Tempting the Black Wolf

Lone Wolf Legacy #3

by N.J. Walters

The wrath of the black wolf is unleashed…in this scorching finale of New York Times bestselling author N.J. Walters’s enticingly sexy Lone Wolf Legacy series

I am an immortal predator, driven to hunt and protect the wolf packs from danger—especially rogue wolves. This destiny is my blood, my bone. My will.

There are two other lone wolves—one gray, one white—but I am the strongest. The most powerful. And we all share an enemy, who set a trap for each of a woman with our coloring who will draw us into danger and make our wolves howl with need.

But I won’t give in to lust or passion.

I already know the face of the woman who is my supposed a stunning and powerful mage named Onyx. We’ve been circling each other, wary, fueled by deeply intense attraction and fierce distrust.

But the enemy of my enemy is my ally…for now. It’s a brief truce, laced with raw, primal hunger.
Because when this is over—if we survive—we’ll have to go head-to-head one last time.

And I never lose.

Each book in the Lone Wolf Legacy series is
* Taming the White Wolf
* Protecting the Gray Wolf
* Tempting the Black Wolf

Genres: Paranormal Romance, Paranormal, Witches, Romance, Fantasy, Shapeshifters, Suspense

276 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 9, 2024

About the author

Once upon a time N.J. had the idea that she would like to quit her job at the bookstore, sell everything she owned, leave her hometown, and write romance novels in a place where no one knew her. And she did. Two years later, she went back to the bookstore and her hometown and settled in for another seven years.

One day she gave notice at her job on a Friday morning. On Sunday afternoon, she received a tentative acceptance for her first erotic romance novel and life would never be the same.

N.J. Walters is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author who has always been a voracious reader, and now she spends her days writing novels of her own. Vampires, werewolves, dragons, time-travelers, seductive handymen, and next-door neighbors with smoldering good looks—all vie for her attention. It’s a tough life, but someone’s got to live it.

Reviews

[Carol [Goodreads Addict] · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tempting the Black Wolf is the third and final book in the Lone Wolf Legacy trilogy by N.J. Walters. These books focus on a trio of lone wolves, one white, one gray, and now the black one. All travel alone, are not part of any pack and hunt rogue wolves who senselessly hunt humans, endangering all of their kind. These three wolves act as judge and executioner, it is their reason to exist. But, a witch and her wolf mate want their immortality, their power, for themselves. It is she who created three women, each who shares a drop of each of their blood, that will call to them, that they will lust after, that will weaken them so that she can capture them. So far, her plans have not worked with the first two wolves. But now she is ready for the ultimate prize, the strongest wolf of them all, the black wolf.



Dagen Kern is known as the broker. He stays anonymous but is constantly brokering deals, amassing millions of dollars. No one knows of his true identity as the lone wolf. What is different than the other two wolves is that Dagen knows of the woman that carries his blood. And she knows of him. They have been keeping tabs on each other for a couple of years, following each other around, learning about each other. But they have never met face to face, until now, when a very power journal calls to both of them.

Onyx has been alone her entire life. She has always known why she was created and she is determined to protect the black wolf and to end the evil pair that want him. It is the only way that any of them will ever truly be free. But, both she and Dagen have lived their entire lives never trusting anyone. When they finally come together in New York, the pull between them is too much to deny. But it is just magic. They can give in to it temporarily, but once their job is done, they can go their own way once again.



In the mean time, Charles Armstrong and Solange Dupree, the wolf and witch pair who are trying to capture them, are in New York where they live, making their final plans.

I’ll just say that the prologue alone had me captivated. I’ve known all along that this final book would be crazy awesome and the best adversary for Charles and Solange would be the black wolf. I could not turn the pages fast enough to see what was going to happen next. I felt so bad for the lonely lives that both Dagen and Onyx had been forced to live but learning to trust another person was against everything they had ever learned. To trust each other took everything they had. But they knew they were stronger together than alone. Would it be strong enough? You’ll have to read these amazing books to find out.

“Her life had already been tied to his. Now it belonged to him. As he belongs to me.”

For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...

[Keri Barber · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the finale and part of the Lone Wolf Legacy trilogy series. Onyx is a mage who is blood tied to the Black Wolf, Dagen Kern. He is one of the three Lone Wolves whose job it is to hunt rogue wolves, protecting humans from becoming prey and the werewolf community from exposure. Onyx and Dagen must learn to trust each other and work together to defeat Solange, a powerful evil mage, and Charles, her werewolf lover, who will do anything to take the Lone Wolf's immortality.

There was not really a whole lot going on the first three quarters of the book. It felt like it was just a continuously mundane inner monolog of uncertainty and mistrust between the two main characters. The main action took place in the last quarter. There were a couple of spicy scenes throughout the book that tried to portray their mutal attractions and increased desire for each other. Overall, it was a good story and conclusion to the trilogy.

[Steph · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I’ve recently learned that being a lone wolf doesn’t mean having to be alone.”

Tempting the Black Wolf is the final book in the Lone Wolf Legacy trilogy and it was my favorite of the three. Walters nicely wrapped up the trilogy, Dagen gets his HEA even though he's resistant to give in initially. In fact, that's part of why I liked this couple best. He and Onyx, like the others, knew of the pull placed on them could be influencing their feelings and took time to get to know each other. Onyx was open and honest, which increased her likability. I was a bit surprised the three lone wolves didn't work together more, but it was good seeing all six of them finally meet and make plans for the future.

[Kristie Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

The conclusion to The Lone Wolf Series is here! With Onyx and Dagen figuring out their part in e everything, we see everything coming together and falling apart for people's plans. They fight the bond and don't want to tie themselves to each other more as the other wolves have chosen, but they're realizing that may not be the answer.

Both are fierce and independent, and Dagen knows that Onyx doesn't need him, but his wolf has decided that he definitely needs her. As they fight, they realize that they've been lying to themselves. The question is, is it too late? This was a great way to end the series.

[Dar · Rating 5 out of 5]

We get the rest of legend, and it was a whopper! I loved how our characters knew what was expected of them, but thought themselves too smart and strong to give into it. I loved how they found that they were useless to resist, but discounted it to forces beyond their control. I loved that they finally figured it all out, and still, realized they need to be honest with themselves and each other. And of course, I loved that we got the full story on how and why the lone wolf legacy brought them all together, and will keep them safe and in love <3

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

I definitely was in for a ride I wasn’t prepared for with this book!
Not quite an enemies to lovers but more of a “I don’t trust you” to “I will die for you” trope! I did enjoy the trope but it was a bit repetitive throughout the story.

I didn’t know it was a part of a series (though it IS a standalone) so there were some characters I wasn’t aware of the history with.

The climax felt rushed. I expected more of a drawn out fight. But I thoroughly enjoyed the resolution afterwards!

Thank you NetGalley and Entangled for giving me an eARC in exchange for a review.

[Alexandra Hernandez · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! Dagen & Onyx embarked on a journey to end the evil that has corrupted their lives & on the way figure out how to work together while battling feelings & being fated mates. I really enjoyed the twist N.J. Walter’s put on fated mates and I loved the ending where I all came together. The storyline was great & I understand it’s part of a series, but I had not read any of the previous books and I loved that I wasn’t left confused. Would recommend!

[Marta Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well the conclusion of this trilogy certainly didn't disappoint. We've met the Mage Onyx before but now it's time for the infamous Black Wolf Dagen to get to know her . Can Dagen trust her though because trust me Onyx has a doozie of a secret but my lips are sealed. What is pulse poundingly obvious is that this couple are incredibly drawn to each other. The stakes are high and although these legendary Lone Wolves don't usually work with others with common enemies that just might have to change !
This as with the previous books was a fabulous and fast paced story. Yes its steamy but there's a sweetness to it as well with Dagen being a glorious alpha male. This trilogy has been a delight to read and as usual the cover art brings everything to life. I found this very easy to lose myself in and heartily recommend if you enjoy paranormal romance.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair

[Read All About It · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been waiting for this one since the mysterious broker showed up in the last story.
Dagen is the Black Wolf. The last and most powerful lone wolf.

“It’s not fair. I’m always cold.” “Let me warm you.” He bit back the word “forever.”

Onyx is a mage with a huge secret. Together these two prepared for the epic battle against good and evil.
This trilogy has been fantastic and I have been invested since the first book. It’s just got better and better. This was an amazing conclusion and I can’t wait to see what comes next.

[Arielle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

~ Fated Mates
~ Enemies To Lovers
~ Forbidden Love
~ Chosen One
~ Dark Past

Summary: Onyx is a mage who was betrayed by a fellow mage, and Dagen is an immortal wolf who has vowed he would destroy Solange to stop her from controlling and eventually taking over the lives of both he and Onyx because, with their power, Solange could make her lover and herself both immortal. They both are on a mission to find an alchemist's journal that could stop her, but something keeps tugging them into each other. Dagen keeps telling himself he won't give in, but his wolf isn't holding back.

What I liked about this book: I love the enemies-to-lovers trope that is in this book, but I felt that it was very short-lived because things happened very quickly in the book for the two fated mates. I did love that both Dagen and Onyx had similar pasts where they bonded on the conflict of mistrust and burden in their lives and put that together to create a plan for the greater good. The themes of trust, survival, and the pressure of looming threats definitely contributed to the ongoing drama of the book. This book was really giving off a lot of masculine energy as I was reading it but I was not complaining!

[Gildergreen · Rating 1 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and the author for granting me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

My non-spoilery review: The very best thing the author could do for this book is get rid of the introductory chapter. The best thing she could do for her books in general is allow herself to believe, if only for a moment, that she isn't too Not Like Other Writers to adhere to certain standards - the ones she decries in her author's note, specifically.

Below are my observations made in real time while reading this book. They will contain spoilers, so carry on with that in mind.

😎 The author states at the beginning of her book that she eschews the pesky and unnecessary plotting tactics of other writers, and instead simply employs the spirits of her characters to tell her what to write, continuity be damned. This can only bode well.
😎 The lore drop in the opening chapter is too good to be true. The Curse of Comrade Lone Wolf is placed on one werewolf at a time (among all werewolves everywhere I guess). The lone wolf adheres to Highlander rules (there can only be one, immortal until beheaded). The lone wolf exists specifically to cull dangerous werewolves, is supernaturally curated one after another to do just that and marked by a sickle over the chest from lome-wolf-birth. Yet despite the fact that the lone wolf's entire immortal existence is devoted to protecting all werewolves everywhere in perpetuity by doing, ostensibly, the dirtiest and most dangerous work, as ordained by some inscrutible supernatural system that ensures there is always one lone wolf in play, he (and it is always a he) is ["shunned by pack, always alone"]. There's nothing in the legend of the lone wolf that explains why this living weapon of service is an eternal pariah, but if the ghost of the author's OCs didn't see fit to whisper plothole filler in her ears, I probably don't need it!
😎 My second favorite part of the intro chapter is the line, ["The only way to kill him is beheading, either during battle or by stealth or betrayal."] Me when I'm desperate to pad my wordcount. Accidental beheading like, on a job site, that would be fine. He'd survive that. Being intentionally and openly beheaded by an enemy while the lone wolf is just chilling would also not count, given these absolutely bonkers stipulations. The lone wolf could probably loophole his way into surviving a beheading sphynx riddle style if battle, stealth, and betrayal are the specific modes of beheading necessary for his death. God, this guy is so badass.
😎 Dagen Kern is the ultra-sexy name of our hottie baddie love interest, and isn't at all reminiscent of the ermagerd ghost of Millennial past.
😎 ["The black wolf might kill her on sight or he might not. There was no way to determine his course of action."] I mean, according to the legend mere pages earlier, lone wolves take out ["rogue wolves who senselessly kill"]. I feel like that determines his course of action a little. But maybe the spirit of the protagonist who was whispering this to the author as she wrote wanted us to see her as an ignoramus.
😎 Right away, Comrade Lone Wolf's voice is described as "masculine". Cishets using adjectives that actually mean something, level: impossible.
😎 oop I didn't even read the rest of that sentence before slapping down a critique, because the rest of it describes the FMC as being physiologically driven to obey. Cishets write romance that doesn't double down on gender essentialism, level: DIABOLICAL.
😎 Romance novel heroines are so fucking funny. "I'm scared that this guy I've just met is going to eviscerate me. Ooh, his hair is so shiny! I want to run my fingers through it!" I'm convinced that all FMCs in books like these forget that they're actually in the book halfway through a thought and just believe they're watching a CW show. She must have been whispering to the author to make her look too stupid to be real.
😎 First meeting: Dagoth Ur hurts her feelings by accidentally targeting her deepest insecurities. Then he touches her cheek, her nips shoot out like Nerf darts and her panties are DRENCHED. Girl, stand up!!
😎 He kisses her and she claims this has ["marked her for life"]. In like... a metaphorical way, or a werewolf way? Hard to tell. Harder to tell because the author likes to badly overexplain things that need no explanation, but leaves you scratching your head about the rest.
😎 ["I mean nothing to him." What else was new?] You just met him! You were JUST afraid he'd murder you in cold blood! I have a hard time feeling bad that you caught feelings in a few minutes and your delusion isn't reciprocated!!!!
😎 Protagonists talking to themselves is a fine trait to have. This protagonist asks questions out loud to nobody and the author answers through the text like a masturbatory Q&A. I don't know if there's a higher peak for comedy than this, but if there is, the altitude would surely kill me.
😎 ["The scent of her, a delectable combination of woman and lavender,"] what does it MEAN? WHAT does it mean?
😎 ["Dressed in all black, she'd resembled a sexy cat burglar. He'd wanted to pet her, make her purr."] This book has a 4.25 star rating.
😎 Haagen Dazs mopes about how alphas and young wolves love trying to take on lone wolves, once again directly contradicting the legend given to us at the very top. He even sort of suggests that they think killing him will? Transfer his immortality to them?? Does nobody know the legend we are privy to? Calling it a legend implies that that knowledge is widely held, even if it isn't strictly true, yet nobody seems to know it. It may benefit the author to change the name of that first chapter, but frankly, I think removing it altogether would make this thing seem way less dumb. You can't be contradictory if there's nothing to contradict.
😎 Tbh, the grim foreshadowing of the author's note is more dire and immediate than you could possibly imagine. She doesn't just ignore continuity between books - she ignores it between chapters.
😎 Our boy Dagen Kern thinks the name "Onyx" is unusual. Brave opinion from a man named after the Lord High Councillor to House Dagoth.
😎 i would like to propose a new trend called the Romance Authors Stop Treating Breasts As Erections Challenge. Why are they always swelling and jutting and perking up and shooting out and growing erect, and why are authors too cowardly to go the whole way and make them nut, too?
😎 This book is way too pointless and horny for the first sex scene to happen a whole 30% in.
😎 He really said "Mine" when she was just sitting up in a room where they're alone. My brother in Christ, who are you being possessive to? This author like. Knows the beats of what makes werewolves sexy, but just sort of throws darts at the wall for where to put those bits. Unfortunately it never hits, because the darts in question are as dull as our protagonist.
😎 He chews her underwear off and her response: ["Oh, God. Talk about sexy."] Geddaloadathisguy-core. Hitthebricks-pilled.
😎 ["Primed, her orgasm blasted through her."] 💥💥💥💥💥Stop, stop, she's already dead!

This is actually too ludicrous to endure any longer. I almost want to rate it higher for sheer entertainment value, but too many of y'all have skewed the ratings too high already.

[Tori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 5/5
I received the eARC for my honest opinion.

If you’re a lover of paranormal romance, that has shape shifting wolves, witches, action, fated mates and so much more you need to read the Lone Wolf Legacy series. I promise you won’t hate it! And if you do, I am sorry, because I just love this series so much.

I have been waiting forever to get to this book, and I can’t believe it’s finally over. I don’t want it to be but wow, what an amazing third book. I loved getting to know more about the black wolf, we knew from the first two books that he was stealthier, liked being alone, was very tech savvy, and knew how to stay untraceable. However, he needs the help of a mage named Onyx. However, she knows once she meets up with him that she will not be able to hide her past from Dagen, but she also knows that she can’t fully trust him as well. I loved how Walter’s ended this series, it was so full of action, great chemistry, drama, and so much more.

I loved that this book was packed with so much passion. Passion for the truth, passion for justice and to end the hunting of the lone wolves, and just an amazing story. I loved that the plot was different from the others but still the same main plot. I loved the plot twist that we got in this book, and I can’t say what it was because that would spoil the whole book, but I didn’t see that coming. I loved that we have two people who should be enemies, but they understand that they need each other to get what they both want. I found that having Dagen not trusting who his mate is and there is a good reason to why, but I think that added a great layer to the love hate banter that you will find in this book. I was aweing at moments and laughing at others. I loved that whatever Dagen gave to Onyx she would just give it right back. I loved watching these two try fighting their mate bond but really let’s be honest it was more Dagen fighting it.

I loved the characters in this book so much. I found it was easy to connect with them and I know that is because the way Walters wrote them. I loved that Onyx was an incredible mage, but she was also aware that if she showed too much of her powers that she would be traced and she knows not to do that. I loved that Dagen understood this and at one point you will see how much he cares about her because of the actions he takes when she saves him. I loved that we got to see how truly strong Onyx was to be a mage but not use her powers, unless she had too. You will see that she is flawed and acts like us normal people, which made it easy for me to connect with her. I loved getting to see how she treated the other wolves and their mates, and to see how she felt about Dagen. With Dagen I don’t blame him for being weary about the timing when his mate came into his life and how he wasn’t ready to share his life with someone else because he has been alone for so long. However, I loved that we got to see his walls come down and he started to show that he wanted Onyx in his life. Dagen is a very handsome man, and I loved that I got to see the protector side of him with Onyx and to see the softer side of him as well.

I think Walters did these books justice with that ending, even though I didn’t want it to end. I can’t wait to see what will be next for N.J. Walters.

I want to thank NetGalley and Entangled publishing for the opportunity to review this book.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tempting The Black Wolf
Lone Wolf Legacy #3
N.J. Walters
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

When the wrath of the black Wolf unleashes, you better run because the Black Wolf is not taking prisoners.

Dagen Kern is the ultimate predator. He's an immortal wolf, but not just any wolf. He hunts and protects the wolf packs from danger. He protects them from rogue wolves. This is his destiny whether he wants it or not. The sickle tattoo just over his heart is his brand.
Just like the other two Lone wolves-one gray, one white-but there is a difference. Dagen is the strongest and has the best contacts at his beck and call.

All three wolves have another thing in common they all share the same enemy, an enemy who has set a trap for each of them. The trap is a woman with the wolves coloring who will draw all three wolves into danger while making their wolves howl with need at the same time.

He is not falling for it, though. No way, no, how. He will not give in to lust or passion.

He already knows the face of the woman who is supposed to be meant for him and what an amazing woman she is. She's a powerful mage named Onyx. Heck, they've been playing the game for so long now. Circling each other, following each other, wary of each other. But things are coming full circle now, and he knows she feels it too. The attraction and total distrust.

But as it turns out, the enemy of his enemy is his ally, and that is saying a lot because it's really only a brief truce, one that is full of raw and primal hunger.

Oh my gosh! I have been waiting for this book, and it was even better than I anticipated. N.J. Walters is a master storyteller. I knew that the black wolf would probably find his mate, but he was so against trusting anyone that I wasn't sure if there was a woman strong enough to be his other half. Onyx was truly an incredible mage. The strength that poor woman needed just to survive being a mage in itself was crazy. Having the other two wolves and their mates in the book was really nice. I don't want to give any spoilers away, so I won't say anything else about the book. I can say this, though. Ms. Walters, I would love to give you more than 5 stars, but since they don't allow that, I'll give you the full 5 stars as I absolutely adored this book.

[Sonja · Rating 3 out of 5]

While this book wasn't bad, I really was expecting a lot more from the conclusion to this series. Especially because Onyx was already completely familiar with everything going on, so we wouldn't have to get another girl to explain everything to. Instead, about 80% of the book is Dagen and Onyx fighting the draw they have to each other while at the same time giving in to the physical demand to be close to the other. It legitimately isn't until after that 80% that they even make a move against Solange to put an end to this fight.

At first I thought this was going to be a better read because it was almost as if Dagen and Onyx were in a dance with each other. Both knowing what they are to the other, both after the same thing, but both refusing to let the other gain the upper hand. That didn't last long. They decide no more running and no more chasing, it's time for the two of them to meet up and work together to end everything once and for all. Unfortunately, when that happened the story really became pretty bland. Sure, we learn a surprise about Onyx, but that wasn't a shocker at all. What kind of was, though, was just how little Dagen knew about everything involving why there were three lone wolves. I had thought, him of all people, would have been more knowledgeable than he was. Too bad the majority of this story was lots of back and forth between mind blowing sex and frustrated/anger fueled fighting that drives a wedge between them each time. It got tiresome for me. Dagen especially. When someone that Onyx has thought long dead suddenly appears before her again, the story finally moves on to the final fight. This was supposed to be a big epic ending, right? Wouldn't that be what you expect? But NO. Gawd, I haven't been so let down with a final showdown in while. And this ranks up with some of the worst I've read. It was just so "easy", so short, and so very anti-climatic. Like I said, a total let down. And why even bother having the other lone wolves show up at that point.

Of this series, the first book was definitely my favorite. Kind of went downhill from there. But I usually enjoy this author's works, so I'll keep reading her books when given the chance.

[Sandy Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 3 in the Lone Wolf Legacy series and I would absolutely read the other books before reading this one as they all build upon each other. In this one, we finally get the Black Wolf's story!! I am an immortal predator, driven to hunt and protect the wolf packs from danger—especially rogue wolves. This destiny is my blood, my bone. My will. There are two other lone wolves—one gray, one white—but I am the strongest. The most powerful. And we all share an enemy, who set a trap for each of a woman with our coloring who will draw us into danger and make our wolves howl with need. But I won’t give in to lust or passion. I already know the face of the woman who is my supposed a stunning and powerful mage named Onyx. We’ve been circling each other, wary, fueled by deeply intense attraction and fierce distrust. But the enemy of my enemy is my ally…for now. It’s a brief truce, laced with raw, primal hunger. Because when this is over—if we survive—we’ll have to go head-to-head one last time. And I never lose.

Ok, so let me start by saying that I loved almost all of this book. Onyx and Dagen both have so many issues, not only with each other but with their respective pasts. And reading about how they deal with them and come together was great. They also have to deal with a lot of distrust of each other and who they are. I loved how they realized they had to learn to trust and work as a team. The story itself played out pretty great. My drawback-I felt like the big fight at the end was kinda rushed. Like I didn't feel like the 2 baddies truly got what was coming to them. I wish there had been more to it. I also wish there had been more to a certain voice and how it came to help. Otherwise, I loved everything else of this story and the epilogue was great!!

[Book Snob Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

We’ve all been waiting for this one, the elusive black wolf. The lone wolf that takes everything one step further, and is just all around more. More cunning, more stealthy, more intense, he’s just more. My Dagen, alpha of the alphas…..mine, mine, mine…let’s all say it with me, Sue’s Sue’s, Sue’s🤣. We all knew that the black wolf was more elusive than the other wolves, blending in and untraceable, he really is the alpha of the alpha’s. I’ve said it before, and I will say it again, I love, love NJ Walter’s wolves, and I do, so much. I just can’t get enough, whether it’s the Salvation pack, the original or the next generation, or the lone wolves, my addiction is very real. I always want more NJ Walters wolves, not sure who needs to know this, but feel free to let your people know that…I know, I’m subtle like a Mack truck.

These two had my heart, all their passion, they were in it together and that was it. I had a lot of awe moments with these two, just very thoughtful of each other when it came down to it, used to normally being alone, but really had each other’s back, and were there for each other. They knew they needed each other, and were in it until the very end. Dagen is the last of the lone wolves, which makes me sad, but so happy for all three of them. Three lone wolves getting the hea’s they greatly deserve. Fantastic storyline, with a heart racing showdown, a great epilogue that made my heart happy, and a hea. This was a fantastic book, and it was a fantastic series, they will be missed. Probably gonna need to start a support group…just saying. Hope you all enjoy this series ending as much as I did.

[D A · Rating 3 out of 5]

the 3rd and final installment of the Lone Wolf Legacy, it is best if read in order to best understand the worldbuilding and what has happened to date but the book (with enemies to lovers/fated mates) also works well as a stand alone. while the other lone wolves and events in their books are mentioned or make an appearance, a new reader will not be lost or be spoiled when they want to go back to read those books.

blood magic made it so they would be irresistibly drawn to each other but is it really just the magic or is it more? Onyx is meant to be the means to make the black lone wolf vulnerable so that his enemies can defeat and take what they want from him. Dagen has spent decades building a secret network of resources to not only to help others but in anticipation of the need to protect himself, the other lone wolfs and those he watches over from their enemies. Now they must team up to defeat their common enemy who wants them both dead. not only must they fight enemies but their mutual desire and distrust in the hopes of succeeding. the author does a nice job of balancing plenty of action & passion, a few twists, and some humor as these two learn about each other, their determination and begin to question how much is magic and how much is something else and just what that might mean. Dagen is use to being in control, knowing his course of action and fighting on his own. I appreciated Onyx efforts to remain strong and retain her hard fought self confidence in her own abilities and to not lose hope. In all a satisfy story and end to the trilogy.

arc courtesy of net galley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Tammy Moldovan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic story to end a fantastic series

Phew. This book. I loved Dagen and Onyx. The author did a phenomenal job of weaving together danger, heart-pounding action, palpable tension, unexpected twists, slowly unveiling mysteries, painful pasts, and spicy romance. All resulting in a rollercoaster ride with so many twists and turns it was hard to put the story down. The sexual tension ramping up in conjunction with the ratcheting up of the danger in this book was such delicious perfection. Dagen is the immortal Black Wolf, a lone wolf shifter who hunts and kills rogue wolves at the request of pack alphas and the knowing within himself. There are two other lone wolves in addition to him. He is also the Broker and has had contact with the other two wolves in that persona. Onyx is a mage who was designed for him specifically and has his coloring. Dagen and Onyx have been aware of each other for two years but now they are drawn together to deal with the evil mage who wants to steal Dagen’s immortality. Even understanding the involvement of evil and the influence of magic, the draw toward each other is too strong to resist. While running and fighting for their lives and trying to destroy the evil mage, there is a lot of past baggage for both of them to unpack to get to their HEA. The story was well written and included engaging dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, great world building, and a captivating storyline. While this is book 3 in the series, you’ll not be lost if you read this book without reading the previous 2 books, but do yourself a favor and read the books in order. It will add richness to the storyline and the books are fantastic.

[Mary Kirkland · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 3rd and last book in this Lone Wolf Legacy trilogy. In this book we have Onyx and Dagen who are fated mates because a powerful mage used magic to make three lone wolves and their mates. Dagen and Onyx don't really trust each other and when Dagen finds out more about Onyx he becomes really distrustful of her for a while. But the Lone Wolves are a very distrustful bunch anyway.

I read the first two books and thought that this book was the perfect conclusion to this series. I loved that the other lone wolves came out of hiding to lend a hand as well and we get to see them all working together as they should have been all along.

Onyx and Dagen have a lot of hoops to jump through in order to bring the powerful mage and her partner down and they are put into danger time and time again. It was nice to watch Onyx finally come into her own and use her magic that she's been suppressing down inside her for a long time.

I loved the twists that we see in this book and the fact that we finally get to understand how evil the mage really is and why she went to all the effort to do what she did. While these books can be read as standalone books, I think they tie in with each other so much that it's better to read them in order so you have the whole picture of what's going on with all the characters. This last book really wrapped things up nice. I hate to see this series end but it had such a good conclusion to it.

Disclosure: I was given an e-ARC of this book via NetGalley but all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[NICUnurse Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tempting the Black Wolf is the conclusion to this author’s Lone Wolf Legacy series. I devoured the first two books and couldn’t wait to dive back into this intriguing world. Once upon a time, I wouldn’t have called myself a paranormal/fantasy romance fan. Then, several of my go-to authors began writing in the genre, pulling me along somewhat reluctantly. But calling yourself a superfan gives you great power, and we all know that comes with great responsibility, so I did the responsible thing, began reading PNR, and something crazy happened: I figured out I actually LOVED it! Not long after, I found N. J. Walters’ Forgotten Brotherhood series, and she quickly joined the ranks of my go-to PNR authors. This brings us to this series, and after reading about first the white wolf and then the gray one, there was no way I was missing the black wolf’s story. And it was so worth the wait! As the underlying mystery continues through to the end of the series, I highly recommend reading the first two before reading this one.

I think I was more excited about Dagen’s story than the other two combined. I was more than intrigued by the little breadcrumbs about Dagen and Onyx, and I was completely unprepared for one of the twists in this tale. There is plenty of action, suspense, and, of course, shifter romance throughout to keep you turning the pages. As the underlying mystery continues through to the end of the series, I highly recommend reading these in order. Strap in, PNR fans! It’s a fabulous ride!

NICUnurse’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am so terribly sad to see this series come to a conclusion but it is a very satisfying one. I’d recommend starting at book 1 if you are peeking ahead. They all build on one another, giving us a great world.

Onyx knows she is one of the fated mates (or traps?) for the one wolf named Dagen because she has been raised in the big bad’s lair. She never knew a normal life, but has taken her time on the run to hone her skills, maybe even enough to take part in the final battle. She’s also been fighting the pull to Dagen as they dance around one another in the search for ways to break this spell/curse/destiny. It was fun to see characters that we have met separately engage directly with one another. As the “fixer” for the other wolves, we also got to see behind that curtain in this book, too.

Dagen isn’t without his own hangups, having hidden but stayed connected to his fellow lone wolves in a way that helps them all for this final showdown. He obviously doesn’t trust easily, so when Onyx’s secrets come out, it tilts his world in a way he can’t manage through. Lucky for them, the draw they feel overrides most misgivings. It’s always great when a series manages to move the pieces around in the previous books to have a great, satisfying conclusion, and this series does just that. As someone who reads a lot of paranormal romance, this had new elements and kept me guessing about who or how many would get out alive. Oh, and there is a healthy amount of sizzle, which never hurts.

[Nikki Brooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Temptation comes in many forms and for Dagen, that form is Onyx. They're frequently rivals, going after the same information or artefact. And just when he thinks he's pipped her to the biggest prize yet, some magical slight of hand leaves her holding the prize!

Onyx is a reluctant mage. With the childhood (see t0rtur£) she endured you can understand why she tries to stay under the radar. But with their joint enemies closing in, it's time for Dagen and Onyx to join forces and rout out the enemy.

There are still some big twists and reveals to come - totally called one of them! However, there are plenty of layers to the story to get stuck into - blood debts, finding out who the true Lone Wolf is, Onyx background, etc.

Solange and Charles are back to their murky best and you really can feel no redemption from them at all! There is some serious mistrust for Dagen and Onyx to wade through, perfectly warranted on both sides. But the chemistry between these two is palpable. The ribbing between the three lone wolfs was really enjoyable but it's their other halves who really bond them together.

I'm hoping that the Lone Wolves will pop up somewhere in the future. But I'm really intrigued to see if a certain vault owner gets a book in some future series?!?!?!

[hollie reads it all · Rating 3 out of 5]

First, I’d like to thank Entangled Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.

I would also like to note that I would actually rate this 3 1/2 stars, but the system won’t allow it. So, just keep in mind, 3 1/2!

This book is the third in the series, but can absolutely be read as a standalone book. My favorite part of this story was the lore of the Lone Wolf. It was incredibly unique and I haven’t read anything similar to it. N.J. Walters incorporated the lore into the story seamlessly and it was really well done.

The start of this book begins with a bang (or, an almost bang, I should say!), and really grabs the reader’s attention. The multiple perspectives keeps the reader learning along with the other characters, and is written well. I will say some of the pacing was a little disjointed for me, for the first half of the book, at least. However, towards the second half of the book, Walters really finds their stride. The final conflict of the book is actually really well paced, especially with the lead up to it. It happens quickly and efficiently, but not too fast that the reader feels cheated.

I *did* figure out one of the big twists, which was fun for me. I felt as though there were breadcrumbs laid for it, and it was a great *GASP* moment.

[Anne Szlachcic · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third and final book in this series - it features the Black Wolf , Dagen , an Immortal wolf , a protector of wolf packs against rogues .......... a wolf being hunted for his blood
Dagen has been the 'fixer' for the White and Grey wolves , hiding in plain sight so to speak ,
but he can no longer keep up the pretence . His fated mate is Onyx , a woman with magic honed under terrible circumstances , a woman he is determined keep at arms length despite the attraction between them .
An attraction they finally succumb to , sparks flying before finally agreeing to work together .
Can onyx's secret keep them together or will the betrayal destroy their relationship.

The story was a little disjointed in places with lots of anger/frustration and mind blowing sex but
once Onyx saw someone who she had long thought dead the story picks up at pace
The finale shows that only by being willing to sacrifice their own egos to the greater good
will evil be defeated ......... a great ending to an entertaining series

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own

[Lauren · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tempting the Black Wolf is the exciting conclusion to NJ Walters’s Lone Wolf series.

The author puts an interesting spin of the concept of fated mates here, and I thought that the push-pull dynamic between Onyx and Dagen was interesting to read, even though it became a bit repetitive over the course of the book. But I liked that they were both sort of fighting their connection at first and really kind of interrogated the implications of their bond and how that would affect their battle with Solange.

That being said, I was slightly underwhelmed by the climax of the story. There was so much build-up to the showdown that its execution felt pretty anticlimactic. Especially given the fact that this was kind of teed up throughout the rest of the series.

If you have enjoyed the series thus far, you should definitely finish it up. And if you love a “let’s try to fight fate and see what happens” microtrope, you will be left feeling satisfied.

Thanks to Entangled and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Erika B. Sappia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tempting The Black Wolf - Review

I’ve always loved wolves, especially in fantasy novels where their loyalty and strength shine. Wolves mate for life, a team through and through, and that idea of loyalty is central to this story.

Dagen, the “Lone Black Wolf,” is tasked with keeping all wolves in check. Living a solitary life, his true mission is to defeat an evil mage who seeks to steal his immortality.

Onyx, a mage created by this same evil, is linked to Dagen from birth, meant to be his weakness.

Their story is built on trust. As the saying goes, “The enemy of my enemy is my ally,” but can Dagen and Onyx set aside their distrust and work together?

I really enjoyed this book. Although I hadn’t read the first two books in the series, this one stands strong on its own.

If you’re into paranormal romance, magic, fated lovers, slow-burn tension with some steamy moments, and a magical battle that hits you right in the feels, this one’s for you!

Thank you to Entangled Publishing, LLC, and Net Galley for this ARC to read and review.

[Petula · Rating 5 out of 5]

This paranormal romance is part of a series. Each book can be read on it's own but because the main villain is the same, the series is better read in order.  Our hero is the black lone wolf. His purpose is to police werewolves and destroy any who go rogue. Over the years, he has built up a lucrative business in procurement,  mainly mercenaries and weapons.  That will come in handy in difficult situations. 

Our heroine is a Mage and has been linked to the hero since birth. 

I won't tell you how because that would spoil the story. 

Our characters will have a lot of danger to face. You might need the tissues, especially during the final magical battle. It is a steamy story, but it has a lot more to it than that. It is a great storyline and fantastic characters.  It is well worth reading the whole series.  

I loved it. 

[Kristyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had not read the first two books in the Lone Wolf Legacy trilogy, but found this to be a standalone book that could be read and understood without the other two. Dagen is a powerful Lone Wolf, who is endowed with immortality, but unlike normal wolf shifters, is destined to be alone and is the judge and executioner of rogue wolves. Onyx is a mage who has a very complicated past. They are tied to each other through a blood link, which makes them both question if the feelings they are fighting are really their own or just the link that was forced upon them. This book read very quickly once I got itnto it and I enjoyed watching Dagen and Onyx figure out what they meant to each other. I enjoyed the final “showdown” and that there was closure to the book and their story (although room for more should the author want to delve back into their world).

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

*4.5 stars*

It all came down to trust…

And there was not much to go around. Onyx and Dagen had the same goal though you wouldn’t know it at first. He was one of three super powerful wolves, entrusted to keep the world safer. His world was about caution and paranoia – it has kept him alive for centuries and she was not going to get a pass. Onyx was a powerful mage and understood his attitude but that didn’t make it any easier. After all, she was his enemy and his mate…

This was the third in the trilogy and everything that had come before led to this moment. Solange and her lover were closing in and they were as ready as they were going to be. If only they could stay alive until the final battle… Full of action and suspense, and steamy connections, this was a satisfying conclusion to the lone wolves story. If the end seemed a bit abrupt, the HEA they all had made up for it… Another great series by this author.

*I happily reviewed this story
**Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing

[Gabriella · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tempting the Black Wolf by N.J. Walters is an intoxicating paranormal romance that pulls you in from the first chapter. The chemistry between the lead characters is intense and electrifying, with a slow-burn passion that feels both dangerous and irresistible. Walters does a fantastic job balancing the dark, brooding elements of the wolf shifter world with heartfelt emotional stakes.

The world-building is vivid and atmospheric, blending supernatural lore with raw, primal energy. The characters are compelling and layered—flawed, fierce, and unforgettable—and their journey from mistrust to desire is full of tension, twists, and satisfying emotional payoff.

Overall, this book is perfect for readers who love shifter romances with a strong dose of heat, danger, and emotional depth. I devoured this one and can’t wait to see what happens next in the series.