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Ursa Shifters #6
Choose The Bears
I met a man and a bear in the woods, and I chose the bear.
Not just one either, but three hot bear shifters.
No sooner had I escaped my awful ex when a creepy stranger advances on me in the woods. I’m alone, exposed, vulnerable… until three massive men come charging out of nowhere to save me.
And when the creepy stranger turns scary stalker, they insist on sticking around to offer their protection.
It feels too good to be true, having them appear just when I needed them and having them offer everything I’ve always wanted. So I keep waiting for the other shoe to drop. For these three men to reveal themselves to be monsters as well.
But what if the scariest thought of all is one day losing them? What if I didn’t get to choose the bears, because they’ve already chosen me?
This is a standalone romance with a new FMC.
Not just one either, but three hot bear shifters.
No sooner had I escaped my awful ex when a creepy stranger advances on me in the woods. I’m alone, exposed, vulnerable… until three massive men come charging out of nowhere to save me.
And when the creepy stranger turns scary stalker, they insist on sticking around to offer their protection.
It feels too good to be true, having them appear just when I needed them and having them offer everything I’ve always wanted. So I keep waiting for the other shoe to drop. For these three men to reveal themselves to be monsters as well.
But what if the scariest thought of all is one day losing them? What if I didn’t get to choose the bears, because they’ve already chosen me?
This is a standalone romance with a new FMC.
472 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 16, 2024
773 people are currently reading
491 people want to read
About the author
Sam Hall
74 books2,046 followersAustralian author of paranormal RH novels
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
October 29, 2024
Genre: Adult PNR (bear shifters)
Spice: 2.5/5 🌶️ (my rating is relative to other books of the same genre)
Tropes & themes: reverse harem style why-choose (no MM), fated mates, bear shifter MMCs, inexperienced MMCs because they’ve been waiting for their mate, traumatized FMC (deals with issues pertaining to domestic violence), touch her and die, unique bear peen, and more.
Please consult TWs/CWs for this one 🩶
Spoiler-free Summary:
Imogen finally had everything in place to leave her relationship; money saved up, an apartment leased, and a weekend without her boyfriend to slip away in the night. But all her plans go belly side up when her boyfriend makes her drive him and his buddy out to the woods, where she has to make the literal choice between a man, or the bears.
Thoughts:
First and foremost, I was so invested in Imogen’s story and how she would come to accept her mates, Asher, Lucas, and Kyle. When we meet Imogen, she’s at a threshold in her life for breaking the cycle of abuse. Her character shows so much vulnerability and strength, and Sam wrote the intricacies of a person with trauma in such a way that it felt so genuine and real. It was both emotional and exciting to experience Imogen crossing that threshold with her eyes and heart wide open.
As for the bear boys, Asher, Lucas, and Kyle: you can expect the same deep devotion, care, and patience from Sam’s Consent King bear shifters. Each one of the men are considerate and emotionally intelligent, knowing exactly when to be flexible with Imogen, and when to push her. I thought their careers as men who help women in tough situations was also a really lovely addition.
I thought Imogen’s experiences with abuse, and the experiences of the other women in this story, were all handled with care.
What is different about this book as compared to the other Ursa Shifter books in the series is the incredibly interesting (and totally appreciated) heavy involvement of the other kinds of shifters (foxes, wolves, and more!). Sam takes this world in a whole different direction, adding in communities and so many possible avenues for future stories. I am very excited and hopeful that we’ll get to see more!
Spice: 2.5/5 🌶️ (my rating is relative to other books of the same genre)
Tropes & themes: reverse harem style why-choose (no MM), fated mates, bear shifter MMCs, inexperienced MMCs because they’ve been waiting for their mate, traumatized FMC (deals with issues pertaining to domestic violence), touch her and die, unique bear peen, and more.
Please consult TWs/CWs for this one 🩶
Spoiler-free Summary:
Imogen finally had everything in place to leave her relationship; money saved up, an apartment leased, and a weekend without her boyfriend to slip away in the night. But all her plans go belly side up when her boyfriend makes her drive him and his buddy out to the woods, where she has to make the literal choice between a man, or the bears.
Thoughts:
First and foremost, I was so invested in Imogen’s story and how she would come to accept her mates, Asher, Lucas, and Kyle. When we meet Imogen, she’s at a threshold in her life for breaking the cycle of abuse. Her character shows so much vulnerability and strength, and Sam wrote the intricacies of a person with trauma in such a way that it felt so genuine and real. It was both emotional and exciting to experience Imogen crossing that threshold with her eyes and heart wide open.
As for the bear boys, Asher, Lucas, and Kyle: you can expect the same deep devotion, care, and patience from Sam’s Consent King bear shifters. Each one of the men are considerate and emotionally intelligent, knowing exactly when to be flexible with Imogen, and when to push her. I thought their careers as men who help women in tough situations was also a really lovely addition.
I thought Imogen’s experiences with abuse, and the experiences of the other women in this story, were all handled with care.
What is different about this book as compared to the other Ursa Shifter books in the series is the incredibly interesting (and totally appreciated) heavy involvement of the other kinds of shifters (foxes, wolves, and more!). Sam takes this world in a whole different direction, adding in communities and so many possible avenues for future stories. I am very excited and hopeful that we’ll get to see more!
October 26, 2024
Solid addition to this series, and it opened up some really interesting possibilities for more books in the series (which the author was sure to warn readers was up to them to generate interest in or the series would be dropped...not really into that kind of "motivation").
I really love that the FMC was so open to having fated mates. Because she was so into shifter fiction herself, she felt like her wildest dreams were coming true, and she was completely accepting of her mates when she realized they were meant to be hers. It's a viewpoint we don't get often in shifter fiction, and I found it fun to read. I did worry a little bit that it would have a twist of her suddenly being terrified when she found out fiction was real like in Blood and Chocolate, but was glad it didn't go down like that. The moments with her showing her mates how accepting she was were very sweet.
I also love that all three of them were so devoted to her even before they knew who she was.
Another thing I really liked was the theme. The author stated that this was written after getting many messages because of the man or bear question that's huge right now, and she answered that with not one but three bears in the woods. And then ❌SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER❌ it all ended in the shifter community as a whole being exposed by bear shifters, meaning the entire world now has a different view of the man or bear question, and future fated mates of bear sleuths won't be finding out about shifters from scratch anymore.
If any other books are added to this series, things will be very interesting.
Oh, and am I mistaken, or did ❌SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER❌ Ursula seem to have fox shifters as possible mates at the end there?? 👀 PLEASE I'd love it if that's the case.
Okay, and what kept it at 3 stars for me? A few things:
❌MORE SPOILERS❌
It went on and on and on and nothing really happened. They talked a lot. The FMC didn't deal with any of the trauma she had from her abusive relationship although there was a lot of talk of her needing to. The ex basically moved on for the majority of the book, and the main bad guy/stalker was only partially interested in her at all, and really wanted his (ex?) wife or whoever was her stand-in in front of him at the moment.
For all the favors Asher called in from the fox community, very little came of it, and especially at the end it was useless lmao. He had even called in the bear community, so how did they still get close enough to the building to park near the fire exit with no one stopping them?
Jesse randomly having multiple POVs in this book. I still haven't forgiven him for the last book, and while my interest was piqued seeing him so miserable and regretting his actions, I just....didn't care to see him in a book that wasn't his. Why was he here? I didn't need to see a whole lot of nothing happening to Phil (the bad guy) just to get Jess's POV. It felt unnecessary and took me out of the romance between the MCs every time. Also for a while I was terrified we'd find out he was this FMC's mate too lol.
And this has no bearing on my rating, but I was really annoyed when I saw this note randomly added before what I guess was supposed to be the epilogue:
"Author note: reading a lot of reviews has made clear that some readers get super upset if there’s any story threads left open, even for minor characters. They view this as a cliffhanger, though that’s not the actual definition of one. If you’re one of those people who’ll have a terrible reading experience if everything isn’t tied up in a neat little bow, don’t read any further."
I think authors forget sometimes that reviews aren't for them. They're for the readers. So if people want to warn other readers that the "standalone" they're thinking about reading has no resolution, like in the last book in this series (book 5), I see nothing wrong with that.
SPOILERS FOR BOOK 5:
That last book in this series was about Jesse's brother's sleuth, and his ex girlfriend, who he purposely strung along and was a jerk to, even knowing that she was his brother's sleuth's fated mate. He was cruel to her, used her, reveled in his brother's misery of watching his fated mate with his own brother every time he brought her home, etc. And their mother (who had her own fated mates and should have known better) supported that. She felt that because her son always had an easy life, he deserved less than her adopted son, who had a harder life similar to her before coming to them. And she said and did horrible and very public things to try to keep her son from his fated mate so that her other son could be "happy" with her instead. And there is no resolution to their story. Once the FMC leaves Jesse and realizes the brother and his sleuth are hers, they pretty much just go no contact with the mom and brother and live their lives while they continue to try to make them out as the villains. No resolution to how things turn out with the mom or brother, or if they ever feel sorry about their actions or change. Not even an epilogue years later to show that things are even moving towards resolution on any front. Nothing.
Which is why I think it's perfectly valid that readers were upset with that non-ending, and that trying to call readers out for including in their reviews the fact that they weren't given resolution for the only sources of conflict in a story doesn't sit right with me.
There was literally more resolution for them in THIS story, with completely unrelated characters, than in any of that book itself. Like honestly, if you hadn't read that book you'd be asking yourself who tf these characters were and why you should care. These are supposed to be standalones, not a duet. It's sad that nothing was taken away from those reviews (which, again, are for the READERS) except the thought that readers wanted everything tied up with a neat bow. Not really. We just wanted more than nothing.
I really love that the FMC was so open to having fated mates. Because she was so into shifter fiction herself, she felt like her wildest dreams were coming true, and she was completely accepting of her mates when she realized they were meant to be hers. It's a viewpoint we don't get often in shifter fiction, and I found it fun to read. I did worry a little bit that it would have a twist of her suddenly being terrified when she found out fiction was real like in Blood and Chocolate, but was glad it didn't go down like that. The moments with her showing her mates how accepting she was were very sweet.
I also love that all three of them were so devoted to her even before they knew who she was.
Another thing I really liked was the theme. The author stated that this was written after getting many messages because of the man or bear question that's huge right now, and she answered that with not one but three bears in the woods. And then ❌SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER❌ it all ended in the shifter community as a whole being exposed by bear shifters, meaning the entire world now has a different view of the man or bear question, and future fated mates of bear sleuths won't be finding out about shifters from scratch anymore.
If any other books are added to this series, things will be very interesting.
Oh, and am I mistaken, or did ❌SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER❌ Ursula seem to have fox shifters as possible mates at the end there?? 👀 PLEASE I'd love it if that's the case.
Okay, and what kept it at 3 stars for me? A few things:
❌MORE SPOILERS❌
It went on and on and on and nothing really happened. They talked a lot. The FMC didn't deal with any of the trauma she had from her abusive relationship although there was a lot of talk of her needing to. The ex basically moved on for the majority of the book, and the main bad guy/stalker was only partially interested in her at all, and really wanted his (ex?) wife or whoever was her stand-in in front of him at the moment.
For all the favors Asher called in from the fox community, very little came of it, and especially at the end it was useless lmao. He had even called in the bear community, so how did they still get close enough to the building to park near the fire exit with no one stopping them?
Jesse randomly having multiple POVs in this book. I still haven't forgiven him for the last book, and while my interest was piqued seeing him so miserable and regretting his actions, I just....didn't care to see him in a book that wasn't his. Why was he here? I didn't need to see a whole lot of nothing happening to Phil (the bad guy) just to get Jess's POV. It felt unnecessary and took me out of the romance between the MCs every time. Also for a while I was terrified we'd find out he was this FMC's mate too lol.
And this has no bearing on my rating, but I was really annoyed when I saw this note randomly added before what I guess was supposed to be the epilogue:
"Author note: reading a lot of reviews has made clear that some readers get super upset if there’s any story threads left open, even for minor characters. They view this as a cliffhanger, though that’s not the actual definition of one. If you’re one of those people who’ll have a terrible reading experience if everything isn’t tied up in a neat little bow, don’t read any further."
I think authors forget sometimes that reviews aren't for them. They're for the readers. So if people want to warn other readers that the "standalone" they're thinking about reading has no resolution, like in the last book in this series (book 5), I see nothing wrong with that.
SPOILERS FOR BOOK 5:
That last book in this series was about Jesse's brother's sleuth, and his ex girlfriend, who he purposely strung along and was a jerk to, even knowing that she was his brother's sleuth's fated mate. He was cruel to her, used her, reveled in his brother's misery of watching his fated mate with his own brother every time he brought her home, etc. And their mother (who had her own fated mates and should have known better) supported that. She felt that because her son always had an easy life, he deserved less than her adopted son, who had a harder life similar to her before coming to them. And she said and did horrible and very public things to try to keep her son from his fated mate so that her other son could be "happy" with her instead. And there is no resolution to their story. Once the FMC leaves Jesse and realizes the brother and his sleuth are hers, they pretty much just go no contact with the mom and brother and live their lives while they continue to try to make them out as the villains. No resolution to how things turn out with the mom or brother, or if they ever feel sorry about their actions or change. Not even an epilogue years later to show that things are even moving towards resolution on any front. Nothing.
Which is why I think it's perfectly valid that readers were upset with that non-ending, and that trying to call readers out for including in their reviews the fact that they weren't given resolution for the only sources of conflict in a story doesn't sit right with me.
There was literally more resolution for them in THIS story, with completely unrelated characters, than in any of that book itself. Like honestly, if you hadn't read that book you'd be asking yourself who tf these characters were and why you should care. These are supposed to be standalones, not a duet. It's sad that nothing was taken away from those reviews (which, again, are for the READERS) except the thought that readers wanted everything tied up with a neat bow. Not really. We just wanted more than nothing.
October 6, 2025
Growls, Grit, and Aussie Accents
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚💜💙🩷❤️
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌍
Character development: 😋🙂☺️😘🥰
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Dual Narration
🦸🏼♀️ Heroine Spotlight: Imogen
Imogen’s story begins in a grocery store and a suffocating apartment she shares with Mike—a man whose only consistent traits are laziness, drunkenness, and a talent for undoing her hard work in seconds. She’s been quietly saving, dreaming of escape, and finally gets the call: her new apartment is hers. But before she can pack up and leave, Mike and his unsettling buddy Phil hijack her plans with a fishing trip demand—complete with booze and coercion. Imogen’s strength is quiet but fierce, and her moment of reckoning is near.
🦸🏻♂️ Hero Spotlight: Kyle, Lucas, and Asher
Enter the sleuth: three bear shifters with hearts as big as their paws. Kyle, Lucas, and Asher run a sanctuary for women and children escaping abuse, and when they find Imogen cornered in the woods, they don’t hesitate. They intervene, protect, and recognize her instantly—not just as someone in need, but as their fated mate. Their protective instincts are matched by their emotional intelligence, and their knowledge of Phil’s past makes their rescue all the more urgent.
📃 Plot Pulse
Even after Imogen moves out, Mike and Phil won’t let go. They show up at her workplace, proving that control—not love—was always their motive. Kyle, Lucas, and Asher stand firm, shielding her from the fallout and offering the kind of support that’s both physical and emotional. The story doesn’t shy away from the reality: abusers rarely go quietly, and healing requires more than just distance—it needs safety, community, and compassion.
💘 What Hit Home
• This story struck a deeply personal chord. Years ago, I walked away from my own abusive marriage. Unlike Imogen, I didn’t have three swoony shifters to back me up—but I felt every beat of her fear, her resolve, and her relief.
• The sleuth’s dedication to helping women was beautifully portrayed. They run a refuge, intervene in dangerous situations, and use sports to teach kids empathy and protection. Dodgeball as a metaphor for shielding the vulnerable? Brilliant.
• Imogen’s love for paranormal romance made her reaction to the shifter reveal feel authentic and endearing. She was ready for magic—and she got it.
• Jesse’s introduction was jarring at first. His POV chapters felt disconnected until I realized he was a redemption arc from the previous book. Once I pieced it together, I wanted more of him—a bear shifter without a bear, living among foxes, working as a mechanic? Intriguing. His growth was subtle but satisfying.
🧐 What Fell Flat
• The Mike and Phil drama dragged on longer than I’d hoped. I craved more emotional depth between Imogen and the sleuth, and less time spent on toxic masculinity. The payoff came, but the pacing tested my patience.
• I did wonder how the sleuth funded their expansive efforts. They never seemed short on cash, and a bit more backstory there would’ve grounded the fantasy in realism.
🎧 Narration Notes
Sofia Lette and Djorje Swallow deliver a solid performance, each bringing their own flavor to the multiple POVs. Their Australian accents were a personal delight—my favorite, hands down. I do wish the narration had been duet-style for smoother transitions, and while Djorje struggled a bit with character differentiation, the overall experience was immersive and emotionally resonant.
📝 Final Takeaway
This audiobook blends paranormal romance with real-world grit, offering catharsis, empowerment, and a trio of protective heroes who redefine what it means to be strong. Imogen’s journey is one of reclaiming agency, and the sleuth’s unwavering support makes it all the more powerful. A must-listen for anyone who’s ever fought to be free—and dreamed of finding love on the other side.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚💜💙🩷❤️
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌍
Character development: 😋🙂☺️😘🥰
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Dual Narration
🦸🏼♀️ Heroine Spotlight: Imogen
Imogen’s story begins in a grocery store and a suffocating apartment she shares with Mike—a man whose only consistent traits are laziness, drunkenness, and a talent for undoing her hard work in seconds. She’s been quietly saving, dreaming of escape, and finally gets the call: her new apartment is hers. But before she can pack up and leave, Mike and his unsettling buddy Phil hijack her plans with a fishing trip demand—complete with booze and coercion. Imogen’s strength is quiet but fierce, and her moment of reckoning is near.
🦸🏻♂️ Hero Spotlight: Kyle, Lucas, and Asher
Enter the sleuth: three bear shifters with hearts as big as their paws. Kyle, Lucas, and Asher run a sanctuary for women and children escaping abuse, and when they find Imogen cornered in the woods, they don’t hesitate. They intervene, protect, and recognize her instantly—not just as someone in need, but as their fated mate. Their protective instincts are matched by their emotional intelligence, and their knowledge of Phil’s past makes their rescue all the more urgent.
📃 Plot Pulse
Even after Imogen moves out, Mike and Phil won’t let go. They show up at her workplace, proving that control—not love—was always their motive. Kyle, Lucas, and Asher stand firm, shielding her from the fallout and offering the kind of support that’s both physical and emotional. The story doesn’t shy away from the reality: abusers rarely go quietly, and healing requires more than just distance—it needs safety, community, and compassion.
💘 What Hit Home
• This story struck a deeply personal chord. Years ago, I walked away from my own abusive marriage. Unlike Imogen, I didn’t have three swoony shifters to back me up—but I felt every beat of her fear, her resolve, and her relief.
• The sleuth’s dedication to helping women was beautifully portrayed. They run a refuge, intervene in dangerous situations, and use sports to teach kids empathy and protection. Dodgeball as a metaphor for shielding the vulnerable? Brilliant.
• Imogen’s love for paranormal romance made her reaction to the shifter reveal feel authentic and endearing. She was ready for magic—and she got it.
• Jesse’s introduction was jarring at first. His POV chapters felt disconnected until I realized he was a redemption arc from the previous book. Once I pieced it together, I wanted more of him—a bear shifter without a bear, living among foxes, working as a mechanic? Intriguing. His growth was subtle but satisfying.
🧐 What Fell Flat
• The Mike and Phil drama dragged on longer than I’d hoped. I craved more emotional depth between Imogen and the sleuth, and less time spent on toxic masculinity. The payoff came, but the pacing tested my patience.
• I did wonder how the sleuth funded their expansive efforts. They never seemed short on cash, and a bit more backstory there would’ve grounded the fantasy in realism.
🎧 Narration Notes
Sofia Lette and Djorje Swallow deliver a solid performance, each bringing their own flavor to the multiple POVs. Their Australian accents were a personal delight—my favorite, hands down. I do wish the narration had been duet-style for smoother transitions, and while Djorje struggled a bit with character differentiation, the overall experience was immersive and emotionally resonant.
📝 Final Takeaway
This audiobook blends paranormal romance with real-world grit, offering catharsis, empowerment, and a trio of protective heroes who redefine what it means to be strong. Imogen’s journey is one of reclaiming agency, and the sleuth’s unwavering support makes it all the more powerful. A must-listen for anyone who’s ever fought to be free—and dreamed of finding love on the other side.
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October 16, 2024
This book has a lot to work thru if you're an abuse survivor and I have to admit that the 1st chapter or 2 were hard for me to process because Sam Hall writes so well you JUST FEEL those emotions! But after pushing through you get another wonderful RH with a beautiful HEA & more than enough reasons to Choose The Bear 😉💜💜💜 I look forward to many more Ursa books!
November 10, 2024
Damn while this was such a good addition to this series it’s also very frustrating. I complained that #4 was a snooze fest and this absolutely was NOT. I loved the handling of DV without it being overly cheesy, it was really cathartic even almost a decade out of my “Imogen/Mike” relationship. The focus is definitely more on healing and the shelter than the romantic relationship but it was a good story. That did leave me feeling a slight lack of depth to the characters but they weren’t one dimensional. So overall a good read!
Except it opens a redemption arc for a #5 character, and a whooolllleeee new giant overarching plotline only to say “well if it gets enough attention I’ll expand, if not, onto new things!” 😱
SPOILERS AHEAD
I get it, but I do not like it because I feel like both could have been excluded completely and this book could still have the same HEA. Jesse’s POV didn’t need to exist for the Phil subplot to go the same way down to it even being Jesse delivering him.
And the overreaction to calling in every shifter and favor ever that leads to the reveal could have just been small backup. It was two human alcoholic dirtbags not a coordinated enemy. Phil and Mike could still steal Imogen and get caught by the cops/the bear boys without a 200 shifter biker high speed chase complete with news helicopters and the reveal of shifters to the human world.
Those were my thoughts while reading, the end authors note just solidified it. It just feels shitty to maybe open up the series for more if you don’t want to write it. Obviously it’s a business decision and I’m not delusional to think authors only write out of the love in their hearts, it just feels like a decision that could have been made prior and the book edited to reflect that. Y’know?
Except it opens a redemption arc for a #5 character, and a whooolllleeee new giant overarching plotline only to say “well if it gets enough attention I’ll expand, if not, onto new things!” 😱
SPOILERS AHEAD
I get it, but I do not like it because I feel like both could have been excluded completely and this book could still have the same HEA. Jesse’s POV didn’t need to exist for the Phil subplot to go the same way down to it even being Jesse delivering him.
And the overreaction to calling in every shifter and favor ever that leads to the reveal could have just been small backup. It was two human alcoholic dirtbags not a coordinated enemy. Phil and Mike could still steal Imogen and get caught by the cops/the bear boys without a 200 shifter biker high speed chase complete with news helicopters and the reveal of shifters to the human world.
Those were my thoughts while reading, the end authors note just solidified it. It just feels shitty to maybe open up the series for more if you don’t want to write it. Obviously it’s a business decision and I’m not delusional to think authors only write out of the love in their hearts, it just feels like a decision that could have been made prior and the book edited to reflect that. Y’know?
October 14, 2024
✨Standalone (Interconnected series)
✨Why-Choose
✨PRN
✨Bookworm FMC
✨Bear shifters
✨Fated mates
✨They fall first
✨Owners of a abuse survivors facility for women and children
❗️TW: Abuse survivor, mention of killing by one of the MC, mention of rape. (Please check the full list of TW).
There is not missing while reading Sam’s books. Like always (especially in her shifter stories) she does a great job portraying the feels of all the characters.
Our story starts by our FMC, Imogen, that is trying to get out of a toxic and abusive relationship and has everything ready to leave but her plans took a turn when she gets put in a tricky situation alone with a friend of her boyfriend and our MMC’s that where there by chance come to te rescue.
Asher, Kyle and Lucas came across her fated mate in a bad situation with a really bad man that becomes a little obsessed in her and intervene and saves her. They help move her stuff out of her old apartment that she lived with her ex-boyfriend into her new one.
They became extremely close but at the same time she was wary about why there were helping her so much and what did they want in return.
Their relationship evolved so beautifully and I just loved that when she discovers the truth about them she embraces it and isn’t afraid of them. This has to do with the fact that she loves reading PRN romance books so she was always hoping to get something similar.
This story ends in HEA, but I would really recommend to read the previous books in the series (especially “Cross the Bear”) because we have a lot of cameos and also POVs with some characters of previous books.
I really hope we can have more books in these series especially after the fact that they don’t need to hide from the world anymore. I love this series, they are my favorite books especially for the dynamic of the sleuths being completely devoted to their fated mates.
*I RECEIVED AN ARC OF THIS BOOK AND THIS IS MY HONEST REVIEW*
✨Why-Choose
✨PRN
✨Bookworm FMC
✨Bear shifters
✨Fated mates
✨They fall first
✨Owners of a abuse survivors facility for women and children
❗️TW: Abuse survivor, mention of killing by one of the MC, mention of rape. (Please check the full list of TW).
There is not missing while reading Sam’s books. Like always (especially in her shifter stories) she does a great job portraying the feels of all the characters.
Our story starts by our FMC, Imogen, that is trying to get out of a toxic and abusive relationship and has everything ready to leave but her plans took a turn when she gets put in a tricky situation alone with a friend of her boyfriend and our MMC’s that where there by chance come to te rescue.
Asher, Kyle and Lucas came across her fated mate in a bad situation with a really bad man that becomes a little obsessed in her and intervene and saves her. They help move her stuff out of her old apartment that she lived with her ex-boyfriend into her new one.
They became extremely close but at the same time she was wary about why there were helping her so much and what did they want in return.
Their relationship evolved so beautifully and I just loved that when she discovers the truth about them she embraces it and isn’t afraid of them. This has to do with the fact that she loves reading PRN romance books so she was always hoping to get something similar.
This story ends in HEA, but I would really recommend to read the previous books in the series (especially “Cross the Bear”) because we have a lot of cameos and also POVs with some characters of previous books.
I really hope we can have more books in these series especially after the fact that they don’t need to hide from the world anymore. I love this series, they are my favorite books especially for the dynamic of the sleuths being completely devoted to their fated mates.
*I RECEIVED AN ARC OF THIS BOOK AND THIS IS MY HONEST REVIEW*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2024
If you're a Sam Hall fan or just a fan of the Ursa series then you do not want to miss Choose the Bears.
Imogen is an abuse survivor but she doesn't consider herself one because it's really hard to pinpoint emotional abuse as abuse. Sometimes it's done in subtle ways so society tells the victim to shake it off. It's the little things that systematically broke Imogen down without her even realizing it. One thing that we can agree on by now is that (for the most part) the bears are great partners and Imogen's is no different. I love the guys. Asher has been talked about in previous books, and I really enjoyed finally getting his story.
This book checked off some really big things for me. Imogen being a paranormal romance book lover, is a girl after my own heart which made her relatable. I finally get a MFC whose reaction I've been waiting for, mostly because it's the way I would but also because the MFCs never react that way to the big secret drop. Lastly, there was only a little angst in the relationship department so I could relax and watch the relationship unfold. It was great, Sam got major points for this book.
My world was rocked after Choose the Bears. I didn't see this coming. Sam is full of surprises. There was some major world development, turns out it's a lot more complex than I realized. There were guest appearances, an unexpected character development (which I see being a possible future book, fingers crossed) and an update that I reluctantly admit that I enjoyed. After this madness I can't wait to see how this world progresses.
Imogen is an abuse survivor but she doesn't consider herself one because it's really hard to pinpoint emotional abuse as abuse. Sometimes it's done in subtle ways so society tells the victim to shake it off. It's the little things that systematically broke Imogen down without her even realizing it. One thing that we can agree on by now is that (for the most part) the bears are great partners and Imogen's is no different. I love the guys. Asher has been talked about in previous books, and I really enjoyed finally getting his story.
This book checked off some really big things for me. Imogen being a paranormal romance book lover, is a girl after my own heart which made her relatable. I finally get a MFC whose reaction I've been waiting for, mostly because it's the way I would but also because the MFCs never react that way to the big secret drop. Lastly, there was only a little angst in the relationship department so I could relax and watch the relationship unfold. It was great, Sam got major points for this book.
My world was rocked after Choose the Bears. I didn't see this coming. Sam is full of surprises. There was some major world development, turns out it's a lot more complex than I realized. There were guest appearances, an unexpected character development (which I see being a possible future book, fingers crossed) and an update that I reluctantly admit that I enjoyed. After this madness I can't wait to see how this world progresses.
July 21, 2025
The author starts in her "Forewords" with saying that she knows that all her books has been about trauma.
And it can have been triggering to read all her books since this topic is the plot of every story!
It was never her intension. She just wanted to show that trauma and recovering is different for everybody. That's fair.
But then she continues to say that she will tone the abuse down to the minimum.
And we as readers, if we don't like this book. We can try our own crack to write a book.
- - -
I didn't think the guys in this book connected well with our female lead. They had nothing in common except one guy liked to read comics. There were no romance. The insta-love was more insta-protective.
But what does all the bear shifters work with in this book?!
They run their own "women escape headquarters" for abused women.
And our main girl is running from two abusive men.
Everything is about abuse. It is very vivid abuse, that has been recorded and is stored on someone's laptop, abuse against women like hitting and grabbing them, abuse against children, hitting their face. Not at all toned down. This is probably the most abusive book in the series.
I'm done.
- - -
The author also writes comments in this book, to the readers in the beginning of some chapters. Which is a sign of a weak plot. The author has to defend the story, inside the story! Breaking the 5th wall!!
And we got POV from Jesse, one of the emotional abusive ex-boyfriend from previous books.
I don't five a f****ck about him.
1/5 stars.
Bear bye.
And it can have been triggering to read all her books since this topic is the plot of every story!
It was never her intension. She just wanted to show that trauma and recovering is different for everybody. That's fair.
But then she continues to say that she will tone the abuse down to the minimum.
And we as readers, if we don't like this book. We can try our own crack to write a book.
- - -
I didn't think the guys in this book connected well with our female lead. They had nothing in common except one guy liked to read comics. There were no romance. The insta-love was more insta-protective.
But what does all the bear shifters work with in this book?!
They run their own "women escape headquarters" for abused women.
And our main girl is running from two abusive men.
Everything is about abuse. It is very vivid abuse, that has been recorded and is stored on someone's laptop, abuse against women like hitting and grabbing them, abuse against children, hitting their face. Not at all toned down. This is probably the most abusive book in the series.
I'm done.
- - -
The author also writes comments in this book, to the readers in the beginning of some chapters. Which is a sign of a weak plot. The author has to defend the story, inside the story! Breaking the 5th wall!!
And we got POV from Jesse, one of the emotional abusive ex-boyfriend from previous books.
I don't five a f****ck about him.
1/5 stars.
Bear bye.
October 15, 2024
We are back with the Ursa Shifters and this one doesn’t disappoint. We meet Imogen and right from the very beginning you can feel her emotions as well as her pain and struggles. But, behind all that you also feel a strength that is hidden deep inside. We meet Asher, Kyle and Lucas quickly into the story. I loved that we are able to learn more about our wonderful characters early into the book as it seems to give a bigger connection to them. I am not one who will give all the details in a review a I really do not enjoy reading a review that basically lets me have read the book from said review. So, with that being said I will say this book is one crazy emotional ride. We journey alongside these amazing characters feeling what they feel and seeing what they see. Sam Hall writes with her whole heart and soul into a story and we as the readers feel that in every book she writes. This story is no different. It drew me in from the beginning and didn’t let go until I reached the end. It is jammed packed with drama and, suspense, and action. It is a story that will have you on the edge of your seat. I absolutely loved how it ends and I absolutely fell in love with all these amazing characters. I was happy to see some of the characters from previous Ursa stories. This is definitely a fantastic read.
October 24, 2024
More ursa shifters please
One thing that always gets me about Sam Hall's books is that despite the different character, different stories and one aspects, I always find something that I can relate to. This one I could really relate to how wrong the relationship with Mike went. I've been there, I know what that gradual breakdown of self feels like, how you excuse it bc it hasn't been physical so its "not that bad". Phil was his own kettle of awful and got his karma.
The end of this book could really turn this world upside down in future stories if we are lucky enough to get more.
One of my favorite things about the Ursa series as a whole, is how wonderful the kid's are. I love them and Kyle, Asher and Lucas are no exception to that. Imogen is so strong even when she thinks she's weak.
One thing that always gets me about Sam Hall's books is that despite the different character, different stories and one aspects, I always find something that I can relate to. This one I could really relate to how wrong the relationship with Mike went. I've been there, I know what that gradual breakdown of self feels like, how you excuse it bc it hasn't been physical so its "not that bad". Phil was his own kettle of awful and got his karma.
The end of this book could really turn this world upside down in future stories if we are lucky enough to get more.
One of my favorite things about the Ursa series as a whole, is how wonderful the kid's are. I love them and Kyle, Asher and Lucas are no exception to that. Imogen is so strong even when she thinks she's weak.
October 29, 2024
This book blew my mind!
Did I know there would be an HEA? Yes. That’s how Sam Hall rolls.
Did I think she could redeem a prior character I thought sucked? I did not. But boy did she!! It’s a secondary character. The primary MCs are all new.
Things I loved:
- Further built out the Ursa world
- Gave us some cameos from the other book
- Totally different circumstances than any of the other Ursa books ie no formula
- Good spice without it being every other page
- SUCH a good story - period. The author is frankly genius at writing the small intricacies and dynamics of people.
Are there things I would’ve loved a little more? One tiny thing - a character I’d have want to know a little more about. But I wouldn’t have even noticed if it wasn’t for the fact that I’m writing more reviews lately 🤣🤪
Honestly, each book in this series keeps getting better and better for me!
Did I know there would be an HEA? Yes. That’s how Sam Hall rolls.
Did I think she could redeem a prior character I thought sucked? I did not. But boy did she!! It’s a secondary character. The primary MCs are all new.
Things I loved:
- Further built out the Ursa world
- Gave us some cameos from the other book
- Totally different circumstances than any of the other Ursa books ie no formula
- Good spice without it being every other page
- SUCH a good story - period. The author is frankly genius at writing the small intricacies and dynamics of people.
Are there things I would’ve loved a little more? One tiny thing - a character I’d have want to know a little more about. But I wouldn’t have even noticed if it wasn’t for the fact that I’m writing more reviews lately 🤣🤪
Honestly, each book in this series keeps getting better and better for me!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2025
Easily a 250 page story stuffed full of unrelated nonsense. Overly grandiose with its unexpected ending and direction for future series. Again the bad guy was over the top bad which is tedious to read.
I did not read the ONE previous book, and that was apparently a mistake because I didn't know who this side character, Jesse, was. Nor did I give a rat's ass about his redemption arc. Which by the way didn't even conclude so I can only guess that there's a book for him coming up soon.
In the end, too much extraneous stuff and not enough spent on the character of Kyle. It was an okay read. And I will admit she did a decent job portraying the psyche of someone trying to live with or escape from an abusive significant other.
I did not read the ONE previous book, and that was apparently a mistake because I didn't know who this side character, Jesse, was. Nor did I give a rat's ass about his redemption arc. Which by the way didn't even conclude so I can only guess that there's a book for him coming up soon.
In the end, too much extraneous stuff and not enough spent on the character of Kyle. It was an okay read. And I will admit she did a decent job portraying the psyche of someone trying to live with or escape from an abusive significant other.
October 18, 2024
I lost a lot of sleep inhaling this book! It was just too good to put down. I can sincerely give it 5 enthusiastic stars on action/pace, character development, unique plot, and 4.5 delicious chili peppers of spice! I am not going to share all the reasons why I loved it because I keep my reviews spoiler-free!
SERIOUSLY, this might be my favorite book ever. Choose The Bears features all the things I always love of Sam Hall's writing (hopelessly devoted mates, super sweet and spicy romance, women with brains and grit, fast-paced action, etc.) while also giving us some newness to shake / freshen up the series! If you think you know how this story is going to go because you've read the rest of the Ursa Shifters series, YOU DO NOT!
I want to say so much more, but I can't. If you are a fan of PNR, reverse harem, shifter romance, or fated mates AT ALL, even if you've never picked up a Sam Hall book before, do yourself a favor and read this book. 😍
SERIOUSLY, this might be my favorite book ever. Choose The Bears features all the things I always love of Sam Hall's writing (hopelessly devoted mates, super sweet and spicy romance, women with brains and grit, fast-paced action, etc.) while also giving us some newness to shake / freshen up the series! If you think you know how this story is going to go because you've read the rest of the Ursa Shifters series, YOU DO NOT!
I want to say so much more, but I can't. If you are a fan of PNR, reverse harem, shifter romance, or fated mates AT ALL, even if you've never picked up a Sam Hall book before, do yourself a favor and read this book. 😍
February 16, 2025
I'm rating this 3.5 but rounding up because I'm not sure if it's me going through a reading slump or just getting bored or if the book really did slow down and become unengaging, or what's going on.
I really enjoyed this up until Imogen got with her fated mates, then it was a slog for a while, until the ending, which was very interesting. I liked that Imogen was a paranormal reader so she much more easily accepted being a paranormal being's fated mate, that was a nice twist.
I made a note that some of the sex scenes were incredibly emotional and satisfying.
I really enjoyed this up until Imogen got with her fated mates, then it was a slog for a while, until the ending, which was very interesting. I liked that Imogen was a paranormal reader so she much more easily accepted being a paranormal being's fated mate, that was a nice twist.
I made a note that some of the sex scenes were incredibly emotional and satisfying.
October 19, 2024
Another great book
Love this series. And loved this book.
Spice, why choose, shifters, drama, protectors....
Check your triggers warnings though as have topics are written about.
I really appreciated the take the author took on the FMCs coping behaviours (in both the book and the novella at the end).
I really hope we get more characters stories from this world.
Love this series. And loved this book.
Spice, why choose, shifters, drama, protectors....
Check your triggers warnings though as have topics are written about.
I really appreciated the take the author took on the FMCs coping behaviours (in both the book and the novella at the end).
I really hope we get more characters stories from this world.
October 21, 2024
This is definitely one of my new favorite shifter novels. 10/10, you must read. You won't regret it! There's a perfect mix of drama, smut, and character/relationship building. The spicy scenes are well written and very descriptive.. 🥵 I wouldn't mind finding out what happens with Imogen and her sleuth in the future. Also, URSULA?!?!? I need more!!
February 6, 2025
Emotional
This book in the series was very emotional and this author was incredible in the way they were able to write it in a way that was both enjoyable and interesting. I hope there will be more on this writer’s universe.
This book in the series was very emotional and this author was incredible in the way they were able to write it in a way that was both enjoyable and interesting. I hope there will be more on this writer’s universe.
December 3, 2024
Can't say I'd ever read a bear shifter book before but I can say that I really enjoyed it! I would choose the bear too ;)
February 11, 2025
I enjoyed the story, but had a few issues with it.
Imogen was a big fan of paranormal romance, so why didn't we meet the bears in the woods at the beginning? It would be so much better than just three guys coming out of the woods to save her ;)
The fact that she instantly accepted them when they finally told her that they were shifters made me think how much more interesting the whole book would be if she met them as the bears first.
I was happy to see Jesse was trying hard to get his shit together, but I think that all of his POVs could be in his own book. I was glad that I read the series one after the other, because if I was reading this book after a longer break I wouldn't remember all the shit that went down with him, Maddie, Bjorn and his sleuth, and their mother.
It was a bit shitty to warn us that it would be the end of the series if the book doesn't sell well ;) with the shifter reveal the world just began to get interesting.
Imogen was a big fan of paranormal romance, so why didn't we meet the bears in the woods at the beginning? It would be so much better than just three guys coming out of the woods to save her ;)
The fact that she instantly accepted them when they finally told her that they were shifters made me think how much more interesting the whole book would be if she met them as the bears first.
I was happy to see Jesse was trying hard to get his shit together, but I think that all of his POVs could be in his own book. I was glad that I read the series one after the other, because if I was reading this book after a longer break I wouldn't remember all the shit that went down with him, Maddie, Bjorn and his sleuth, and their mother.
It was a bit shitty to warn us that it would be the end of the series if the book doesn't sell well ;) with the shifter reveal the world just began to get interesting.
October 21, 2024
A halfway decent shifter book, but it's not really up to Sam Hall's usual standards. It felt a little too forced and convenient. While there's definitely some drama, things click into place a little too easily for the characters. And my goodness, get ready for the slowest burn of your life, with a lot of dancing around any real action happening. And in the first part of this book during this slow burn, some real shitty stuff happens. The FMC has just come out of a horrible relationship, where she was definitely being abused (not physically) and then things escalate when she leaves her ex. But not with the ex himself, but rather, one of his friends who has a dark past and history. If S.A. or abuse in general isn't something that you can tolerate, this book really isn't for you. Even though Sam Hall writes a hell of a bear shifter book, talk of abuse, past and present is really prevalent in this book. Especially because the sleuth runs a crisis center for women and families who are escaping awful situations. So it's not even an in the background kind of thing, it's up close and personal.
One of the things that I don't understand in shifter books like this is why they wait so long to tell their fated mate (since they know like instantly) that she's their fated mate and what that means and entails. And the bears in this story had a perfect in after Imogen told them that she WANTED a fated mate type of situation after they find her paranormal reading stash. And I get that they wanted to wait until an appropriate time and all that given that Imogen has just gone through a major life event/trauma, but I feel like that was the perfect in! They've already infiltrated her life and are doing way more than they normally would for a case … and Imogen has definitely noticed. Explaining things to her would have been the perfect reason for why they were acting how they were and maybe even allowed them to continue without seeming so damn hover-y.
And thank goodness that Imogen is understanding and already has a basic knowledge of shifters from reading all of her smutty romance novels. (See, smut CAN pay off!) I've never read about a character in a shifter novel accepting their bond as quickly as Imogen does. And honestly, I don't understand why all characters aren't immediately on board like she is. Multiple men who are devoted to you and your every need and pleasure??! Sign me the fuck up. And I love that this was Imogen's attitude about the whole thing. I related to that way more than the characters that have all sorts of hesitation about having devoted and emotionally available men. Get your heads out of your asses.
I understand the connection of having Jesse brought back into the books, but I just honestly didn't care about his storyline or the fact that he's improving or getting a redemption arc. I also didn't really remember who he was because his story was so long ago. Even though he's loosely connected to a side character that is pertinent to Imogen's story, I feel like the author could have followed Phil Jackson in a way that didn't include Jesse, but I'm sure that re-including him is leading up to another story where Jesse is a main character. And I'm not really sure that I want that story.
I absolutely LOVED the Baby Bears special book at the end of this book though! We get a look into Nat's life after having twins and good Lord, she is not having a good time. In a short amount of time, the author manages to encapsulate how freaking difficult it is being a mom, not just to one kid, but to multiple. And having multiple partners isn't really helping her in her current situation. Every mom who reads this will likely relate. It's freaking difficult and you feel so helpless so much of the time. The story focuses on how her sleuth and family rally to help her through this difficult time, but I really liked how real and raw it was! Loved that it didn't romanticize infancy and newborn life, and how amazing her partners are to admit that they didn't know what they were doing and that they needed help. It really does take a village!
One of the things that I don't understand in shifter books like this is why they wait so long to tell their fated mate (since they know like instantly) that she's their fated mate and what that means and entails. And the bears in this story had a perfect in after Imogen told them that she WANTED a fated mate type of situation after they find her paranormal reading stash. And I get that they wanted to wait until an appropriate time and all that given that Imogen has just gone through a major life event/trauma, but I feel like that was the perfect in! They've already infiltrated her life and are doing way more than they normally would for a case … and Imogen has definitely noticed. Explaining things to her would have been the perfect reason for why they were acting how they were and maybe even allowed them to continue without seeming so damn hover-y.
And thank goodness that Imogen is understanding and already has a basic knowledge of shifters from reading all of her smutty romance novels. (See, smut CAN pay off!) I've never read about a character in a shifter novel accepting their bond as quickly as Imogen does. And honestly, I don't understand why all characters aren't immediately on board like she is. Multiple men who are devoted to you and your every need and pleasure??! Sign me the fuck up. And I love that this was Imogen's attitude about the whole thing. I related to that way more than the characters that have all sorts of hesitation about having devoted and emotionally available men. Get your heads out of your asses.
I understand the connection of having Jesse brought back into the books, but I just honestly didn't care about his storyline or the fact that he's improving or getting a redemption arc. I also didn't really remember who he was because his story was so long ago. Even though he's loosely connected to a side character that is pertinent to Imogen's story, I feel like the author could have followed Phil Jackson in a way that didn't include Jesse, but I'm sure that re-including him is leading up to another story where Jesse is a main character. And I'm not really sure that I want that story.
I absolutely LOVED the Baby Bears special book at the end of this book though! We get a look into Nat's life after having twins and good Lord, she is not having a good time. In a short amount of time, the author manages to encapsulate how freaking difficult it is being a mom, not just to one kid, but to multiple. And having multiple partners isn't really helping her in her current situation. Every mom who reads this will likely relate. It's freaking difficult and you feel so helpless so much of the time. The story focuses on how her sleuth and family rally to help her through this difficult time, but I really liked how real and raw it was! Loved that it didn't romanticize infancy and newborn life, and how amazing her partners are to admit that they didn't know what they were doing and that they needed help. It really does take a village!
November 16, 2024
Choose the Bears
I don't read through reviews because it's the books I love reading which might be odd since I leave reviews, but I mostly just want authors to know how much I appreciate their work even when there are things in the stories that make me uncomfortable.
There's a comment in the beginning from the author about abuse. Having withstood some abuse, I can say I really appreciated the depiction of fawning. Not many people understand what this is but anyone who has done it knows how insidious and corrosive it is.
“Fight or flight were the terms used to explain people’s responses to a threat, but that had been expanded to ones that seemed to represent the experience of being a woman. Freeze, which I did now, not sure what I was seeing or what was happening, and fawn.”
This story does a really great job of addressing abuse. It won't match everyone's experience but it definitely rang true with mine and it absolutely helped me feel not so alone which is super powerful. Thank you, author. This also reverberated for me,
“Being an abuse survivor sometimes means you can’t trust a single one of your instincts because they have been corrupted by the person that fucked with you.”
I liked that the MFC totally embraces being the fated mate of bear shifters - she doesn't need the usual amount of drama to adjust. I also respect that the author is willing to change the whole world she's building by outing the shifters. That did not occur to me as a cliffhanger in any way. Rather, just something to look forward to. I also liked having Jesse's POV worked into the story - redemption arcs are always amazing to me (they're so rare in RL).
I kind of wish the characters were a little kinder to each other, especially the guys but I'm super sensitive so it's not really a criticism - just a thing that makes me go read another book in the middle of these books and then come back. (This is not the only author I do that with).
I don't read through reviews because it's the books I love reading which might be odd since I leave reviews, but I mostly just want authors to know how much I appreciate their work even when there are things in the stories that make me uncomfortable.
There's a comment in the beginning from the author about abuse. Having withstood some abuse, I can say I really appreciated the depiction of fawning. Not many people understand what this is but anyone who has done it knows how insidious and corrosive it is.
“Fight or flight were the terms used to explain people’s responses to a threat, but that had been expanded to ones that seemed to represent the experience of being a woman. Freeze, which I did now, not sure what I was seeing or what was happening, and fawn.”
This story does a really great job of addressing abuse. It won't match everyone's experience but it definitely rang true with mine and it absolutely helped me feel not so alone which is super powerful. Thank you, author. This also reverberated for me,
“Being an abuse survivor sometimes means you can’t trust a single one of your instincts because they have been corrupted by the person that fucked with you.”
I liked that the MFC totally embraces being the fated mate of bear shifters - she doesn't need the usual amount of drama to adjust. I also respect that the author is willing to change the whole world she's building by outing the shifters. That did not occur to me as a cliffhanger in any way. Rather, just something to look forward to. I also liked having Jesse's POV worked into the story - redemption arcs are always amazing to me (they're so rare in RL).
I kind of wish the characters were a little kinder to each other, especially the guys but I'm super sensitive so it's not really a criticism - just a thing that makes me go read another book in the middle of these books and then come back. (This is not the only author I do that with).
Read
October 20, 2024An amazing and heartfelt story
This was a bit of a hard one to get through. It was so amazing though! I was triggered by it briefly, helping me to push through some of my unacknowledged trauma. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for writing this, and the babies story.
Sam takes you through some tough stuff in this one, encapsulating why women "choose the bear." This book makes you think, and gives you all of the feels. Everyone can relate in some fashion. I'd have to say my favorite part was "Truth or Dare" with the guys. I love how they've built up this safe space for women and children, and how they all work together to help her. This book shows how so many of us don't thunk what we've gone through is a form of abuse, because were under the illusion (delusion) that what we experienced wasn't as bad as what someone else went through. It is, it just doesn't show externally. I'm glad she got the help she needed and faced her trauma. I loved seeing Jesse make a come back as well as so many previous characters.
I love all of the Ursa shifters series. I would love to read a book for Ursula and another for Jesse and Roxy. I can already see the struggles a bit, when it comes to who was involved at the end of this book. (No spoilers, never fear!)
Thank you as well for the babies' story with Nat and her slueth. What she went through is something so many mothers face, and just another aspect of mental health that doesn't get addressed enough, in my opinion. I struggled with the other side of things, where I wasn't able to make the bond with my kids truly, and we've all suffered because of it.
These heartfelt stories really helped me, and will always have a place in my heart. I will be recommending this book to other people as much as possible.
This was a bit of a hard one to get through. It was so amazing though! I was triggered by it briefly, helping me to push through some of my unacknowledged trauma. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for writing this, and the babies story.
Sam takes you through some tough stuff in this one, encapsulating why women "choose the bear." This book makes you think, and gives you all of the feels. Everyone can relate in some fashion. I'd have to say my favorite part was "Truth or Dare" with the guys. I love how they've built up this safe space for women and children, and how they all work together to help her. This book shows how so many of us don't thunk what we've gone through is a form of abuse, because were under the illusion (delusion) that what we experienced wasn't as bad as what someone else went through. It is, it just doesn't show externally. I'm glad she got the help she needed and faced her trauma. I loved seeing Jesse make a come back as well as so many previous characters.
I love all of the Ursa shifters series. I would love to read a book for Ursula and another for Jesse and Roxy. I can already see the struggles a bit, when it comes to who was involved at the end of this book. (No spoilers, never fear!)
Thank you as well for the babies' story with Nat and her slueth. What she went through is something so many mothers face, and just another aspect of mental health that doesn't get addressed enough, in my opinion. I struggled with the other side of things, where I wasn't able to make the bond with my kids truly, and we've all suffered because of it.
These heartfelt stories really helped me, and will always have a place in my heart. I will be recommending this book to other people as much as possible.
November 1, 2024
Rating- 3.5
Heat- 3
Tropes- fated mates, shapeshifters, abuse from ex, MFMM, insta love
Need to know- characters from the book prior to this one feature prominently, even having their own POV chapters
Sam Hall always does a great job with fated mates. Her bear shifters know they have a mate somewhere out there and remain devoted even before they find them. In Choose the Bears, our FMC, Imogen, is an avid paranormal romance reader and she responds to the situation exactly like I feel many of us would. While she never rushes to fit the pieces of the puzzle into a paranormal mold, she does accept the reality of bear shifters and fated mates extremely quickly. It’s almost as if she was drawn to shifter romance because she was always meant to be a shifter’s mate.
Even though this is a fairly light book, it delves into the mind of an abuse victim. Imogen is both strong and fragile. She has the strength to get herself out of a horrible situation but she struggles to accept her reality as a victim. In her mind, abuse is physical. We watch her regain her confidence and sense of self while simultaneously realize she was abused.
There did seem to be some little points that made no sense. The ex boyfriend that she was so afraid of never becomes an issue. The villain ends up being his friend and it never really made sense. Phil wanted his own wife and children back, so while I could understand him bullying Imogen when she was in front of him, I didn’t understand why he became fixated on her. Her own boyfriend let her go fairly easily. Why was his friend so determined to punish her? Plus Phil somehow magically outmaneuvers the entire shifter community with no explanation as to how.
Heat- 3
Tropes- fated mates, shapeshifters, abuse from ex, MFMM, insta love
Need to know- characters from the book prior to this one feature prominently, even having their own POV chapters
Sam Hall always does a great job with fated mates. Her bear shifters know they have a mate somewhere out there and remain devoted even before they find them. In Choose the Bears, our FMC, Imogen, is an avid paranormal romance reader and she responds to the situation exactly like I feel many of us would. While she never rushes to fit the pieces of the puzzle into a paranormal mold, she does accept the reality of bear shifters and fated mates extremely quickly. It’s almost as if she was drawn to shifter romance because she was always meant to be a shifter’s mate.
Even though this is a fairly light book, it delves into the mind of an abuse victim. Imogen is both strong and fragile. She has the strength to get herself out of a horrible situation but she struggles to accept her reality as a victim. In her mind, abuse is physical. We watch her regain her confidence and sense of self while simultaneously realize she was abused.
There did seem to be some little points that made no sense. The ex boyfriend that she was so afraid of never becomes an issue. The villain ends up being his friend and it never really made sense. Phil wanted his own wife and children back, so while I could understand him bullying Imogen when she was in front of him, I didn’t understand why he became fixated on her. Her own boyfriend let her go fairly easily. Why was his friend so determined to punish her? Plus Phil somehow magically outmaneuvers the entire shifter community with no explanation as to how.
October 23, 2024
Another excellent addition to the Ursa Bear books!! I really hope she continues the series.
The book starts with the FMC, Imogen, finally getting away from her terrible ex and his terrible friends. It was so refreshing to see a person making the steps to get out of a bad/abusive relationship. So often book characters are "saved" and I loved that she was saving herself first. After agreeing to take her boyfriend and his really creepy friend Phil camping for the weekend (this is still weird to me), Phil shows his creepy tendencies and she runs into 3 bears. Those bears are her mates.
Imogen is a breath of fresh air from saving herself by making hard choices and confidence in herself she gets herself out of a relationship. Further, she is not a whiny FMC, but strong. She's distrustful of the men which makes sense but if that had gone on much longer it would have been too much.
The guys are also working through their own issues and dealing with trauma. They have some difficulty bonding even though they want to bond there are trust issues. The guys love for Imogen was SO SWEET!!! UGH! I loved it so much.
As always, Sam Hall's writing is excellent and makes the story keep me interested and wanting to read until the book is over regardless of what time it is and how early I need to get up for work. The character development is really good and even more impressive since it is standalone.
While this book is a standalone, there are a lot of mentions of characters from the books in the series before this one. It was fun to catch up with them. I can't wait for more books!
Note:
HEA
DV abuse and stalking on and off page
Trust issues which are resolved
The book starts with the FMC, Imogen, finally getting away from her terrible ex and his terrible friends. It was so refreshing to see a person making the steps to get out of a bad/abusive relationship. So often book characters are "saved" and I loved that she was saving herself first. After agreeing to take her boyfriend and his really creepy friend Phil camping for the weekend (this is still weird to me), Phil shows his creepy tendencies and she runs into 3 bears. Those bears are her mates.
Imogen is a breath of fresh air from saving herself by making hard choices and confidence in herself she gets herself out of a relationship. Further, she is not a whiny FMC, but strong. She's distrustful of the men which makes sense but if that had gone on much longer it would have been too much.
The guys are also working through their own issues and dealing with trauma. They have some difficulty bonding even though they want to bond there are trust issues. The guys love for Imogen was SO SWEET!!! UGH! I loved it so much.
As always, Sam Hall's writing is excellent and makes the story keep me interested and wanting to read until the book is over regardless of what time it is and how early I need to get up for work. The character development is really good and even more impressive since it is standalone.
While this book is a standalone, there are a lot of mentions of characters from the books in the series before this one. It was fun to catch up with them. I can't wait for more books!
Note:
HEA
DV abuse and stalking on and off page
Trust issues which are resolved
October 24, 2024
You’re missing out if you haven’t read any of this series
I really just have to say I loooove Sam Hall, her books are always amazing and I will always RUN to read anything new she puts out. This book is #6 in the Ursa Shifters series. I’ve read books 3 and 5 in the series both of which I absolutely loved (I’m putting the others higher up on my tbr because I know I’m missing out having not read them yet!) If you’ve never tried a Shifter romance before you’re missing out, seriously.
Now for my review of this book! This one was really good, different from the others in the series in a way I really enjoyed and I loved all the cameos of characters from the other books! There’s action, a little found family vibes, fated mates, and the spice was spicing!!
The FMC, Imogen, is just escaping from an emotionally and mentally abusive relationship when three hunky men step in and help her out of a tricky situation. At first Imogen is so closed off because she’s been through so much, but throughout the book we see her learn to overcome what she’s been through. Now let me tell you about the MMCs 😍 Asher, Lucas, and Kyle. They are literally everything I girl could ask for. Protective, caring, selfless, oh and they turn into big ass bears! Sam Hall literally writes the best MMCs, I mean these guys literally LIVE to make Imogen happy and they’ll do anything to protect her.
There are a few triggers in this one including: mental, physical, and emotional abus€, kidn@pping, talk of SA, and more so check those before you start reading! I will say most of those were brief if they were on page.
I really just have to say I loooove Sam Hall, her books are always amazing and I will always RUN to read anything new she puts out. This book is #6 in the Ursa Shifters series. I’ve read books 3 and 5 in the series both of which I absolutely loved (I’m putting the others higher up on my tbr because I know I’m missing out having not read them yet!) If you’ve never tried a Shifter romance before you’re missing out, seriously.
Now for my review of this book! This one was really good, different from the others in the series in a way I really enjoyed and I loved all the cameos of characters from the other books! There’s action, a little found family vibes, fated mates, and the spice was spicing!!
The FMC, Imogen, is just escaping from an emotionally and mentally abusive relationship when three hunky men step in and help her out of a tricky situation. At first Imogen is so closed off because she’s been through so much, but throughout the book we see her learn to overcome what she’s been through. Now let me tell you about the MMCs 😍 Asher, Lucas, and Kyle. They are literally everything I girl could ask for. Protective, caring, selfless, oh and they turn into big ass bears! Sam Hall literally writes the best MMCs, I mean these guys literally LIVE to make Imogen happy and they’ll do anything to protect her.
There are a few triggers in this one including: mental, physical, and emotional abus€, kidn@pping, talk of SA, and more so check those before you start reading! I will say most of those were brief if they were on page.
October 13, 2024
Please be mindful of the trigger warnings for this book, it contains DV situations and other important triggers people should be aware of.
I loved this book, it’s written with such detail and emotion.
Imogen the FMC is a curvy smut book loving introvert that was stuck with a mooching loser of a boyfriend.
Then theirs the guys, the way the author describes them in fine detail is drool worthy. I adore their sleuth dynamic, the way they each complement the other’s personality and their genuine need to help women be safe.
The relationship journey is beautifully written, it had me completely mesmerised. You could feel the guys love and need for Imogen as you are reading.
It was wonderful to see other characters for previous books highlight in this book. I especially enjoyed Jesse’s cameo, the way his life has progressed - it was really great to see what he has been through since we saw him last. Loved how the breadcrumbs are left for Jesse to have his own book.
The ending was perfect, everything all tied up with all questions answered.
My fav quote from this book -
“People ask if a woman would choose to be with a bear or a man if she was alone in the woods,” Imogen said, staring at me, then Lucas, then Kyle. “I choose the bear, the bears, every time.” “Just keep choosing us,” I said, “and I promise you’ll never regret it.”
I loved this book, it’s written with such detail and emotion.
Imogen the FMC is a curvy smut book loving introvert that was stuck with a mooching loser of a boyfriend.
Then theirs the guys, the way the author describes them in fine detail is drool worthy. I adore their sleuth dynamic, the way they each complement the other’s personality and their genuine need to help women be safe.
The relationship journey is beautifully written, it had me completely mesmerised. You could feel the guys love and need for Imogen as you are reading.
It was wonderful to see other characters for previous books highlight in this book. I especially enjoyed Jesse’s cameo, the way his life has progressed - it was really great to see what he has been through since we saw him last. Loved how the breadcrumbs are left for Jesse to have his own book.
The ending was perfect, everything all tied up with all questions answered.
My fav quote from this book -
“People ask if a woman would choose to be with a bear or a man if she was alone in the woods,” Imogen said, staring at me, then Lucas, then Kyle. “I choose the bear, the bears, every time.” “Just keep choosing us,” I said, “and I promise you’ll never regret it.”
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October 23, 2024Magnificent
I don't even know where to start or end. I adored this book. I have felt and been where Imogen was... the abuse, the inability to accept that abuse was happening, the eventual acceptance that what happened was and never will be okay. Then... Nat's novella finished ripping my soul out. With my 1st born, I suffered significantly with Postpartum Psychosis. I had really severe thoughts regarding life and death. I had a partner at the time, but he was less than anything that was beneficial or helpful. I love to read about males who are there 100% w/o having to be coached or prodded or nagged, those that don't weaponize their incompetence.
I also really loved that Jesse has/had a redemption arc. I really wanted that when I read Maddie's story on Ream. I'm so excited to read about where he's been and where he's going! I may have gotten teary-eyed when his bear came through. I cannot wait to read Roxy's and his story.
On that note... Ursula!!! What, Queen?! Holy batman, what a twist!! If she doesn't have a book, I'll scream into the void for a long time... it will be completely pointless for us all, but what a way to go?
As always, I've been dying for Holly's story to be completed.
This was my favorite book of Sam's so far, and her books rank very highly in my top 20.
Brava!! That's all.
Fin.
I don't even know where to start or end. I adored this book. I have felt and been where Imogen was... the abuse, the inability to accept that abuse was happening, the eventual acceptance that what happened was and never will be okay. Then... Nat's novella finished ripping my soul out. With my 1st born, I suffered significantly with Postpartum Psychosis. I had really severe thoughts regarding life and death. I had a partner at the time, but he was less than anything that was beneficial or helpful. I love to read about males who are there 100% w/o having to be coached or prodded or nagged, those that don't weaponize their incompetence.
I also really loved that Jesse has/had a redemption arc. I really wanted that when I read Maddie's story on Ream. I'm so excited to read about where he's been and where he's going! I may have gotten teary-eyed when his bear came through. I cannot wait to read Roxy's and his story.
On that note... Ursula!!! What, Queen?! Holy batman, what a twist!! If she doesn't have a book, I'll scream into the void for a long time... it will be completely pointless for us all, but what a way to go?
As always, I've been dying for Holly's story to be completed.
This was my favorite book of Sam's so far, and her books rank very highly in my top 20.
Brava!! That's all.
Fin.
October 24, 2024
I really enjoyed this Ursa Shifters book! Although it has some darker themes, (Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, SA, stalking, threats) it’s also really cutesy and sweet.
When we meet Imogen, she’s trying to escape a mentally abusive partner. The situation gets worse when her partners coworker decides to take an interest in her.
Asher, Kyle, and Lucas come to the rescue and step up to make her happy.
Imogen really goes from fearful and put down to wanting to make herself happy and taking those steps. Grabbing life by the horns, or rather the bear by the ears, she embraces
everything her guys throw at her.
I loved the variety of personalities within the Sleuth. There’s some spice, I wouldn’t say it’s a big part of the book but it’s there.
I loved Jesse’s part, I see him redeeming himself. I would be interested in seeing his and Roxy’s relationship more, even in the background.
So many familiar faces! All the books came together, even some that aren’t Ursa Shifters. (Are the shifters going to meet the Gargoyles? That would be interesting.)
The ending goes off with a BANG! I honestly didn’t expect it but now I’m curious about how the world development in the future.
All in all, I had a lot of fun reading Choose the Bears.
When we meet Imogen, she’s trying to escape a mentally abusive partner. The situation gets worse when her partners coworker decides to take an interest in her.
Asher, Kyle, and Lucas come to the rescue and step up to make her happy.
Imogen really goes from fearful and put down to wanting to make herself happy and taking those steps. Grabbing life by the horns, or rather the bear by the ears, she embraces
everything her guys throw at her.
I loved the variety of personalities within the Sleuth. There’s some spice, I wouldn’t say it’s a big part of the book but it’s there.
I loved Jesse’s part, I see him redeeming himself. I would be interested in seeing his and Roxy’s relationship more, even in the background.
So many familiar faces! All the books came together, even some that aren’t Ursa Shifters. (Are the shifters going to meet the Gargoyles? That would be interesting.)
The ending goes off with a BANG! I honestly didn’t expect it but now I’m curious about how the world development in the future.
All in all, I had a lot of fun reading Choose the Bears.
October 29, 2024
Another great addition to the Ursa-verse!!!
I went into Choose The Bears, having loved all the previous books, knowing it would have a plot that is thought-provoking, and the world building and character development, both simply phenomenal. And I wasn't disappointed!!! I would honestly be very surprised if there was anyone who doesn't see even the smallest aspects of themselves in any of the Ursa leading ladies or fabulous side characters.
While it was nice to see characters from previous books make appearances, I think I would have liked to see Jesse's story written separately or at least not added into this particular book. In my opinion, and please don't get me wrong, it was well written and I love that it looks like he might get a redemption arc, I just felt that it didn't quite fit in here, given that Jesse and Imogen and her bears didn't know each other previously. But hopefully, with his story pretty much having just started, he might get his own book in the not so distant future.
I didn't see the twist towards the end with Ursula coming, but that is for sure going to be a game changer!!! I really hope we get to see her story in the not so distant future as well.
I went into Choose The Bears, having loved all the previous books, knowing it would have a plot that is thought-provoking, and the world building and character development, both simply phenomenal. And I wasn't disappointed!!! I would honestly be very surprised if there was anyone who doesn't see even the smallest aspects of themselves in any of the Ursa leading ladies or fabulous side characters.
While it was nice to see characters from previous books make appearances, I think I would have liked to see Jesse's story written separately or at least not added into this particular book. In my opinion, and please don't get me wrong, it was well written and I love that it looks like he might get a redemption arc, I just felt that it didn't quite fit in here, given that Jesse and Imogen and her bears didn't know each other previously. But hopefully, with his story pretty much having just started, he might get his own book in the not so distant future.
I didn't see the twist towards the end with Ursula coming, but that is for sure going to be a game changer!!! I really hope we get to see her story in the not so distant future as well.
October 18, 2024
Imogen finally seems to be making headway in getting away from her awful (soon to be ex) boyfriend. In order to get her boyfriend out of the apartment for the weekend, she agrees to drive him and his creepy friend, Phil, up to the campgrounds. When Phil makes things even more creepy, Imogen is saved by three men. These 3 strangers stick around and help Imogen move to her new apartment as well as help upgrade the security in her new apartment. They seem to good to be true and Imogen is just waiting for the other shoe to drop.
Imogen is such a gem! She has been through so much in her life and was able to make the hard choices to get out of a bad situation. The writing and pacing kept the story interesting and engaging. Although this is a standalone, there are mentions of characters from the previous books in the series, so it was nice to get a little peak into their current lives. The guys also have their own issues that they are working through and sometimes trauma bonds are the strongest bonds. The guys were absolutely sweet in making Imogen comfortable and safe. I hope Sam Hall continues with books set in this world!
Imogen is such a gem! She has been through so much in her life and was able to make the hard choices to get out of a bad situation. The writing and pacing kept the story interesting and engaging. Although this is a standalone, there are mentions of characters from the previous books in the series, so it was nice to get a little peak into their current lives. The guys also have their own issues that they are working through and sometimes trauma bonds are the strongest bonds. The guys were absolutely sweet in making Imogen comfortable and safe. I hope Sam Hall continues with books set in this world!
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