorous. Andy is solidly an independent woman with great inner strength, while Wick holds more patience and gentleness than seems normal, must be that mating bond. If you like very dark vampires doing despicable acts, a paid assassin with enough attitude for an army and two souls caught between love, hate and indifference as they struggle through the traumas inflicted, there is a very strong tale here written by an author who pulls no punches and isn't afraid to leave us with a few questions at the end.
I received this copy from J.C. McKenzie in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Carus - Book 1
Publisher: AmazonEncore (September 15, 2015)
Publication Date: September 15, 2015
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Print Length: 314 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
June 22, 2014
Good start for a new series.
Hmmm, I personally think this was a good start to a new urban paranormal fantasy due to the agent secret service taking out the supernatural. I enjoyed the read somewhat – I didn't hate it but wasn’t in love with it either.
I believe this series has lots of potential if each book would end with a Happy Ever After (HEA) and the main character wouldn't sexually tease their true mate and then do nothing about it - poor guy had the blue balls throughout the whole book. I mean it got old quick after Andrea (Andy) true mate (Wick the sexy were-wolf) told her that she was his mate and she constantly teased him but never went past second base with him, I mean not even at the end when all was over did she give into him like most true mates do – so that kind of turned me off.
However, the writing was good – a little long winded in some parts but overall it kept my interest as I anxiously waited for the climax. The characters were interesting and I wanted to know more about them and their lives in their packs. I loved the fact that Andy was a multiple shifter and was a special breed. I also loved the mixture of vampires having control over the were-wolves and were-cats. The meat of the story was interesting as well with a sick perverted were-hyena doing the torturing of the prisoners captured and a clan of were-cats being controlled by a vampire.
I thought the author did a great job giving the main character Andy a rocky past of being forced into a relationship with a former were-wolf, raped, and tormented to the point of never trusting anyone again – I did love the fact that she kicked butt and murdered the idiot.
However I cannot stress enough being as the normal goes for any paranormal were is that once you find your true mate, nothing can stand in the way of the match but evidently in this case Andy was able to resist. The chemistry between Andy and Wick was portrayed well with sexy and hot situations but was aggravating because it never came to fruition – Heat Level 2 Flames due to kissing and foreplay with each other.
Overall, I would definitely read the next book in the series just to see where the author takes the series with this governmental supernatural agency and the relationship between Andy and Wick. Of course as an avid reader I know new authors always get better with each book. Hopefully she will give the readers a HEA in her next book.
**Copy provided by author for a fair and honest review**
Hmmm, I personally think this was a good start to a new urban paranormal fantasy due to the agent secret service taking out the supernatural. I enjoyed the read somewhat – I didn't hate it but wasn’t in love with it either.
I believe this series has lots of potential if each book would end with a Happy Ever After (HEA) and the main character wouldn't sexually tease their true mate and then do nothing about it - poor guy had the blue balls throughout the whole book. I mean it got old quick after Andrea (Andy) true mate (Wick the sexy were-wolf) told her that she was his mate and she constantly teased him but never went past second base with him, I mean not even at the end when all was over did she give into him like most true mates do – so that kind of turned me off.
However, the writing was good – a little long winded in some parts but overall it kept my interest as I anxiously waited for the climax. The characters were interesting and I wanted to know more about them and their lives in their packs. I loved the fact that Andy was a multiple shifter and was a special breed. I also loved the mixture of vampires having control over the were-wolves and were-cats. The meat of the story was interesting as well with a sick perverted were-hyena doing the torturing of the prisoners captured and a clan of were-cats being controlled by a vampire.
I thought the author did a great job giving the main character Andy a rocky past of being forced into a relationship with a former were-wolf, raped, and tormented to the point of never trusting anyone again – I did love the fact that she kicked butt and murdered the idiot.
However I cannot stress enough being as the normal goes for any paranormal were is that once you find your true mate, nothing can stand in the way of the match but evidently in this case Andy was able to resist. The chemistry between Andy and Wick was portrayed well with sexy and hot situations but was aggravating because it never came to fruition – Heat Level 2 Flames due to kissing and foreplay with each other.
Overall, I would definitely read the next book in the series just to see where the author takes the series with this governmental supernatural agency and the relationship between Andy and Wick. Of course as an avid reader I know new authors always get better with each book. Hopefully she will give the readers a HEA in her next book.
**Copy provided by author for a fair and honest review**
April 1, 2014
After reading the blurb on the back of this book I was a little hesitant to try the blook as the description was a little dry and boring.With a name like Shift Happens you know it is going to be fun.The blurb on the back of the book does not come close to conveying how well written and enjoyable this book is so ignore it.
I found this a great read and I read a lot of paranormal romance. I was starting to find a lot of shifter novels getting similar but this one manages to find a fresh angle.
My favourite part is the characters, the heroine has enough depth to her that even when I put the book down in the middle (trust me I wasn't pleased), even several hours later I was thinking about her and what I was going to learn next about her past. Unlike in some novels, the alpha in this story respects the scars left from her past and is willing to take the time and help her through it, rather then his presence being enough to "fix" her.
This one is going onto my keeper shelf while I await the next book in the series at which time I will happily re-read this one before diving into the next. If you love Nalini Singh and Kristen Ashley this one is worth a try.
I found this a great read and I read a lot of paranormal romance. I was starting to find a lot of shifter novels getting similar but this one manages to find a fresh angle.
My favourite part is the characters, the heroine has enough depth to her that even when I put the book down in the middle (trust me I wasn't pleased), even several hours later I was thinking about her and what I was going to learn next about her past. Unlike in some novels, the alpha in this story respects the scars left from her past and is willing to take the time and help her through it, rather then his presence being enough to "fix" her.
This one is going onto my keeper shelf while I await the next book in the series at which time I will happily re-read this one before diving into the next. If you love Nalini Singh and Kristen Ashley this one is worth a try.
May 31, 2014
Andy and Wick made a great couple for the romantic side of this novel and the author ended the love/hate/on/off relationship in a suitable manner just before I got bored with it.
The storyline and world of this novel I have mixed feelings about, the vamps seem to be pretty horrible but possibly getting a small bit less evil towards the end, methinks the author might have realized that having them so terribly evil might not make for such great reading IMHO.
The character of Clint should have been killed off, he is so perverted that you need a shower after reading about him.
All things considered I will be getting the next book but more of Andy/Wick and less of the vamps/Clint would be a great improvement unless you just like stressful reading. I think there are great stories yet to be told in this world but why have her work for a law enforcement agency if you give it no real powers. It seemed that they had no power to help her in her situation but should have, need to give them some teeth.
Needs a tweak or two but overall great reading, 4 Stars
The storyline and world of this novel I have mixed feelings about, the vamps seem to be pretty horrible but possibly getting a small bit less evil towards the end, methinks the author might have realized that having them so terribly evil might not make for such great reading IMHO.
The character of Clint should have been killed off, he is so perverted that you need a shower after reading about him.
All things considered I will be getting the next book but more of Andy/Wick and less of the vamps/Clint would be a great improvement unless you just like stressful reading. I think there are great stories yet to be told in this world but why have her work for a law enforcement agency if you give it no real powers. It seemed that they had no power to help her in her situation but should have, need to give them some teeth.
Needs a tweak or two but overall great reading, 4 Stars
December 29, 2015
I really liked this book and the characters in it. However a lot of the things in it felt copied from other more successful books Like: Mercy Thompson, Jane Yellowrock, Kate Daniels. There was nothing really original in this series at all and the plot was a bit slow. But it was definitely worth a 3,5 star rating. The author needs to find her own style instead of copying from others because there where no really unique elements in this book. I am not saying it was a boring read because it wasn't, but it wasn't a great read either.
July 19, 2019
🎧 Audio Review 🎧
What a fun exciting book! I really enjoyed the twist to the paranormal world! These characters were badass, funny and sexy. Wick was my favorite, I love a strong silent type...aka sexy alpha! The writing was good and even though it had a cliffhanger, it wasn't a bad one at all!
The narration was fantastic! I seriously love Laurel Schroeder's work! I really hope she narrates book 2!
If you enjoy Werewolves, Vamps and more, you'll like this book!
What a fun exciting book! I really enjoyed the twist to the paranormal world! These characters were badass, funny and sexy. Wick was my favorite, I love a strong silent type...aka sexy alpha! The writing was good and even though it had a cliffhanger, it wasn't a bad one at all!
The narration was fantastic! I seriously love Laurel Schroeder's work! I really hope she narrates book 2!
If you enjoy Werewolves, Vamps and more, you'll like this book!
July 10, 2015
Heart-pounding, non-stop, edge of your seat excitement!
If I could give this book 10 stars I would! It is my new favorite book, one I plan on reading more than once. Cannot wait to start the next one! Excellent book!
If I could give this book 10 stars I would! It is my new favorite book, one I plan on reading more than once. Cannot wait to start the next one! Excellent book!
May 31, 2020
Vamps Wolves Cats oh my
Shift happened & took a glorious ride! Action packed throw in so vamp politics makes for a truly wicked read. Loved it and can't wait for more. May everyone enjoy it as much as I did.
Shift happened & took a glorious ride! Action packed throw in so vamp politics makes for a truly wicked read. Loved it and can't wait for more. May everyone enjoy it as much as I did.
April 27, 2015
Pulls you in right from the beginning. Quick. Funny, and entertaining. Sexy without making you gag, this action packed, thrill ride is worth the read.
A definite recommend from me.
A definite recommend from me.
July 25, 2014
The book starts out fast and quickly goes on from there, dragging us headlong into a future world where shifters, weres, vampires and all sorts of paranormals are officially "out" and people have learned to deal with it. Sort of. Andy McNeilly works for the government agency that polices the "supes" and takes out the baddies before things get ugly.
Things get ugly for Andy in the very first chapter.
As a shape shifter with more than one form, she is not the "normal" supe. She's never met another who can do what she does, and knows that different isn't good. She's a loner both by choice and by necessity. When her assignment goes bad and she's captured by a pack of werewolves, she's confronted by an overwhelming urge to join with the pack's alpha, Wick - despite having vowed to never trust another man ever again. Emotional conflict adds to the action and suspense, raising the stakes on everything.
The vampires aren't sparkly, but rather pure evil in Armani suits. The werewolves come in all stripes of temperament, and most shifters are defined by their chosen animals. As we go through the book with Andy (it's written in the kind of snarky first person voice I love), we experience life as a shifter and she throws in her abilities for the reader so it all feels "normal." She also discovers a few new abilities, and we're right there with her, in front row seats.
The author develops Wick's character slowly until the reader practically screams at Andy to just give in, trust him to be a good guy and do it already! Or wait, maybe that was just me screaming. Oops.
The unresolved sexual tension is palpable and keeps you turning pages at incredible speed. I loved the scenes between these two characters, and my heart went out to Andy in her conflicted desires and PTSD from her past. There was some of that past that I would've liked to see more clearly illustrated and defined, as in the conflict that sent her into the wilderness for years of recovery. But I'm hoping the author is saving more revelations for book two which is already under contract.
In short, if you enjoy paranormal with a giant side of snark, you need to grab this book and stuff it in your summer beach bag. A great read, a fun ride, and a truly enjoyable debut novel.
Things get ugly for Andy in the very first chapter.
As a shape shifter with more than one form, she is not the "normal" supe. She's never met another who can do what she does, and knows that different isn't good. She's a loner both by choice and by necessity. When her assignment goes bad and she's captured by a pack of werewolves, she's confronted by an overwhelming urge to join with the pack's alpha, Wick - despite having vowed to never trust another man ever again. Emotional conflict adds to the action and suspense, raising the stakes on everything.
The vampires aren't sparkly, but rather pure evil in Armani suits. The werewolves come in all stripes of temperament, and most shifters are defined by their chosen animals. As we go through the book with Andy (it's written in the kind of snarky first person voice I love), we experience life as a shifter and she throws in her abilities for the reader so it all feels "normal." She also discovers a few new abilities, and we're right there with her, in front row seats.
The author develops Wick's character slowly until the reader practically screams at Andy to just give in, trust him to be a good guy and do it already! Or wait, maybe that was just me screaming. Oops.
The unresolved sexual tension is palpable and keeps you turning pages at incredible speed. I loved the scenes between these two characters, and my heart went out to Andy in her conflicted desires and PTSD from her past. There was some of that past that I would've liked to see more clearly illustrated and defined, as in the conflict that sent her into the wilderness for years of recovery. But I'm hoping the author is saving more revelations for book two which is already under contract.
In short, if you enjoy paranormal with a giant side of snark, you need to grab this book and stuff it in your summer beach bag. A great read, a fun ride, and a truly enjoyable debut novel.
August 8, 2016
In Shift Happens, government assassin Andrea "Andy" McNeilly blotched her job. What is usually a regular assassination of her mark become complicated when too many variables didn't go according to plan. Not only did she failed to kill her target, she also failed to escape.
Andy has to discovered who has given her order to killed a human servant of a very powerful vampire while being attracted to the werewolf alpha leader, Wick and to not end up as a servant of the vampire if she fails. As Andy goes deeper into her investigation, she wondered if she was a pawn between two rival master vampires.
Shift Happens covers the worst scenario of a assignment going wrong. For this assignment, Andy keep getting deeper and deeper into the ramification of her blotched job. As hard as she tried to get control of her situation, everything kept going wrong for her. She also discovered that she is a special shapeshifter but to what, Andy doesn't know who she really is, being an orphan.
Her wolf is pushing for her to fall for Wick and Andy is using her cougar to resist from giving her submission to Wick' wolf.
Readers/Listeners are going to love this story with a government agent/shapeshifter, weres, and vampires in the mix. This story has suspense, mystery, actions, and humor. The ending gives a glimpse that Andy is not out of the woods yet and leaves readers/listeners wanting to know what will happen between Andy and Wick.
The narrator, Laurel Schroeder does a pretty good job. I love the humor in Andy's voice from the narrator. It shows that Andy doesn't take her job too serious and tries to see humor in her assignments.
I was given this audiobook by the narrator via Audiobook Blast in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated or influenced in any way in writing this review.
Andy has to discovered who has given her order to killed a human servant of a very powerful vampire while being attracted to the werewolf alpha leader, Wick and to not end up as a servant of the vampire if she fails. As Andy goes deeper into her investigation, she wondered if she was a pawn between two rival master vampires.
Shift Happens covers the worst scenario of a assignment going wrong. For this assignment, Andy keep getting deeper and deeper into the ramification of her blotched job. As hard as she tried to get control of her situation, everything kept going wrong for her. She also discovered that she is a special shapeshifter but to what, Andy doesn't know who she really is, being an orphan.
Her wolf is pushing for her to fall for Wick and Andy is using her cougar to resist from giving her submission to Wick' wolf.
Readers/Listeners are going to love this story with a government agent/shapeshifter, weres, and vampires in the mix. This story has suspense, mystery, actions, and humor. The ending gives a glimpse that Andy is not out of the woods yet and leaves readers/listeners wanting to know what will happen between Andy and Wick.
The narrator, Laurel Schroeder does a pretty good job. I love the humor in Andy's voice from the narrator. It shows that Andy doesn't take her job too serious and tries to see humor in her assignments.
I was given this audiobook by the narrator via Audiobook Blast in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated or influenced in any way in writing this review.
May 27, 2014
Very rarely do I come across paranormal mystery books that have a unique take on the were mythology. "Shift Happens" is one of these rare reads. Before I start my review I should probably say that this book would have received a 5 Star review from me had it not delved into the blow by blow nature of the sexual abuse suffered by the main character. It was unnecessary and not written in the most sensitive manner. With that being said, I would have loved this read except for that.
Andy is a shifter with three different forms and she is an assassin for SRD. Her current assignment is to take out a human and ask no questions; but, once she completes the assignment she realizes she has been set up and now is in big trouble with the master vampire of the city, Lucian. The man she killed, Clint was the vampires #1 man. Imagine her surprise when Andy is captured by a group of werewolves led by alpha, Wick. He works for Lucian and shows signs of being her mate. Additionally, it seems Clint is still alive and he is looking for revenge in the most sexually perverse way.
If Andy is to survive she will need to redeem herself with the SRD, find out who ordered the hit on Clint within 10 days, and do something she is not good at, trust others. Wick is just the were for the job. As much as I enjoyed this book I do wonder why the author always threatens Andy from every foe with sexually perversity especially since she has already described her past which was full of it. I just hope the next installment with de- emphasize this.
Andy is a shifter with three different forms and she is an assassin for SRD. Her current assignment is to take out a human and ask no questions; but, once she completes the assignment she realizes she has been set up and now is in big trouble with the master vampire of the city, Lucian. The man she killed, Clint was the vampires #1 man. Imagine her surprise when Andy is captured by a group of werewolves led by alpha, Wick. He works for Lucian and shows signs of being her mate. Additionally, it seems Clint is still alive and he is looking for revenge in the most sexually perverse way.
If Andy is to survive she will need to redeem herself with the SRD, find out who ordered the hit on Clint within 10 days, and do something she is not good at, trust others. Wick is just the were for the job. As much as I enjoyed this book I do wonder why the author always threatens Andy from every foe with sexually perversity especially since she has already described her past which was full of it. I just hope the next installment with de- emphasize this.
March 27, 2014
Shift Happens is a wonderful new book from debut author J.C.McKenzie.
It’s been 70+ years since The Purge – the era in which supernatural beings were exposed to the world. Andrea (Andy) McNelly, SRD (Supernatural Regulatory Division) agent, is not your usual shapeshifter. Her special abilities along with her not-so-nice past result in the sass and brass she uses to overcome the challenges she must face...none of which I will spoil here.
It’s not just Andy but the wonderful cast of supporting characters that made me love this book. Blond Norse-god-like werewolf Wick, sinfully handsome (or is that sinful and handsome) human servant Clint, chiseled-featured Asian vampire Allan, and the citrus & sunshine wereleopard Tristan (ppppuuurrrr!!).
This is the first book in series planned by Ms McKenzie, and while Shift Happens stands alone on its own, I can’t wait for more!!
It’s been 70+ years since The Purge – the era in which supernatural beings were exposed to the world. Andrea (Andy) McNelly, SRD (Supernatural Regulatory Division) agent, is not your usual shapeshifter. Her special abilities along with her not-so-nice past result in the sass and brass she uses to overcome the challenges she must face...none of which I will spoil here.
It’s not just Andy but the wonderful cast of supporting characters that made me love this book. Blond Norse-god-like werewolf Wick, sinfully handsome (or is that sinful and handsome) human servant Clint, chiseled-featured Asian vampire Allan, and the citrus & sunshine wereleopard Tristan (ppppuuurrrr!!).
This is the first book in series planned by Ms McKenzie, and while Shift Happens stands alone on its own, I can’t wait for more!!
November 28, 2016
Rapey but darkly entertaining
I gobbled this story up but may have gone through quickly the stuff I didn't care to read about.
The heroine was raped for a long time by someone she had trusted. Her flashbacks are terrifying and happen frequently, especially when she is getting it on with the love interest. Then she is forced into a situation where she will be given as a pet to a sadist if she doesn't investigate and prove something. She is captured which leads to torture and promises of rape. More than once she uses her sexuality to accomplish a goal.
So I won't read more despite the open ending. This was too rapey for me and the tangled love interests look like they will get worse.
Mature content
I gobbled this story up but may have gone through quickly the stuff I didn't care to read about.
The heroine was raped for a long time by someone she had trusted. Her flashbacks are terrifying and happen frequently, especially when she is getting it on with the love interest. Then she is forced into a situation where she will be given as a pet to a sadist if she doesn't investigate and prove something. She is captured which leads to torture and promises of rape. More than once she uses her sexuality to accomplish a goal.
So I won't read more despite the open ending. This was too rapey for me and the tangled love interests look like they will get worse.
Mature content
January 14, 2015
This is a good debut book and could be a great series if the author tightens up the storyline. There were a lot of superfluous scenes that lessen the tension of the situation such as the ranting about Zombie movies.
The characters needed a little more depth especially Wick. He came across as nothing more than horny and not the Alpha of the pack. The animal came through but not the man nor the leader.
It left a lot of questions unanswered, obviously saving them for the next installment, which left the book ending abrupt and unsatisfying. This series has potential and I certainly enjoyed it enough to give book #2 a try.
The characters needed a little more depth especially Wick. He came across as nothing more than horny and not the Alpha of the pack. The animal came through but not the man nor the leader.
It left a lot of questions unanswered, obviously saving them for the next installment, which left the book ending abrupt and unsatisfying. This series has potential and I certainly enjoyed it enough to give book #2 a try.
November 23, 2014
I really enjoyed this. I liked the character, she was someone you could truly empathise with. The story included some pretty good sex which was not over the top nor overused within the story.
The story wasn't especially new in it's concepts, however it was well done and a nice length, being longer than the odd 180 to 220 page range. I like that.
Definitely looking forward to the next installment which isn't available yet, but looks like it should come out this year.
The story wasn't especially new in it's concepts, however it was well done and a nice length, being longer than the odd 180 to 220 page range. I like that.
Definitely looking forward to the next installment which isn't available yet, but looks like it should come out this year.
October 17, 2014
A new spin on paranormal romance, Andrea McNelly has three animal spirits within her and is able to change into any of the three.
Read full review in the 2014 August issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2014 August issue of InD’tale Magazine.
June 18, 2015
Review to come
January 12, 2020
Loved this a completely addictive read, Andy is a legend ! I love the female leads J C McKenzie writes they are so relatable, tough, funny and this is another great book and series
December 13, 2019
This book was a really fun book to read!
January 3, 2017
I thought this was an enjoyable paranormal story. I really liked Andrea McNeilly, a shifter who is a government assassin for the Supernatural Regulatory Division (SRD). Unlike normal shifters who can only shift into one animal, she can shift into at least three (mountain lion, wolf, and falcon), even though she does not understand why she has this abnormal ability. Andrea (Andy) has a good mix of toughness and vulnerability that makes the reader want to root for her. The author has created an interesting plot which holds the reader's attention, with Andy facing some difficult situations out of which she has to try to find her way.
Some minor criticisms:
1). I think the burgeoning romance between Andy and Wick, an alpha werewolf, makes sense and provides some added tension, especially as Wick is the under the control of Lucien, the Master Vampire who has also claimed Andy and from whom Andy wants to escape. I also liked how the author used the efforts at intimacy by Wick as a way to reveal some of the unpleasant things in Andy's past that make her reluctant to get too close emotionally to Wick. However, with all of the other things going on in the story, I think the author spends too much time on Wick trying to push the relationship farther than Andy is ready to accept.
2). Although this is the first book in a series, it really feels like it should be a second or third book. There is a lot of backstory that is discussed briefly -- Andy's discovery that she can shift into three animals; her previous time as a forced mate of a werewolf named Dylan (an experience which really affects who she is and how she relates to powerful supernatural males), and her decision to work for the SRD as an assassin -- that would make for a good book and would add greater depth and understanding to an intriguing character. I imagine over the course of the remaining four books in this series, the reader will learn additional details about Andy's past, but reading this book I felt like I jumped into a story that had already been partially told. Maybe one day the author will write a "prequel" that goes into depth regarding Andy's backstory.
I received a copy of the ebook from Reading Alley in exchange for a review.
Some minor criticisms:
1). I think the burgeoning romance between Andy and Wick, an alpha werewolf, makes sense and provides some added tension, especially as Wick is the under the control of Lucien, the Master Vampire who has also claimed Andy and from whom Andy wants to escape. I also liked how the author used the efforts at intimacy by Wick as a way to reveal some of the unpleasant things in Andy's past that make her reluctant to get too close emotionally to Wick. However, with all of the other things going on in the story, I think the author spends too much time on Wick trying to push the relationship farther than Andy is ready to accept.
2). Although this is the first book in a series, it really feels like it should be a second or third book. There is a lot of backstory that is discussed briefly -- Andy's discovery that she can shift into three animals; her previous time as a forced mate of a werewolf named Dylan (an experience which really affects who she is and how she relates to powerful supernatural males), and her decision to work for the SRD as an assassin -- that would make for a good book and would add greater depth and understanding to an intriguing character. I imagine over the course of the remaining four books in this series, the reader will learn additional details about Andy's past, but reading this book I felt like I jumped into a story that had already been partially told. Maybe one day the author will write a "prequel" that goes into depth regarding Andy's backstory.
I received a copy of the ebook from Reading Alley in exchange for a review.
November 29, 2015
Shift Happens (A Carus Novel Book 1) J. C. McKenzie
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal.
One from the Kindle Unlimited range today. I saw there were three books out and somehow thought this was a trilogy and that I could read right through ( though books 2 and 3 aren’t on KU). It wasn’t til I came to write this review I discovered its actually a five book series. I would like to read more, very much enjoyed this and given first books in a series have a hard job, set the scene, introduce the main characters and deliver a plot that keeps the reader hooked this novel did really well for me. Not a 5 star read but a solid 4.
So, we meet Andy when a Gov. job goes wrong. It's a narrow escape for her but she thinks she's done her jopb and the victim is dead, but he's not...turns out he’s not just a norm, but a local Master Vampire’s human servant, Clint. Oops, bit awkward then that Andy's been captured by the local wolf pack, who answer to that vampire, Lucien, and he demands to know why the hit was ordered. He’s furious, who dares touch what is his!! He gives Andy a week to find answers and proof, otherwise she’ll be turned over to Clint as a pet for him to do as he pleases. Not good given he’s into some pretty rough sex, and will have free rein to treat her however he wants. Tough job though tracking down who was behind the hit as Andy can’t seem to contact her handler, the one who gave her the job, and he’s her contact for the dept she works for.
Its complicated too by the Alpha of the pack, Wick, who decides Andy is his Mate. She’s been there and done that in her past, and it took a long while and much out of her when she finally managed to escape that sadistic man. Wick may be drop dead gorgeous and her wolf may see him as a perfect Mate, but Andy and the other sides of her determine to hold out. Other sides? Well, come on, just as Clint is more than just a human servant Andy is more than just a shifter.....
Its a fun read, with well thought out plots and great characters. Its a plausible story – even when its fantasy/fiction I have to believe that if the scene was real so could the plots be. I’d love to read more but have a lot of unfinished series on the go and will wait till all of it’s out. That's the way I enjoy these reads best, on a back to back fantasy fest – I’m currently doing just that between review reads and others, with Patricia Briggs Mercy Thomson series. That’s on-going of course, by now its on to the 8th ( I think) book. Its one I can read and enjoy without being desperate for the next read as the stories are complete, though each builds on and is related to what has gone before. This series looks to be like that too – there’s no cliff-hanger, Hurrah, but a proper ending leaving clues for how next book will develop.
Stars: Four, a really fun read with some realistic characters and themes
If you enjoyed my review I'd love it if you would please click “Like” and if you didn't I'd love to know why, so I can make future reviews more helpful.
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal.
One from the Kindle Unlimited range today. I saw there were three books out and somehow thought this was a trilogy and that I could read right through ( though books 2 and 3 aren’t on KU). It wasn’t til I came to write this review I discovered its actually a five book series. I would like to read more, very much enjoyed this and given first books in a series have a hard job, set the scene, introduce the main characters and deliver a plot that keeps the reader hooked this novel did really well for me. Not a 5 star read but a solid 4.
So, we meet Andy when a Gov. job goes wrong. It's a narrow escape for her but she thinks she's done her jopb and the victim is dead, but he's not...turns out he’s not just a norm, but a local Master Vampire’s human servant, Clint. Oops, bit awkward then that Andy's been captured by the local wolf pack, who answer to that vampire, Lucien, and he demands to know why the hit was ordered. He’s furious, who dares touch what is his!! He gives Andy a week to find answers and proof, otherwise she’ll be turned over to Clint as a pet for him to do as he pleases. Not good given he’s into some pretty rough sex, and will have free rein to treat her however he wants. Tough job though tracking down who was behind the hit as Andy can’t seem to contact her handler, the one who gave her the job, and he’s her contact for the dept she works for.
Its complicated too by the Alpha of the pack, Wick, who decides Andy is his Mate. She’s been there and done that in her past, and it took a long while and much out of her when she finally managed to escape that sadistic man. Wick may be drop dead gorgeous and her wolf may see him as a perfect Mate, but Andy and the other sides of her determine to hold out. Other sides? Well, come on, just as Clint is more than just a human servant Andy is more than just a shifter.....
Its a fun read, with well thought out plots and great characters. Its a plausible story – even when its fantasy/fiction I have to believe that if the scene was real so could the plots be. I’d love to read more but have a lot of unfinished series on the go and will wait till all of it’s out. That's the way I enjoy these reads best, on a back to back fantasy fest – I’m currently doing just that between review reads and others, with Patricia Briggs Mercy Thomson series. That’s on-going of course, by now its on to the 8th ( I think) book. Its one I can read and enjoy without being desperate for the next read as the stories are complete, though each builds on and is related to what has gone before. This series looks to be like that too – there’s no cliff-hanger, Hurrah, but a proper ending leaving clues for how next book will develop.
Stars: Four, a really fun read with some realistic characters and themes
If you enjoyed my review I'd love it if you would please click “Like” and if you didn't I'd love to know why, so I can make future reviews more helpful.
April 14, 2015
To read this review and others like it check out my site at www.homelovebooks.com
I have to admit I seriously loved this book. I mean, when I read the synopsis I thought I would like the book okay, I have been looking for shifter books recently, but I really didn't expect to love this book the way I did. Seriously, if they synopsis doesn't pull you in, I urge you to give it a shot anyway, because the synopsis doesn't this book no justice at all.
So Andy's job is basically a government agent who takes out any supe who becomes an issue. So one night on the job, she attacks her target, only her target has backup, in the form of his very own wolfpack as bodyguard, oh and the guy was human too, something was so not right with this situation. Before Andy knows it she's been caught and she's in all kinds of trouble with the local Master Vamp, the wolfpack, and her job. Andy certainly has a lot to work through in the course of this book, and not a lot of time to do it in. It definitely made for one wild ride.
So the wolf alpha is Wick, I like his first name better, but hey is called Wick in this book so that's what I am going to stick with. I loved with. Like seriously. He has all the standard alpha wolf traits you know and love in a urban fantasy, but he isn't so full of himself that he is overly pushing or lacking understanding, he really is a good guy. I loved how much space he was willing to give Andy when he realizes she has a lot going on in her past, he is willing to be patient with her, and I adore that.
I will say there is a lot going on in this book. The issue with most urban fantasy books in the first installment is that the author has to educate you as much as possible on the world building without overloading you with information but also enough to paint a full and vivid picture. I will admit I struggled with the world building in the first couple of chapters, but I caught on quick enough to the little nuisances of all the supes in the world, and since there are a lot of supes in this book to learn, I would say this is pretty good world building.
Another thing I really liked about this book is no one is really cut and dry good or bad. I mean there are people on opposite sides on Andy, but you can't really call all of them bad guys, in fact the vast majority of people in this book are in similar situations to Andy and you can't really blame them for acting for their own self preservation. That being said there was a couple of legitimately shady, creepy, really bad guys and I would love to elaborate on my feelings about them, but I would ruin it for you, the most I am willing to say is the guy I hated the most is the one with the scalpel.
I would easily recommend this book to anyone who loved urban fantasy, it was exactly the kind of shifters book I was looking for, and I am totally ready to read the next in the series. Sign me up asap!
I have to admit I seriously loved this book. I mean, when I read the synopsis I thought I would like the book okay, I have been looking for shifter books recently, but I really didn't expect to love this book the way I did. Seriously, if they synopsis doesn't pull you in, I urge you to give it a shot anyway, because the synopsis doesn't this book no justice at all.
So Andy's job is basically a government agent who takes out any supe who becomes an issue. So one night on the job, she attacks her target, only her target has backup, in the form of his very own wolfpack as bodyguard, oh and the guy was human too, something was so not right with this situation. Before Andy knows it she's been caught and she's in all kinds of trouble with the local Master Vamp, the wolfpack, and her job. Andy certainly has a lot to work through in the course of this book, and not a lot of time to do it in. It definitely made for one wild ride.
So the wolf alpha is Wick, I like his first name better, but hey is called Wick in this book so that's what I am going to stick with. I loved with. Like seriously. He has all the standard alpha wolf traits you know and love in a urban fantasy, but he isn't so full of himself that he is overly pushing or lacking understanding, he really is a good guy. I loved how much space he was willing to give Andy when he realizes she has a lot going on in her past, he is willing to be patient with her, and I adore that.
I will say there is a lot going on in this book. The issue with most urban fantasy books in the first installment is that the author has to educate you as much as possible on the world building without overloading you with information but also enough to paint a full and vivid picture. I will admit I struggled with the world building in the first couple of chapters, but I caught on quick enough to the little nuisances of all the supes in the world, and since there are a lot of supes in this book to learn, I would say this is pretty good world building.
Another thing I really liked about this book is no one is really cut and dry good or bad. I mean there are people on opposite sides on Andy, but you can't really call all of them bad guys, in fact the vast majority of people in this book are in similar situations to Andy and you can't really blame them for acting for their own self preservation. That being said there was a couple of legitimately shady, creepy, really bad guys and I would love to elaborate on my feelings about them, but I would ruin it for you, the most I am willing to say is the guy I hated the most is the one with the scalpel.
I would easily recommend this book to anyone who loved urban fantasy, it was exactly the kind of shifters book I was looking for, and I am totally ready to read the next in the series. Sign me up asap!
June 8, 2014
Originally reviewed on LauraofLurking
Strong language: Some
Drugs: None
Violence: Yes, semi-graphic
Sexual content: Yes, frequent
I received a free copy of this in return for an unbiased review
Shift happens is set in an urban environment after all supernatural creatures have been outed, and the majority killed. Things appear to have since calmed down with them able to live their own lives, even having a government department called Supernatural Regulatory Division to supposedly keep things even – even is that means using supes as assassins and not trusting them.
The supernatural base is thick with creatures and hierarchies, giving the novel a good depth, and room to grow into what I hope will be a long series.
Andy, a female supe, is the first person point of view for this novel. I liked her mix of humour and sarcasm even in the most stressful situations. Statements like "Damsels in distress never had inconvenient bodily functions, such as a full bladder, in any of the novels I read" broke the stress for a second, making it even worse when her worst nightmare's nightmare appears! It is well written, in places relying a bit too much on descriptions to give an air of passing time, but nothing that broke the bank.
In between the missions, and getting in trouble through general confusion and two faced help, were some very hot men to spend my time with… err I mean for Andy to get to know. She finds herself as a "guest under guard at all times" in a house of werewolves with the Alpha interested in her as a mate. This leads to a great deal of frustration and emotional turmoil on Andy's part, along with several will-she, won't-she as he libido doesn't pay much attention to her!
I felt the pack were a bit stereotypical, the bitchy one and her mate, the hot overprotective Alpha, the guy who liked Andy and often put her in corners, plus some surprises taken from the tropes book. I didn't take to most of these, but I feel given more time, and less of a prisoner quality of life, that may change in future books.
There were several groups who could be considered the villains of the novel, some of whom I took to far less than others, but I have a feeling these will be back again. Nevertheless it was always more about the mission than the current git-of-the-chapter when they were encountered so it did not throw me out of the book.
Considering this had more sexually related scenes in it than my average book I thoroughly enjoyed it and felt it is a great set up. I hope to get a chance to see the characters progress as the series continues.
I would give this a 4.5, despite my discrepancies with some sections of the book I will increase that to one of my rare 5 stars. Bring on the sequel!
Strong language: Some
Drugs: None
Violence: Yes, semi-graphic
Sexual content: Yes, frequent
I received a free copy of this in return for an unbiased review
Shift happens is set in an urban environment after all supernatural creatures have been outed, and the majority killed. Things appear to have since calmed down with them able to live their own lives, even having a government department called Supernatural Regulatory Division to supposedly keep things even – even is that means using supes as assassins and not trusting them.
The supernatural base is thick with creatures and hierarchies, giving the novel a good depth, and room to grow into what I hope will be a long series.
Andy, a female supe, is the first person point of view for this novel. I liked her mix of humour and sarcasm even in the most stressful situations. Statements like "Damsels in distress never had inconvenient bodily functions, such as a full bladder, in any of the novels I read" broke the stress for a second, making it even worse when her worst nightmare's nightmare appears! It is well written, in places relying a bit too much on descriptions to give an air of passing time, but nothing that broke the bank.
In between the missions, and getting in trouble through general confusion and two faced help, were some very hot men to spend my time with… err I mean for Andy to get to know. She finds herself as a "guest under guard at all times" in a house of werewolves with the Alpha interested in her as a mate. This leads to a great deal of frustration and emotional turmoil on Andy's part, along with several will-she, won't-she as he libido doesn't pay much attention to her!
I felt the pack were a bit stereotypical, the bitchy one and her mate, the hot overprotective Alpha, the guy who liked Andy and often put her in corners, plus some surprises taken from the tropes book. I didn't take to most of these, but I feel given more time, and less of a prisoner quality of life, that may change in future books.
There were several groups who could be considered the villains of the novel, some of whom I took to far less than others, but I have a feeling these will be back again. Nevertheless it was always more about the mission than the current git-of-the-chapter when they were encountered so it did not throw me out of the book.
Considering this had more sexually related scenes in it than my average book I thoroughly enjoyed it and felt it is a great set up. I hope to get a chance to see the characters progress as the series continues.
I would give this a 4.5, despite my discrepancies with some sections of the book I will increase that to one of my rare 5 stars. Bring on the sequel!
July 29, 2014
Fans of the paranormal genre will find themselves quickly immersed in this story as the storyline hits the ground running in a world were otherworldly creatures are an open part of society. Just because they're out doesn't mean things go smoothly though as there's a battle waging amongst these creatures that a special governmental group tries to keep under control.
Andy McNeilly is a member of this group and a shifter herself. She's not your average shifter though as she can take on different forms. Being different is a lonely experience as she keeps herself separate from others since her job doesn't inspire others to befriend her and her strange ability unnerves others too. She had a bad experience with a man in her past which adds to her leeriness and makes her feelings for Wick, the Alpha of the werewolf clan who kidnaps her at the start of the story, confusing and unwanted. Andy is the voice of this story and has a tell-it-like-it-is attitude. She boldly brings out her ability whenever it's needed as a truly strong-willed woman and learns more about her supernatural talents as the story progresses. She's scarred from her past though as flashes of PTSD sometimes overwhelm her and I felt sympathetic for everything she went through before and that we're just starting to learn about.
We get to know Andy very well in this story but Wick wasn't as fully fleshed-out beyond the fact that he was strong and sexy and willing to take his time with Andy in a relationship that puts them, and us, through the emotional wringer. I was drawn to their sensual battle of wills as they progressed from enemies to friends to something Andy doesn't want to acknowledge as Wick tried to keep her safe from a vengeful vampire when a direct order ends up with her set-up for killing a human servant.
While the weres in this story were immensely appealing in their rugged sexiness, the vampires were depicted as smarmy and dangerous. They felt like an otherworldly mafia in the power they wielded and Andy definitely wasn't safe with them wanting vengeance. Their human servant was truly vile and deserved what he got but there was more to his story that kept me on the edge of my seat. It's an intriguing world depicted here with a compelling hierarchy within the supes that I look forward to learning more about. The author doesn't pull any punches in addressing Andy's pain and I'm glad it wasn't sugar coated as it fit in with her strong-willed nature. Wick and his weres were drool-worthy and I appreciated their support of Andy. Overall, this was a unique read with a fresh spin on the well-used mythos. It's an engaging start to a new series and I look forward to getting to know more about Wick in the next installment.
Andy McNeilly is a member of this group and a shifter herself. She's not your average shifter though as she can take on different forms. Being different is a lonely experience as she keeps herself separate from others since her job doesn't inspire others to befriend her and her strange ability unnerves others too. She had a bad experience with a man in her past which adds to her leeriness and makes her feelings for Wick, the Alpha of the werewolf clan who kidnaps her at the start of the story, confusing and unwanted. Andy is the voice of this story and has a tell-it-like-it-is attitude. She boldly brings out her ability whenever it's needed as a truly strong-willed woman and learns more about her supernatural talents as the story progresses. She's scarred from her past though as flashes of PTSD sometimes overwhelm her and I felt sympathetic for everything she went through before and that we're just starting to learn about.
We get to know Andy very well in this story but Wick wasn't as fully fleshed-out beyond the fact that he was strong and sexy and willing to take his time with Andy in a relationship that puts them, and us, through the emotional wringer. I was drawn to their sensual battle of wills as they progressed from enemies to friends to something Andy doesn't want to acknowledge as Wick tried to keep her safe from a vengeful vampire when a direct order ends up with her set-up for killing a human servant.
While the weres in this story were immensely appealing in their rugged sexiness, the vampires were depicted as smarmy and dangerous. They felt like an otherworldly mafia in the power they wielded and Andy definitely wasn't safe with them wanting vengeance. Their human servant was truly vile and deserved what he got but there was more to his story that kept me on the edge of my seat. It's an intriguing world depicted here with a compelling hierarchy within the supes that I look forward to learning more about. The author doesn't pull any punches in addressing Andy's pain and I'm glad it wasn't sugar coated as it fit in with her strong-willed nature. Wick and his weres were drool-worthy and I appreciated their support of Andy. Overall, this was a unique read with a fresh spin on the well-used mythos. It's an engaging start to a new series and I look forward to getting to know more about Wick in the next installment.
January 6, 2016
Shift Happens is an Urban fantasy that is just different enough to be fresh. There are typical features of the genre, such as 1st person narration and a kick butt heroine. One of the things that makes this story different is the way the author plays with conventions in the world. For example, shifters and weres are different types of supernatural creatures. The story is set in the present, but there is also the feeling of recent history as the supernaturals came out after a Purge. It was fun hearing the slang that came out because of the change in society.
One of the other things I liked about the story is that it is set in Vancouver. If you're a scifi/fantasy fan like me, you'll know it as the place where genre tv and movies are filmed. It was nice to have it as the real location of the action.
Andy is like a lot of heroines in that she's tough with a hard past. She knows her own mind, but she doesn't fall into the "too stupid to live" trap that can happen even with competent heroines. She is a shifter who can take multiple animal shapes, and that makes her the rare Carus of the series. She is interesting enough that I am tempted to continue the adventures with her.
I listened to this story as an audiobook, and the narrator's performance is quite good. It was a voice I felt I could trust with this person's story, and that's a big investment of time when you spend about 8 hours of listening. I admit, I didn't care for her voice of Wick. During emotional parts, the male voices all started to sound similar to his: gruff and scratchy. Otherwise, the male voices of the secondary characters were fine, and she does well with accents. As the voice of Andy, though, the narrator does a good job in making her someone witty with whom we want to share the story's journey.
While this is an independent title, none of the work here is cut rate. Both the writing and the narration are well done. you don't have to worry about the odd awkward turns of phrase that weren't edited out or occasionally strange problems with the audio levelling. Rest easy that this all is professionally done.
Disclaimer: This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of Audiobook Blast.
One of the other things I liked about the story is that it is set in Vancouver. If you're a scifi/fantasy fan like me, you'll know it as the place where genre tv and movies are filmed. It was nice to have it as the real location of the action.
Andy is like a lot of heroines in that she's tough with a hard past. She knows her own mind, but she doesn't fall into the "too stupid to live" trap that can happen even with competent heroines. She is a shifter who can take multiple animal shapes, and that makes her the rare Carus of the series. She is interesting enough that I am tempted to continue the adventures with her.
I listened to this story as an audiobook, and the narrator's performance is quite good. It was a voice I felt I could trust with this person's story, and that's a big investment of time when you spend about 8 hours of listening. I admit, I didn't care for her voice of Wick. During emotional parts, the male voices all started to sound similar to his: gruff and scratchy. Otherwise, the male voices of the secondary characters were fine, and she does well with accents. As the voice of Andy, though, the narrator does a good job in making her someone witty with whom we want to share the story's journey.
While this is an independent title, none of the work here is cut rate. Both the writing and the narration are well done. you don't have to worry about the odd awkward turns of phrase that weren't edited out or occasionally strange problems with the audio levelling. Rest easy that this all is professionally done.
Disclaimer: This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of Audiobook Blast.
September 17, 2016
What a gripping story. Andy is quite the character. She has background of dealing with Dylan who's insidious treatment has mentally taken a toll on her. Even with a hot male in her sights, she doesn't give in. She has too much on her plate right now trying to discover why her last job went so terribly wrong. The story moves quickly and is engrossing. The shifter style world is a bit different than most stories. Here there is a physical animal that hangs out with you instead of only being in the characters head. With the exception of our main character since she is a bit different than most. I enjoy the sassy responses Andy has both out loud, and in her head. Gives you a good chuckle. I was given this story for an honest review and this is mine.
October 22, 2014
Funny story with this book. I had read the first 25 pages a few years ago as an entry I judged in the Great Expectations contest put on by by writing group, NTRWA. I had absolutely adored it then & was so overjoyed to see it out in the world. I remembered it from the awesome title.
I very much enjoyed this book!!
It's very well written. There was a strong start of steaminess & action.
I love the subtle snarky and sarcastic humor in the introspection of the heroine.
And had such a strong start and it was so well written I hate that I was a bit disappointed that the pacing was slow. There were parts that are actually dragged for me as well as one chapter that did nothing to further the plot so I thought it could have been cut for pacing.
I also did not like that the hero and heroine hardly had any page time together. Not nearly enough besides the obvious physical attraction when they did collide from time to time.
So the next thing I'm going to say is almost a contradiction & I know that but as the book continued it drove me a little crazy.
The hero & heroine don't spend enough page time together so therefore the can't know each other well, yet when they are together they rarely have their hands off each other. Sexual attraction; I get it. And I also get that she retreats because of what happened to her. But then...if she's a Vic of rape & abuse her MO with her assassination cases from the SRD makes no sense. She seduces too easily to genuinely fear like she does when she's with Wick. It's not credible.
So the scenes with the two of them got "OMG PLEASE JUST HAVE SEX" for me really quickly. It was Frustration, not story-furthering appropriate Tension for me.
The autocorrect references made me laugh out loud. Totally loved!!
I don't like the idea of her being torn between Wick & Tristan, nor do I like HEA threesomes, so while I plan on reading the next book when it comes out, I'm very leery.
This was a very good read for me but not as steamy as I would have liked. It had potential in that department & I think there was a little wasted opportunity.
I very much enjoyed this book!!
It's very well written. There was a strong start of steaminess & action.
I love the subtle snarky and sarcastic humor in the introspection of the heroine.
And had such a strong start and it was so well written I hate that I was a bit disappointed that the pacing was slow. There were parts that are actually dragged for me as well as one chapter that did nothing to further the plot so I thought it could have been cut for pacing.
I also did not like that the hero and heroine hardly had any page time together. Not nearly enough besides the obvious physical attraction when they did collide from time to time.
So the next thing I'm going to say is almost a contradiction & I know that but as the book continued it drove me a little crazy.
The hero & heroine don't spend enough page time together so therefore the can't know each other well, yet when they are together they rarely have their hands off each other. Sexual attraction; I get it. And I also get that she retreats because of what happened to her. But then...if she's a Vic of rape & abuse her MO with her assassination cases from the SRD makes no sense. She seduces too easily to genuinely fear like she does when she's with Wick. It's not credible.
So the scenes with the two of them got "OMG PLEASE JUST HAVE SEX" for me really quickly. It was Frustration, not story-furthering appropriate Tension for me.
The autocorrect references made me laugh out loud. Totally loved!!
I don't like the idea of her being torn between Wick & Tristan, nor do I like HEA threesomes, so while I plan on reading the next book when it comes out, I'm very leery.
This was a very good read for me but not as steamy as I would have liked. It had potential in that department & I think there was a little wasted opportunity.
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