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The Phoenix Pack #4
Dark Instincts
It happens whenever wolf shifter Roni Axton is near Marcus Fuller: a crackle of sexual awareness that’s intoxicating…and deeply annoying. Marcus is a pack enforcer who oozes power, but Roni is lethal in her own right—nothing like the flirty females who flock around him. Even still, his possessive gaze makes one thing clear. Marcus has singled her out for seduction, and he wants to make her sit up and beg.
No matter how aloof and unfazed Roni acts, Marcus can tell she wants him. When a brutal attack by a jackal pack forces them to work together, it’s the perfect opportunity for Marcus to chip away at her defenses—until he falls into his own trap, completely unprepared for the intensity of their connection. Roni is the only one who’s ever seen past his shifter charm and discovered the man hiding beneath it. And for Marcus, claiming Roni once will mean needing her forever.
No matter how aloof and unfazed Roni acts, Marcus can tell she wants him. When a brutal attack by a jackal pack forces them to work together, it’s the perfect opportunity for Marcus to chip away at her defenses—until he falls into his own trap, completely unprepared for the intensity of their connection. Roni is the only one who’s ever seen past his shifter charm and discovered the man hiding beneath it. And for Marcus, claiming Roni once will mean needing her forever.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 7, 2015
2060 people are currently reading
6560 people want to read
About the author
Suzanne Wright
68 books14.5k followersSuzanne Wright lives in England with her husband, two children, and her Bengal cats. When she's not spending time with her family, she's writing, reading, or doing her version of housework - sweeping the house with a look.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,100 reviews
October 9, 2018
10/8/18: Re-read #10...ish
Re-read 3/19/16...Still in werewolf mode in these parts...love this one more every time I read it...
4 - 4.5 Solid Stars
Well done, Suzanne Wright. Well done.
Believe it or not, I went into this book with absolutely no expectations...but definitely with some caution.
I LOVED Feral Sins and Wicked Cravings.
Carnal Secrets??
Not as much.
Looking back though, I think a lot of my disappointment with that book can be attributed to too high expectations.
We all know how that goes. You look so forward to a book as a result of series build-up that it just never seems to deliver.
With that in mind, I went into this one knowing I might love it...
...Or that it might be an epic failure.
So color me happy that we landed somewhere on the higher side of the middle.
This book brought fun from both the Phoenix and Mercury packs and we got to hang out with all our favorite shifter peeps.
Group hug guys.
Nicely executed.
We got some good old Greta-isms, some witty group banter and, but of course, some more awesomely cheey one-liners from my boy Dominic.
Going into this one, I was very curious to see how Roni would end up characterized in her own full length book.
In my review for Wicked Cravings I make mention of how similar Jamie was to Taryn, our Alpha h from book one. They were not carbon copies, just...eerily similar.
In fact, if you have read Wright's Deep in Your Veins Series, you might find that Sam is also a lot like Taryn and Jamie...and perhaps Shaya too...
Needless to say, I was starting to wonder if perhaps Wright could only write one "kind" of lead female. Thankfully, Roni is definitely her own person, her own character, and quirky in her own singular ways - which I really enjoyed.
I was also curious to see how Marcus would be portrayed.
In the first book, during the ending menage scene with Taryn and Trey - and all his enforcers (a scene I could have probably done without if I'm honest - and which was apparently edited out of later editions for those of you who have no idea what I'm talking about), Trick and Marcus go all m/m on each other...which is TOTALLY fine by me...
...but after that it was never mentioned or referred to again...
...which made me wonder if Wright had regretted including it and was just gonna pretend it never happened.
Thankfully, it was mentioned - if a bit glossed over - and we learn a lot more about both Roni and Marcus. We find out a lot more about why Roni retreats into her wolf form, and we also find out a lot more about Marcus and his own childhood.
In short, while not my favorite book in the series, Dark Instincts was a very enjoyable read and I think readers of the series will enjoy its addition.
But what I really want?
Ryan's story.
****An advance reading copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.****
Re-read 3/19/16...Still in werewolf mode in these parts...love this one more every time I read it...
4 - 4.5 Solid Stars
Well done, Suzanne Wright. Well done.
Believe it or not, I went into this book with absolutely no expectations...but definitely with some caution.
I LOVED Feral Sins and Wicked Cravings.
Carnal Secrets??
Not as much.
Looking back though, I think a lot of my disappointment with that book can be attributed to too high expectations.
We all know how that goes. You look so forward to a book as a result of series build-up that it just never seems to deliver.
With that in mind, I went into this one knowing I might love it...
...Or that it might be an epic failure.
So color me happy that we landed somewhere on the higher side of the middle.
This book brought fun from both the Phoenix and Mercury packs and we got to hang out with all our favorite shifter peeps.
Group hug guys.
Nicely executed.
We got some good old Greta-isms, some witty group banter and, but of course, some more awesomely cheey one-liners from my boy Dominic.
Going into this one, I was very curious to see how Roni would end up characterized in her own full length book.
In my review for Wicked Cravings I make mention of how similar Jamie was to Taryn, our Alpha h from book one. They were not carbon copies, just...eerily similar.
In fact, if you have read Wright's Deep in Your Veins Series, you might find that Sam is also a lot like Taryn and Jamie...and perhaps Shaya too...
Needless to say, I was starting to wonder if perhaps Wright could only write one "kind" of lead female. Thankfully, Roni is definitely her own person, her own character, and quirky in her own singular ways - which I really enjoyed.
I was also curious to see how Marcus would be portrayed.
In the first book, during the ending menage scene with Taryn and Trey - and all his enforcers (a scene I could have probably done without if I'm honest - and which was apparently edited out of later editions for those of you who have no idea what I'm talking about), Trick and Marcus go all m/m on each other...which is TOTALLY fine by me...
...but after that it was never mentioned or referred to again...
...which made me wonder if Wright had regretted including it and was just gonna pretend it never happened.
Thankfully, it was mentioned - if a bit glossed over - and we learn a lot more about both Roni and Marcus. We find out a lot more about why Roni retreats into her wolf form, and we also find out a lot more about Marcus and his own childhood.
In short, while not my favorite book in the series, Dark Instincts was a very enjoyable read and I think readers of the series will enjoy its addition.
But what I really want?
Ryan's story.
****An advance reading copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.****
July 12, 2023
4.5 Antisocial Stars
* May have Spoilers below*
First read June 2015
Reread April 2020
Reread July 2023
“Flirting is supposed to be fun and playful, sweetheart. It doesn’t mean I’m not serious.” He leaned closer, lowering his voice so only she could hear, making the whole thing painfully intimate. “I want you. I want to make you come so hard that the memory’s burned into your brain and you’ll never forget the feeling of me deep inside you.”
OMG!!!! Ok so I loved the 1st book and the 2nd, the 3rd was just meh. So I was just a little worried that the 4th one would fall flat too. Well I was wrong. I loved Dark Instincts . It was so good that now I can't wait for the next one to come out!
“So when I told you to stop interfering in my life, what part of that statement did you find confusing? Should I use smaller words? Simpler vocabulary? Or maybe you need me to emphasize it with a blow to the jaw? That would be fun.” (Roni to Nick)
Roni:
Roni is flippin awesome. I love how socially awkward she is. She is an enforcer so she kick some serious ass. She is a huge tom boy. I got a kick out of her smart witty remarks, but I loved her random weird facts so much.
Roni's Random Facts:
“Did you know that if you get caught masturbating in Indonesia, you can be decapitated as punishment?” “Roni.” “What? What did I say?”
***********************************************************
"Did you know that thousands of different bacteria can be found in a person's belly button?"
***********************************************************
“Did you know that an ingredient of many lipsticks is crushed parasitic beetles?”
***********************************************************
“Did you know that if your stomach doesn’t produce a new layer of mucus every two weeks, it’ll digest itself?”
***********************************************************
“Except dolphins,” interjected Roni. “They’re a race of violent predators who kill their own babies for fun and who have a predilection to gang rape.”
***********************************************************
“For instance, I know that in Baldwin Park, no one’s allowed to ride a bicycle in a swimming pool. And I know that it’s illegal to hunt whales in Oklahoma. Oh, and in Singapore, it’s illegal to buy or sell gum you can only have it prescribed by a doctor.” Everyone just stared at her. “What?”
Marcus:
“I didn’t say you’re submissive. I said I do the fucking, and you do the taking. It’s like I told you last time when I’m inside this pussy, it’s mine. And right now, I want to fuck it.”
Marcus is fun loving, charming , and very loyal. He shows everyone the laid back, playboy side but there is way more to Marcus then what meets the eye. He is very supportive of Roni, and gives her the time she needs, slowing breaking down all the walls around her heart. I love his little quirk about not sharing his food ever.
“You come across as a smooth, easygoing flirt who’s all soft and cuddly. But in reality, you’re a dangerous fucker who’s simply very prettily dressed in charm.” “Flattery won’t get you anywhere, Roni. Except, of course, if it’s accompanied by a kiss.” “You hide behind the charm, flirt constantly, flash that bad-boy smile at everyone, and live by the ‘no strings attached rule. But in doing that, you’ve reduced yourself to a sex toy.”
“That doesn’t matter to me. She doesn’t matter to me. You matter to me. And absolutely nobody gets to harm you. Not because I don’t think you can take care of yourself, but because the very idea of anyone targeting you offends me and pisses me the hell off. If anyone touches you, they die.”
“One thing we can learn from this is to never underestimate our females.” “You know, looking at them right now,” began Marcus, “it’s safe to say they’re all a little crazy and vicious.” Nick, Trey, and Dante all nodded in agreement, looking proud. “Yeah,” said Trey. “We lucked out.”
Marcus and Roni together are so damn cute, but when it comes to sex they go rough and hard! They have major chemistry, like rippin clothes off, up against the tree, can't get it fast enough chemistry!!!!
Then she pointed at her pussy. “Well, it’s not going to lick itself.”
“You can be just as possessive, Roni. Gets me hard every time.” She snorted. “A burger gets you hard.” “But it doesn’t taste as good as you do.”
I adored that both Trey and Nicks packs are all over this book because I enjoy seeing how everyone is doing. Roni with her two brothers had me rolling. Her and Eli with their crazy brother/sister prank war OMG.
“Does your cruelty know no boundaries?” “What did she do?” chuckled Marcus. “Take a look. Take a long look at who you’ve mated.” Eli tossed his cell to Marcus. “Total. Fucking. Bitch.” As his mate continued to brush off her brother’s insults, Marcus found himself looking at Eli’s Facebook profile while Nick, Shaya, and Stone peeked at it over his shoulder. Eli or Roni pretending to be Eli had posted on his wall at four-thirty in the morning “I’ve got an announcement to make. I’ve found my true mate. Yep, turns out my mate was under my nose the whole time.” Under the post was a photo of a naked Eli curled up in bed . . . with a grinning Kent spooning him.
This book has it all family drama, hot romance, on the edge of your seat suspense, A yummy, sexy werewolf with cheesy come on lines, and tons of action! Oh and lets not forget adorable lil Kye!!!! I can't not wait for SPIRAL OF NEED (Derren's book)
Below I leave my favorite moment from this book:
Trey gave him a mockingly sympathetic look. “You might be an Alpha, but your family will always find a way to play you.” Nick just scowled at him. “I’m glad you find this amusing, Sailor Joe.” It seemed to take a few seconds for the words to sink in, but when they did, Trey spun to snarl at Taryn, “You told him?” She laughed awkwardly. “Of course I didn’t tell him.” In a low voice, she added, “I told Shaya.” While everyone else was doing their best to hide their amusement, Dante was outright laughing his ass off. “A sailor, huh? Didn’t think that role-play was your thing.” Trey glowered at him. “Something funny, Fireman Sam?” The laughing abruptly stopped, and Dante rounded on his mate. “You told him?” Jaime spluttered. “No!” She cleared her throat. “Although I did tell Taryn. And Shaya. And Roni. But I didn’t tell them about the time you—” A large hand clapped over her mouth. “About the time you . . . ?” prodded Nick, grinning. Wincing as Jaime bit into his palm, Dante shook his head. “Nothing.” Shaya snorted at Nick. “You’re not really one to judge, considering you—” Her words were cut off as he kissed her hard.
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
* May have Spoilers below*
First read June 2015
Reread April 2020
Reread July 2023
“Flirting is supposed to be fun and playful, sweetheart. It doesn’t mean I’m not serious.” He leaned closer, lowering his voice so only she could hear, making the whole thing painfully intimate. “I want you. I want to make you come so hard that the memory’s burned into your brain and you’ll never forget the feeling of me deep inside you.”
OMG!!!! Ok so I loved the 1st book and the 2nd, the 3rd was just meh. So I was just a little worried that the 4th one would fall flat too. Well I was wrong. I loved Dark Instincts . It was so good that now I can't wait for the next one to come out!
“So when I told you to stop interfering in my life, what part of that statement did you find confusing? Should I use smaller words? Simpler vocabulary? Or maybe you need me to emphasize it with a blow to the jaw? That would be fun.” (Roni to Nick)
Roni:
Roni is flippin awesome. I love how socially awkward she is. She is an enforcer so she kick some serious ass. She is a huge tom boy. I got a kick out of her smart witty remarks, but I loved her random weird facts so much.
Roni's Random Facts:
“Did you know that if you get caught masturbating in Indonesia, you can be decapitated as punishment?” “Roni.” “What? What did I say?”
***********************************************************
"Did you know that thousands of different bacteria can be found in a person's belly button?"
***********************************************************
“Did you know that an ingredient of many lipsticks is crushed parasitic beetles?”
***********************************************************
“Did you know that if your stomach doesn’t produce a new layer of mucus every two weeks, it’ll digest itself?”
***********************************************************
“Except dolphins,” interjected Roni. “They’re a race of violent predators who kill their own babies for fun and who have a predilection to gang rape.”
***********************************************************
“For instance, I know that in Baldwin Park, no one’s allowed to ride a bicycle in a swimming pool. And I know that it’s illegal to hunt whales in Oklahoma. Oh, and in Singapore, it’s illegal to buy or sell gum you can only have it prescribed by a doctor.” Everyone just stared at her. “What?”
Marcus:
“I didn’t say you’re submissive. I said I do the fucking, and you do the taking. It’s like I told you last time when I’m inside this pussy, it’s mine. And right now, I want to fuck it.”
Marcus is fun loving, charming , and very loyal. He shows everyone the laid back, playboy side but there is way more to Marcus then what meets the eye. He is very supportive of Roni, and gives her the time she needs, slowing breaking down all the walls around her heart. I love his little quirk about not sharing his food ever.
“You come across as a smooth, easygoing flirt who’s all soft and cuddly. But in reality, you’re a dangerous fucker who’s simply very prettily dressed in charm.” “Flattery won’t get you anywhere, Roni. Except, of course, if it’s accompanied by a kiss.” “You hide behind the charm, flirt constantly, flash that bad-boy smile at everyone, and live by the ‘no strings attached rule. But in doing that, you’ve reduced yourself to a sex toy.”
“That doesn’t matter to me. She doesn’t matter to me. You matter to me. And absolutely nobody gets to harm you. Not because I don’t think you can take care of yourself, but because the very idea of anyone targeting you offends me and pisses me the hell off. If anyone touches you, they die.”
“One thing we can learn from this is to never underestimate our females.” “You know, looking at them right now,” began Marcus, “it’s safe to say they’re all a little crazy and vicious.” Nick, Trey, and Dante all nodded in agreement, looking proud. “Yeah,” said Trey. “We lucked out.”
Marcus and Roni together are so damn cute, but when it comes to sex they go rough and hard! They have major chemistry, like rippin clothes off, up against the tree, can't get it fast enough chemistry!!!!
Then she pointed at her pussy. “Well, it’s not going to lick itself.”
“You can be just as possessive, Roni. Gets me hard every time.” She snorted. “A burger gets you hard.” “But it doesn’t taste as good as you do.”
I adored that both Trey and Nicks packs are all over this book because I enjoy seeing how everyone is doing. Roni with her two brothers had me rolling. Her and Eli with their crazy brother/sister prank war OMG.
“Does your cruelty know no boundaries?” “What did she do?” chuckled Marcus. “Take a look. Take a long look at who you’ve mated.” Eli tossed his cell to Marcus. “Total. Fucking. Bitch.” As his mate continued to brush off her brother’s insults, Marcus found himself looking at Eli’s Facebook profile while Nick, Shaya, and Stone peeked at it over his shoulder. Eli or Roni pretending to be Eli had posted on his wall at four-thirty in the morning “I’ve got an announcement to make. I’ve found my true mate. Yep, turns out my mate was under my nose the whole time.” Under the post was a photo of a naked Eli curled up in bed . . . with a grinning Kent spooning him.
This book has it all family drama, hot romance, on the edge of your seat suspense, A yummy, sexy werewolf with cheesy come on lines, and tons of action! Oh and lets not forget adorable lil Kye!!!! I can't not wait for SPIRAL OF NEED (Derren's book)
Below I leave my favorite moment from this book:
Trey gave him a mockingly sympathetic look. “You might be an Alpha, but your family will always find a way to play you.” Nick just scowled at him. “I’m glad you find this amusing, Sailor Joe.” It seemed to take a few seconds for the words to sink in, but when they did, Trey spun to snarl at Taryn, “You told him?” She laughed awkwardly. “Of course I didn’t tell him.” In a low voice, she added, “I told Shaya.” While everyone else was doing their best to hide their amusement, Dante was outright laughing his ass off. “A sailor, huh? Didn’t think that role-play was your thing.” Trey glowered at him. “Something funny, Fireman Sam?” The laughing abruptly stopped, and Dante rounded on his mate. “You told him?” Jaime spluttered. “No!” She cleared her throat. “Although I did tell Taryn. And Shaya. And Roni. But I didn’t tell them about the time you—” A large hand clapped over her mouth. “About the time you . . . ?” prodded Nick, grinning. Wincing as Jaime bit into his palm, Dante shook his head. “Nothing.” Shaya snorted at Nick. “You’re not really one to judge, considering you—” Her words were cut off as he kissed her hard.
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
June 8, 2017
Dark Instincts, the 4th book in Suzanne Wright’s The Phoenix Pack starts off with a bang!!! Some pack mates are attacked by a group of shifters, which we later learn are part of a Jackal Pack, whose plan to kidnap the Phoenix Pact Alpha Trey and Tanya Coleman’s young son, if foiled by the fighting instincts of Roni Axton. That was an unexpected and thrilling experience!!
This book is Roni Axton, sister and enforcer of Nick’s Mercury Pack – a loner, tough, kick-ass and a fighter, has been doing her best to avoid Marcus Fuller, enforcer of the Phoenix Pack, a smooth talking, charming and sexy lover of women, without much success. Since the first time she’s seen him….she can’t get him out of her head…
But Marcus feels the strong chemistry between them…even if Roni denies it. And he’s not the kind of man to give up on someone he wants…
I must admit that I wasn’t getting those “fuzzy” feelings for Roni at the beginning. She was so anti-social and giving off these “tough as nails” vibes….
I enjoyed the way their relationship developed and how they dealt with the family dynamics….
The dialogue is what we expect from this author. It’s a total funny and wicked and sparkly blast!!!
Another enjoyable scene was The Pack males are beyond wicked how they go about getting
I was really happy for Roni and Marcus…they did good things for and to each other….bringing out the best in each other…and it made for one of my favorite quotes in this story….
This is a series for all those lovers of steamy paranormal romance with endearing characters and fabulous storylines.
A definite reread.
This book is Roni Axton, sister and enforcer of Nick’s Mercury Pack – a loner, tough, kick-ass and a fighter, has been doing her best to avoid Marcus Fuller, enforcer of the Phoenix Pack, a smooth talking, charming and sexy lover of women, without much success. Since the first time she’s seen him….she can’t get him out of her head…
She knows that she’s not his type of women….she doesn’t do chit-chat and further, her family is always on her case about her being a tomboy and not the kind of woman a man is looking for.
But Marcus feels the strong chemistry between them…even if Roni denies it. And he’s not the kind of man to give up on someone he wants…
There’s also a darkness inside him that he hides behind his laid-back and easy-going façade. I found him very engaging although at first I was thinking…wait a minute….I was expecting something else in Marcus’s life…like he would end up with the shifter, Trick!!! Yes, I did have that thought…after what the two did with each other in the “infamous” ménage “a neuve” in Feral Sins!!!! https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1... and throughout most of the book, there are remarks made about Marcus and Trick being friends with “benefits” and pulling something else or other with each other!!!! But ultimately, the two are just good friends and its Roni who Marcus wants…hey, I did have a moment there that I thought…okay, maybe Marcus, Roni and Trick would have a ménage a trois!!!!! But, sorry, not happening in this story!!!! An apology if this is a spoiler!!!!
I must admit that I wasn’t getting those “fuzzy” feelings for Roni at the beginning. She was so anti-social and giving off these “tough as nails” vibes….
But as I came to know her and discovered what she had experienced in her life as a teenager, I began to understand her need to disconnect with those around her….who wouldn’t if one was always been criticized by her own family. She grew on me – afraid…nah….kick-ass…yeah…..check the scene where she’s telling the sneakiest Seer from her pack off….
“Allowing Marcus to lead her back to the Toyota, she glanced over her shoulder at Kerrie. “You—if you come near us again, I’ll make you choke on your own ovaries. And I’ll enjoy it. What’s more, I’ll make you enjoy it. Just sayin’.”I fell totally in love with her character.
I enjoyed the way their relationship developed and how they dealt with the family dynamics….
Two broken people. Both having to work through their darkness and pain before finding their HEA.
The main plot is quite dark with the introduction of the evil and corrupt Jackal Pack and how they abduct shifters and humans to torture and use for the making of “snuff” movies. The Phoenix and Mercury Packs join forces to bringing down these immoral and depraved shifters, no matter what.
The dialogue is what we expect from this author. It’s a total funny and wicked and sparkly blast!!!
“Shaya’s chasing Nick with her shotgun—and I’m not even kidding. I believe the last words she said to him before we left were, ‘Run, Alpha-boy.”The one scene where Eli, Roni’s brother confronts her after she’s posted something about him on the Packs website was a total “rolling and laughing my ass off on the floor” moment…
“He turned his glare on Roni. “I’m now known on a global scale as a gay, submissive, kinky, mated male recovering from an STD!” Roni tilted her head. “If you’re looking for remorse, you can find it in the dictionary somewhere between rectum and runt.”And the unforgettable scene where the Pack “ladies” take on the job of interrogation…..and torture of a prisoner female Jackal shifter , who they want to extract information on the Jackal Pack….talk about awesomeness!!!!!
Another enjoyable scene was The Pack males are beyond wicked how they go about getting
I was really happy for Roni and Marcus…they did good things for and to each other….bringing out the best in each other…and it made for one of my favorite quotes in this story….
I liked this series a lot and hopefully we will get more in the future.
This is a series for all those lovers of steamy paranormal romance with endearing characters and fabulous storylines.
A definite reread.
July 15, 2015
3.5- 4 Stars
As disappointed as I was with Carnal Secrets I was equal parts dreading and anticipating this book. I knew if I didn't like this one, it may be the end of the road for me with this series. That's not to say that I didn't dive into it immediately upon having it land on my kindle. Something about this series will just always be a guilty pleasure for me. It's the combination of great PNR, humor and super hot sex. It just does it for me. Though with the wait between each book I managed to completely forget who Marcus was. But then again, my puny brain has the memory span of a month at most, so this may have most likely been just me.
I'm so happy that this book was definitely MUCH better than Carnal Secrets. Though it wasn't as good as the first book for me (Feral Sins will forever be my favorite).
Roni is Nick's sister and enforcer in her pack. She's a total badass bitch.
She's also a tomboy that struggles to see her own appeal. So when the super sexy Marcus begins to hit on her mercilessly and pursue her with a single minded intent, she has a hard time believing that he's truly interested in her.
Marcus is a bit of a manwhore, but he has his reasons. His past pretty much ensures that he not want to find his mate. But Roni draws him to her like a magnet. There's just something about her and he knows that he won't be satisfied until he has her underneath him...or on top, side, standing up...he's not picky.
I gotta say that Marcus and Roni were definitely very well matched. They're both sharp with the wit and have equal standing in their packs since Marcus is also an enforcer. I loved watching him wear Roni down. When the man sets his mind to it, he definitely sets him mind to it.
I'm not sure if my inner pervert has gotten super picky lately or what, but I didn't find the sex quite as hot as it was in the previous books. I did like the story quite a bit, however. There was a little bit of everything; suspense, action, and lots of sexy times. Of course what would this series be without the rabid grandma and her insults? All the rest of our favorite characters are back too.
As much as I enjoyed the story, it just didn't managed to completely grip me as the first 2 books did. I had no issues setting it down and coming back to it. That's not to say it wasn't a great read, it just wasn't one of those can't-put-it-down ones for me. There's a lot that's going on here not only with Roni and Marcus, but Marcus's past and their packs. I did find that everything else that was happening at times took away from the romance of the story, though not immensely.
Fans of this series will definitely enjoy this one. And if you're like me and didn't fully enjoy the 3rd book, this one is much better. I'm really looking forward to the next installment in this series.
ARC courtesy of publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
When Marcus wanted something, he would hunt it down until it was his. And he wanted Roni Axton in his bed...
As disappointed as I was with Carnal Secrets I was equal parts dreading and anticipating this book. I knew if I didn't like this one, it may be the end of the road for me with this series. That's not to say that I didn't dive into it immediately upon having it land on my kindle. Something about this series will just always be a guilty pleasure for me. It's the combination of great PNR, humor and super hot sex. It just does it for me. Though with the wait between each book I managed to completely forget who Marcus was. But then again, my puny brain has the memory span of a month at most, so this may have most likely been just me.
I'm so happy that this book was definitely MUCH better than Carnal Secrets. Though it wasn't as good as the first book for me (Feral Sins will forever be my favorite).
Roni is Nick's sister and enforcer in her pack. She's a total badass bitch.
She's also a tomboy that struggles to see her own appeal. So when the super sexy Marcus begins to hit on her mercilessly and pursue her with a single minded intent, she has a hard time believing that he's truly interested in her.
Marcus is a bit of a manwhore, but he has his reasons. His past pretty much ensures that he not want to find his mate. But Roni draws him to her like a magnet. There's just something about her and he knows that he won't be satisfied until he has her underneath him...or on top, side, standing up...he's not picky.
I gotta say that Marcus and Roni were definitely very well matched. They're both sharp with the wit and have equal standing in their packs since Marcus is also an enforcer. I loved watching him wear Roni down. When the man sets his mind to it, he definitely sets him mind to it.
I'm not sure if my inner pervert has gotten super picky lately or what, but I didn't find the sex quite as hot as it was in the previous books. I did like the story quite a bit, however. There was a little bit of everything; suspense, action, and lots of sexy times. Of course what would this series be without the rabid grandma and her insults? All the rest of our favorite characters are back too.
As much as I enjoyed the story, it just didn't managed to completely grip me as the first 2 books did. I had no issues setting it down and coming back to it. That's not to say it wasn't a great read, it just wasn't one of those can't-put-it-down ones for me. There's a lot that's going on here not only with Roni and Marcus, but Marcus's past and their packs. I did find that everything else that was happening at times took away from the romance of the story, though not immensely.
Fans of this series will definitely enjoy this one. And if you're like me and didn't fully enjoy the 3rd book, this one is much better. I'm really looking forward to the next installment in this series.
ARC courtesy of publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
February 4, 2016
4 Stars
I enjoyed this story. Not as much as the first two books in the series but it was a huge improvement from the last one.
I enjoyed this story. Not as much as the first two books in the series but it was a huge improvement from the last one.
March 20, 2015
5 show no mercy stars
Roni is the younger sister of Nick, the Alpha leader of the Mercury Pack. Even with her position as pack Enforcer, her cold icy demeanor, her tomboy ways and her exceptionally high IQ, she finds she can never change the fact that Nick or her mom views and treats her as a helpless twelve year old girl. The only one who sees her for the woman she truly is inside is Marcus, the pack Enforcer of the Phoenix Pack.
Marcus has been the star of her every X-rated fantasy. He deserved an Oscar for his performances. The need she feels when he walks in the room is enough to scare her away, but it's not like he'd ever find out. Marcus has been bidding his time, observing Roni from afar, she was incredibly intelligent; in order to seduce her physically, he’d need to first seduce her mentally. And when the opportunity for them to join forces to hunt down the jackals, he uses everything he can to his advantage.
Roni is strong, powerful and deadly in her own rite, an alpha female who protects her own with little thought to her own safety. Marcus sees all this and more, understanding and believing in her; with each passing day he chips away at her protective wall until it is broken down. Leaving her bare but not alone.
Marcus wasn't prepared for Roni, he knew he wanted her, but he never anticipated just how deep their connection truly is. When faced with the reality of a life without the other, can they fully let go of the demons that hold them and make it through till forever ...
Dark Instincts is nothing short of amazing, it has everything that I only come to expect from Suzanne Wright. She has a way to perfectly blend my most favorite things seamlessly while still delivering a unique reading experience. In this I was more than pleased to find Roni, a strong-alpha-female who is lethal, smart and sassy but willing to submit in the bedroom (after some power play of course) to a worthy man. Marcus is playful, charming, sexy and dangerous, he wasn't intimidated with Roni's strength and smarts, he fully embraced all that she is and stood proudly by her side. They both are natural born protectors, both understand the meaning of showing no mercy.
This had action, humor, playful banter, sexual tension, claim staking and some darker themes; it really has it all. Feral Sins will always be my favorite in the bunch, it was the beginning, and I know well enough that there will never be another Trey and Taryn. With that mind set, everything after has lived up to the standard that the author has set and has never disappointed me. I have been invested in this series from day one, loving how we keep getting more and hope it never stops. Awesome read and highly recommended for those who love their paranormal erotic reads.
ARC kindly provided by Amazon Publishing, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
***Quotes above are taken from the ARC version of the book and may differ upon publication.
“I was scared of needing anyone, scared of having anyone need me.”
Roni is the younger sister of Nick, the Alpha leader of the Mercury Pack. Even with her position as pack Enforcer, her cold icy demeanor, her tomboy ways and her exceptionally high IQ, she finds she can never change the fact that Nick or her mom views and treats her as a helpless twelve year old girl. The only one who sees her for the woman she truly is inside is Marcus, the pack Enforcer of the Phoenix Pack.
Marcus has been the star of her every X-rated fantasy. He deserved an Oscar for his performances. The need she feels when he walks in the room is enough to scare her away, but it's not like he'd ever find out. Marcus has been bidding his time, observing Roni from afar, she was incredibly intelligent; in order to seduce her physically, he’d need to first seduce her mentally. And when the opportunity for them to join forces to hunt down the jackals, he uses everything he can to his advantage.
"As you may have noticed, despite being a dominant female, I’m not interested in being the dominant partner in bed. An active partner, yes, but not dominant. However, that doesn’t mean I’ll let you take the lead in any way, shape, or form outside of the bedroom.”
Roni is strong, powerful and deadly in her own rite, an alpha female who protects her own with little thought to her own safety. Marcus sees all this and more, understanding and believing in her; with each passing day he chips away at her protective wall until it is broken down. Leaving her bare but not alone.
“See, this body belongs to me. I wanted to touch it”—he smoothed a hand down her side—“lick it”—he delivered a long, sensual lick to her neck—“bite it”—he sank his teeth into her throat—“and fuck it.” He ground his reviving cock against her clit.
Marcus wasn't prepared for Roni, he knew he wanted her, but he never anticipated just how deep their connection truly is. When faced with the reality of a life without the other, can they fully let go of the demons that hold them and make it through till forever ...
Dark Instincts is nothing short of amazing, it has everything that I only come to expect from Suzanne Wright. She has a way to perfectly blend my most favorite things seamlessly while still delivering a unique reading experience. In this I was more than pleased to find Roni, a strong-alpha-female who is lethal, smart and sassy but willing to submit in the bedroom (after some power play of course) to a worthy man. Marcus is playful, charming, sexy and dangerous, he wasn't intimidated with Roni's strength and smarts, he fully embraced all that she is and stood proudly by her side. They both are natural born protectors, both understand the meaning of showing no mercy.
This had action, humor, playful banter, sexual tension, claim staking and some darker themes; it really has it all. Feral Sins will always be my favorite in the bunch, it was the beginning, and I know well enough that there will never be another Trey and Taryn. With that mind set, everything after has lived up to the standard that the author has set and has never disappointed me. I have been invested in this series from day one, loving how we keep getting more and hope it never stops. Awesome read and highly recommended for those who love their paranormal erotic reads.
ARC kindly provided by Amazon Publishing, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
***Quotes above are taken from the ARC version of the book and may differ upon publication.
April 6, 2015
4 Sexy Stars.
If you’re familiar with this series you already know who both Roni and Marcus are. Both enforcers in their packs, they know how to be strong and have to fight for themselves and their packs. Marcus is a badass used to have every element of the opposite sex flying around him. But Roni, despite being a badass girl, she is a little “tomboy” that isn’t always able to see her qualities. Both of them have their own reasons to be closed off to commitment (or mating, in this case), but when Marcus set his eyes on Roni he can’t resist her. He’s decided to have her, but this time he may find the only shifter that his as stubborn as himself.
After the third book of this series have been a little disappointing for me, I was a little scared of starting this one. It wasn’t (at all) as good as the first two, but it was an engaging, sexy reading and I’m always completely unable to resist these books. My main problem with this series is that it takes too much time between books and I had some trouble reminding some of the stuff (and let’s be real… ain’t nobody got time for re-reads!).
But back to what’s important: this was romantic, sexy, engaging, had a little mystery to it and fans of the series will certainly like it. And if you haven’t read this series before and like some PNR, what the heck are you waiting for?!
Rating: 4 Stars.
Characters Development: I liked Marcus, I was afraid some “events” from the previous book were going to re-surface, but as that didn’t happened it was easy to love him, especially after learning more about his past. Ronie was awesome!! She was a freaking badass, fierce and sassy. I loved her! And in this one we had the best of both worlds… or packs in this case, and it was awesome to read.
Steam: Hot.
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
*ARC kindly provided in exchange of honest review.*
If you’re familiar with this series you already know who both Roni and Marcus are. Both enforcers in their packs, they know how to be strong and have to fight for themselves and their packs. Marcus is a badass used to have every element of the opposite sex flying around him. But Roni, despite being a badass girl, she is a little “tomboy” that isn’t always able to see her qualities. Both of them have their own reasons to be closed off to commitment (or mating, in this case), but when Marcus set his eyes on Roni he can’t resist her. He’s decided to have her, but this time he may find the only shifter that his as stubborn as himself.
After the third book of this series have been a little disappointing for me, I was a little scared of starting this one. It wasn’t (at all) as good as the first two, but it was an engaging, sexy reading and I’m always completely unable to resist these books. My main problem with this series is that it takes too much time between books and I had some trouble reminding some of the stuff (and let’s be real… ain’t nobody got time for re-reads!).
But back to what’s important: this was romantic, sexy, engaging, had a little mystery to it and fans of the series will certainly like it. And if you haven’t read this series before and like some PNR, what the heck are you waiting for?!
Rating: 4 Stars.
Characters Development: I liked Marcus, I was afraid some “events” from the previous book were going to re-surface, but as that didn’t happened it was easy to love him, especially after learning more about his past. Ronie was awesome!! She was a freaking badass, fierce and sassy. I loved her! And in this one we had the best of both worlds… or packs in this case, and it was awesome to read.
Steam: Hot.
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
*ARC kindly provided in exchange of honest review.*
March 15, 2023
I love these books !! I know...I've skipped the third book, because of all the reviews on that one, but this one was awesome !! I think it was my favorite. Sure I loved the first book, but damn Marcus was great. Not the mention Roni...one of my favorite heroines ever !! Can't wait for the next book to come out. I never thought I would like shifters and paranormal, but this was so nicely done. Plus really really HOT !!
I'm not gonna do a whole recap of the book, because if you're reading this one, you've probably already read the other books too. There are a lot of really good reviews on here already, so I'll just give my opinion....READ THIS BOOK !!!
5 stars from me
I'm not gonna do a whole recap of the book, because if you're reading this one, you've probably already read the other books too. There are a lot of really good reviews on here already, so I'll just give my opinion....READ THIS BOOK !!!
5 stars from me
May 31, 2015
4 SW Finally Did It Right Stars
So...After two failed attempts in this series, the author finally managed to write another book that I loved. Without the unecessary drama and communication blocks that made the previous two so freakin' tedious.
Roni was just what I expected and wanted of her to be. She was intelligent, driven, funny and confident. She may have allowed her family to interfere with her life a bit more than she should but shen push came to shove she was her own person and she didn't let anything stop her from living her life. Not her past bad experiences, not her overbearing loved ones and not the sexy enforcer of Phoenix Pack, Markus.
Markus on the other hand was exactly what I like in guys. He was laid-back, funny, easy going and behind all this he was a real badass who had no need to prove he was the baddest kid in the neighbohood every ten minutes. He was also a bit of a player but when he decided on Roni he didn't waver, he didn't bemoan his future "taken" status. He wasn't afraid of commitment. when it was to the right girl.
The book had a very minimum amount of drama all things considered. Relationship or otherwise. I think that was what endeared it to me most and the fact that I loved Roni and especially how she managed to get Greta on her side. I enjoyed this book very much!
*************************09/03/2015*************************
I decided that if I don't love this one I'm giving up on the series. If I don't end up loving Roni there is no hope for the rest!
So...After two failed attempts in this series, the author finally managed to write another book that I loved. Without the unecessary drama and communication blocks that made the previous two so freakin' tedious.
Roni was just what I expected and wanted of her to be. She was intelligent, driven, funny and confident. She may have allowed her family to interfere with her life a bit more than she should but shen push came to shove she was her own person and she didn't let anything stop her from living her life. Not her past bad experiences, not her overbearing loved ones and not the sexy enforcer of Phoenix Pack, Markus.
Markus on the other hand was exactly what I like in guys. He was laid-back, funny, easy going and behind all this he was a real badass who had no need to prove he was the baddest kid in the neighbohood every ten minutes. He was also a bit of a player but when he decided on Roni he didn't waver, he didn't bemoan his future "taken" status. He wasn't afraid of commitment. when it was to the right girl.
The book had a very minimum amount of drama all things considered. Relationship or otherwise. I think that was what endeared it to me most and the fact that I loved Roni and especially how she managed to get Greta on her side. I enjoyed this book very much!
*************************09/03/2015*************************
I decided that if I don't love this one I'm giving up on the series. If I don't end up loving Roni there is no hope for the rest!
December 16, 2015
Title: Dark Instincts
Series: The Phoenix Pack, #4
Author: Suzanne Wright
Release Date: april , 2015
Rating: 4 stars
Cliffhanger:. No
HEA:
I really enjoy reading paranormal romance books. There is something thrilling in them. I love the unique settings and plots and kickass characters. So every now and then I leave contemporary romances and jump on the other side of the fence, to have some wicked fun with shifters, vampires or other creatures.
I’ve been following The Phoenix Pack series, for quite some time, so I was very happy to be able to read the new addition to it, even though the previous book Carnal Secrets, left me disappointed and a little bit angry. Still, I decided to give Marcus and Roni’s story a go and to my surprise I really liked it.
The main couple turned out to be a great match. Even though they seemed like total opposites, they were so good together.
Roni’s a badass tomboy and Nick’s sister. She’s fierce, loyal and strong and maybe a little bit quirky but in a good way. Marcus is an enforcer from of the Phoenix Pack. Who’s also a total man whore, but seriously yummy, cannot say no to one. Together they have explosive chemistry and are drawn to each other like magnets.
Dark Instincts is thrilling, sexy read. I’ve read it in few short hours and had lots of fun. The sexual tension between the main characters was nice, the heroine didn’t annoy me and the plot on the whole was very well thought of. I was smiling to myself all the time while reading it! The humor and the banter was that good.
I’m happy to say, that I was satisfied with this story! It was full of what I like the most, sexy alpha wolves *wink, wink* and hot sex. Good addition to the series, I recommend it!
Advanced Review Copy, kindly provided in exchange for honest review
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September 17, 2019
Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK
One of my holiday re-reads 12/25/18
Audio "re-read" 9/17/19
Dark Instincts is the story of Roni, a tough tomboy, and Marcus, an emotionally tortured man whore. Roni is the enforcer for Mercury Pack, working under her Alpha brother who still treats her like she's a little girl. She hides behind her tough exterior so no one see's her vulnerable side, but Marcus can see past her defenses and wants to be the one to help her open up. He goes after her with an intensity that Roni has no chance of ignoring and when they are forced to work with each other after the Jackals stage an attack, their chemistry sparks even more.
Marcus and Roni were the perfect couple! I loved the connection they had, it was hottt. We got to see a sweeter side to Marcus that made me want him even more than his badass seductive side does. The overall character development was great and I liked that we got to see Roni grow to be more confident in herself.
The story kept me interested the whole time, it was the perfect combination of suspense and romance. There was a lot going on in the story but not so much that it was annoying. This series hasn't let me down yet and I can't wait to see what comes next. Please be Ryan, please be Ryan, please be Ryan.
ARC kindly provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
One of my holiday re-reads 12/25/18
Audio "re-read" 9/17/19
Dark Instincts is the story of Roni, a tough tomboy, and Marcus, an emotionally tortured man whore. Roni is the enforcer for Mercury Pack, working under her Alpha brother who still treats her like she's a little girl. She hides behind her tough exterior so no one see's her vulnerable side, but Marcus can see past her defenses and wants to be the one to help her open up. He goes after her with an intensity that Roni has no chance of ignoring and when they are forced to work with each other after the Jackals stage an attack, their chemistry sparks even more.
When Marcus wanted something, he would hunt it down until it was his. And he wanted Roni Axton in his bed...
Marcus and Roni were the perfect couple! I loved the connection they had, it was hottt. We got to see a sweeter side to Marcus that made me want him even more than his badass seductive side does. The overall character development was great and I liked that we got to see Roni grow to be more confident in herself.
The story kept me interested the whole time, it was the perfect combination of suspense and romance. There was a lot going on in the story but not so much that it was annoying. This series hasn't let me down yet and I can't wait to see what comes next. Please be Ryan, please be Ryan, please be Ryan.
ARC kindly provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2019
This is book 4 in the Phoenix Pack series and I thoroughly enjoyed it! Once again we are given an entertaining, funny, sexy and a bit of a mystery thrown in read. I just love seeing all my favourite pack members from the other books, in addition to the main couple!
Marcus has his hands full with his mate!!!! She was fantastic! I loved her idiosyncrasies and how she could fight with the strongest of the male wolves!
Truthfully I could go on and on about this series, and I am so happy I decided to dive into it! I am loving the fact that I get a romance full of the alpha males I adore but also with humour thrown in. I need that lightness in my stories right now and Suzanne Wright delivers a ton of laughs through her extremely loveable characters!
Marcus has his hands full with his mate!!!! She was fantastic! I loved her idiosyncrasies and how she could fight with the strongest of the male wolves!
Truthfully I could go on and on about this series, and I am so happy I decided to dive into it! I am loving the fact that I get a romance full of the alpha males I adore but also with humour thrown in. I need that lightness in my stories right now and Suzanne Wright delivers a ton of laughs through her extremely loveable characters!
April 28, 2015
“I need you, sweetheart. Do you understand me? There’s no point in anything if I don’t have you.”
Dark Instincts is the fourth book in The Phoenix Pack and I can say with complete certainty that it was my favorite. 5 star read all the way.
What makes this one the best? I have two words for you: Roni Axton. This heroine is by far the strongest of all the female shifters in this series. She is a take no prisoners kind of woman.
There is only one wolf who can tame the likes of Roni and that is Marcus. Both Roni and Marcus are enforcers for their respective packs. They fight hard to protect the people that they love. Their loyalty, strength, passion, and courage is what draws them to each other like magnets.
"Initially, Roni’s apparent indifference had galled him. He hadn’t liked that he seemed to be the only one feeling this intense attraction that bordered on magnetism. Every time they were in close proximity, the air crackled with sexual energy, and he hadn’t believed that could possibly be a one-way street."
Marcus makes no qualms about his attraction to Roni. I find this to be a huge plus in a read. I just prefer for things to be out in the open. Why waste time beating around the bush? You can't call this a case of "insta-love" because Marcus is clear that he is in LUST with Roni. Marcus is a flirt and make his intentions towards Roni clear to everyone. A combination of lingered looks and quick touches makes Roni slightly uncomfortable and yet he continues towards winning her over.
Roni is a tomboy and feels like she must keep her emotions locked tight. She loves to escape into her wolf form in order to avoid any drama. Marcus pursues her until she finally breaks down and gives in to the passion. These two together were instantly connected.
"As if they shared the same skin— a sensation she knew she’d feel even when they were apart. She couldn’t see the bond, but she could feel it as surely as she could feel her connection to her arm. She could sense what Marcus was feeling as it hummed through the bond: pure masculine satisfaction."
As shifters, they know they shouldn't imprint (become serious) because if the other found their mate it would cause them both emotional pain. Roni and Marcus share a beautiful friendship that blossoms into a deep romance. Marcus is so protective of Roni and yet doesn't stifle her ability to fight her own battles. It was such a breath of fresh air to read about a shifter couple that had balance in their relationship. They had boundaries and worked hard to respect one another. It doesn't take long for them to realize they want to be together. They aren't afraid to be together. Screw the rules! Forget the expectations of finding your mate. Roni and Marcus just fit!
"If you do come across your mate and recognize him, you’d better hope to God for his sake that he’s stronger than me, sweetheart, or he’s dead. I’ll kill him before I let him take you.” She gaped again. “Sorry you asked?”-Marcus
As the temperature increases between the two (and trust me it is steamy hot), both of their packs are dealing with a Jackal uprising. Roni has to overcome her issues with her mother (and brother) and Marcus has a some baggage to sort out as well. The banter between Roni and her siblings was off the charts. The sprinkled humor kept me smiling the entire time.
While Marcus is with Roni, he recognizes a calmness he has never felt before. He comes to the conclusion that Roni is in fact his true mate after all. Now he just has to convince Roni.
“All the signs are there: the possessiveness, the protectiveness, the jealousy, the intensity, the attraction between our wolves.” That gave him an idea. “Listen to your wolf, sweetheart.”
Roni was so cautious. Instead of finding her protectiveness over her own heart annoying (like many heroines who take forever to come around), I respected her ability to recognize her own needs and desires. She takes time to make sure it is right. When it clicks, her heart is at peace. Still, she doesn't give up her sassiness. Even for her true mate.
“Why shouldn’t you feel balanced, sweetheart? You’re anchored now.” “It doesn’t mean I’ll start smiling or anything.” “Of course not, Dimples.”
Even after Roni and Marcus mated, Roni still rules the relationship. I love what she did to him the day after their mating ceremony. Let's jut say you don't want to make this heroine angry because she will make you pay! In a "laugh out loud" and "wish I had thought of that" way.
“I need you to listen up, sweetheart. Hear me when I say that you are more important to me than any thing in this world. I’m proud to have you as a mate. Everything about you appeals to me— your strength, your intelligence, your complexity, your frankness, and the fact that you use pointless facts as social repellents. And let’s not forget your ass. I love your addictively supple body, sweetheart, but especially that phenomenal ass.”-Marcus
Marcus and Roni were such a great addition to this series. This read was full of action, steam, suspense, and brought me back to the pack. I never imagined I would be a paranormal fan and yet I find that each book in this series draws me in every time. If you enjoy a strong heroine and a supportive hero then you will truly enjoy this read. I can't wait for the next book in the series!
Dark Instincts is the fourth book in The Phoenix Pack and I can say with complete certainty that it was my favorite. 5 star read all the way.
What makes this one the best? I have two words for you: Roni Axton. This heroine is by far the strongest of all the female shifters in this series. She is a take no prisoners kind of woman.
There is only one wolf who can tame the likes of Roni and that is Marcus. Both Roni and Marcus are enforcers for their respective packs. They fight hard to protect the people that they love. Their loyalty, strength, passion, and courage is what draws them to each other like magnets.
"Initially, Roni’s apparent indifference had galled him. He hadn’t liked that he seemed to be the only one feeling this intense attraction that bordered on magnetism. Every time they were in close proximity, the air crackled with sexual energy, and he hadn’t believed that could possibly be a one-way street."
Marcus makes no qualms about his attraction to Roni. I find this to be a huge plus in a read. I just prefer for things to be out in the open. Why waste time beating around the bush? You can't call this a case of "insta-love" because Marcus is clear that he is in LUST with Roni. Marcus is a flirt and make his intentions towards Roni clear to everyone. A combination of lingered looks and quick touches makes Roni slightly uncomfortable and yet he continues towards winning her over.
Roni is a tomboy and feels like she must keep her emotions locked tight. She loves to escape into her wolf form in order to avoid any drama. Marcus pursues her until she finally breaks down and gives in to the passion. These two together were instantly connected.
"As if they shared the same skin— a sensation she knew she’d feel even when they were apart. She couldn’t see the bond, but she could feel it as surely as she could feel her connection to her arm. She could sense what Marcus was feeling as it hummed through the bond: pure masculine satisfaction."
As shifters, they know they shouldn't imprint (become serious) because if the other found their mate it would cause them both emotional pain. Roni and Marcus share a beautiful friendship that blossoms into a deep romance. Marcus is so protective of Roni and yet doesn't stifle her ability to fight her own battles. It was such a breath of fresh air to read about a shifter couple that had balance in their relationship. They had boundaries and worked hard to respect one another. It doesn't take long for them to realize they want to be together. They aren't afraid to be together. Screw the rules! Forget the expectations of finding your mate. Roni and Marcus just fit!
"If you do come across your mate and recognize him, you’d better hope to God for his sake that he’s stronger than me, sweetheart, or he’s dead. I’ll kill him before I let him take you.” She gaped again. “Sorry you asked?”-Marcus
As the temperature increases between the two (and trust me it is steamy hot), both of their packs are dealing with a Jackal uprising. Roni has to overcome her issues with her mother (and brother) and Marcus has a some baggage to sort out as well. The banter between Roni and her siblings was off the charts. The sprinkled humor kept me smiling the entire time.
While Marcus is with Roni, he recognizes a calmness he has never felt before. He comes to the conclusion that Roni is in fact his true mate after all. Now he just has to convince Roni.
“All the signs are there: the possessiveness, the protectiveness, the jealousy, the intensity, the attraction between our wolves.” That gave him an idea. “Listen to your wolf, sweetheart.”
Roni was so cautious. Instead of finding her protectiveness over her own heart annoying (like many heroines who take forever to come around), I respected her ability to recognize her own needs and desires. She takes time to make sure it is right. When it clicks, her heart is at peace. Still, she doesn't give up her sassiness. Even for her true mate.
“Why shouldn’t you feel balanced, sweetheart? You’re anchored now.” “It doesn’t mean I’ll start smiling or anything.” “Of course not, Dimples.”
Even after Roni and Marcus mated, Roni still rules the relationship. I love what she did to him the day after their mating ceremony. Let's jut say you don't want to make this heroine angry because she will make you pay! In a "laugh out loud" and "wish I had thought of that" way.
“I need you to listen up, sweetheart. Hear me when I say that you are more important to me than any thing in this world. I’m proud to have you as a mate. Everything about you appeals to me— your strength, your intelligence, your complexity, your frankness, and the fact that you use pointless facts as social repellents. And let’s not forget your ass. I love your addictively supple body, sweetheart, but especially that phenomenal ass.”-Marcus
Marcus and Roni were such a great addition to this series. This read was full of action, steam, suspense, and brought me back to the pack. I never imagined I would be a paranormal fan and yet I find that each book in this series draws me in every time. If you enjoy a strong heroine and a supportive hero then you will truly enjoy this read. I can't wait for the next book in the series!
December 31, 2022
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★Book Basics★
Genre : - Paranormal Romance
Series : - 4th in the series
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 4.5 stars
★Review★
Ok, so I liked this one more than book 3, but maybe slightly less than book 1 so it sits firmly at a 4.5.
Again, quite similar characters, but the author does it well, and there is enough of a difference at the moment, that I am not fed up of it.
And again my complaint I had in book 3, what is it with EVERY other female pretty much. They are all nasty. We had a nasty aunt, GF of one of the pack enforcers, a lying seer etc.....also, seems like Phoenix and Mercury pack are the only 2 decent packs in the world.
But anyway, this was maybe a touch darker than previous books, just given the plot that provided the tension and suspense.
Loved Roni and how awkward she was, and her random facts.
Roni and Marcus together were awesome.
However, I felt this a touch in book 3, and more so in this book, that the last 2 books have been basically set ups for The Mercury Pack series, and while I do plan on reading that, quite frankly for me, I want to stay with the Phoenix Pack, there are still so many intriguing pack members there, Trick, Tao, RYAN!!
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Paranormal Romance
Series : - 4th in the series
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 4.5 stars
★Review★
Ok, so I liked this one more than book 3, but maybe slightly less than book 1 so it sits firmly at a 4.5.
Again, quite similar characters, but the author does it well, and there is enough of a difference at the moment, that I am not fed up of it.
And again my complaint I had in book 3, what is it with EVERY other female pretty much. They are all nasty. We had a nasty aunt, GF of one of the pack enforcers, a lying seer etc.....also, seems like Phoenix and Mercury pack are the only 2 decent packs in the world.
But anyway, this was maybe a touch darker than previous books, just given the plot that provided the tension and suspense.
Loved Roni and how awkward she was, and her random facts.
Roni and Marcus together were awesome.
However, I felt this a touch in book 3, and more so in this book, that the last 2 books have been basically set ups for The Mercury Pack series, and while I do plan on reading that, quite frankly for me, I want to stay with the Phoenix Pack, there are still so many intriguing pack members there, Trick, Tao, RYAN!!
June 17, 2016
***3.5 Stars***
"I never stood a chance, did I?"
"Of what?"
"Holding out against you."
"Nope. I was too determined to have you."
I have been wrapped up in this series for a week now and this book has just continued to feed my addiction!
I love the dynamic of all of these characters. And now that we've added the Mercury Pack to the mix....I'm in wolf shifter heaven!
Roni and Marcus were the perfect balance for each other. Marcus allowed Roni to be who she was. He found her quirks endearing and her strength admirable. He didn't need her to be a cookie cutter female...he allowed her to shine in her own unique way. I love how he slowly broke down her defenses...he didn't push or crowd or manipulate. He simply refused to give up and proved over and over again to Roni that he was genuinely interested in her.
In turn, Roni saw the man beneath Marcus's easy-going playboy facade. She saw that there was so much more to him than what he showed the world. She allowed him to open up to her and share the things that he keeps hidden...the insecurities and family history that has forced him to build a wall around his heart.
However, while I really liked Marcus and Roni as a couple, and found that they were very well matched...I just didn't feel the passion between them like I did with previous couples. Were they hot together? Hell yes. But I was missing that extra spark...the little bit of OOOMPH to make their chemistry leap off the page.
Also, I think the suspense plot overshadowed the building of their relationship a little bit, especially in the second half. I was completely intrigued by the mystery of what was going on with the jackals and their sick underground operation (the climactic fight at the end - I WAS COMPLETELY GLUED TO MY KINDLE!) but I felt that the unraveling and investigation of what was going on took away from the romance element.
But even with the couple of things I was a little underwhelmed or disappointed with, I couldn't put this book down! I am completely invested in the dynamic of every relationship offered in this series....from mated couples to friends to family. And with the addition of another pack, now there's more for me to love! Quick shout out to the hilarious pranks between Roni and her brother, Eli and the love/hate relationship between Marcus and Nick.
I know Ryan's book is next, but man am I itching for Dominic's book! I can't wait to see who's going to finally crack that nut.
November 25, 2017
Bloody hawt damn...
Look at this equation:
Badass dominant female shifter (a true she-wolf)+ badass dominant male shifter + action + owerpowering sexual dominance play = one mother effin hawt sexy read
Bravo, Suz!👍
December 30, 2015
4.5 Stars
Roni Axton is highly intelligent, on the genius scale, but socially awkward and somewhat of a tomboy. All this is very different from the women Marcus Fuller usually goes for. Yet, Roni draws him like magnet and he finds her social awkwardness, with her tendency to blurt out random facts when she gets nervous, adorable. With her skittishness, Marcus realized if he was to have any success, he needed to take it slow and cautious with Roni:
He focused on her intensely, but he didn’t overwhelm her with full force of his personality—he gave her enough physical and emotional space for her to be relaxed around him…as if he knew exactly what she needed. He lured, cajoled, and charmed her, wanting her to make her own way to him as opposed to forcing himself on her. She liked that.
Oh, swoon! Marcus!
Marcus recognizes the strength in Roni and what others don’t get: she’s a force to be reckoned with, one that he’d very much like to take on. I just love it when a man appreciates the strengths of his woman and supports them!
Roni’s an enforcer for her brother, Nick’s pack and their close alliance with the Phoenix Pack brings her into Marcus Fuller’s proximity far too many times for comfort. She knows he’s a player and a huge flirt, but that doesn’t stop her from having very dirty, late night fantasies about him. Yet, lately it seems like Marcus is more and more focused on her, but she doesn’t want to become just another notch in his belt.
Marcus felt completely different toward Roni than any other woman prior, so I was completely on board for this matchup! And I was happy when Roni started to realize this. She deserved to be someone’s one and only. I appreciated that Marcus accepted and desired Roni for exactly who she was and didn’t try and change her. Why would he when he felt she was perfect just as she was? Don’t we all want that?
Her mother and aunt’s treatment infuriated me. Although, I have to say her mother’s treatment was coming from a somewhat good place.
I have to say, I do adore shape-shifter romances. They can be so intense because of the animalistic urges and the concept of a true-mate makes even insta-love/attraction acceptable. It’s thrilling when done right. Not that I felt that Roni and Marcus had a case of insta-love, I felt their romance was well founded and their connection was a natural progression even with strong shifter bonds at the root.
Suzanne Wright excels at writing supremely HOT scenes and combustible physical attraction and so, of course, Marcus and Roni’s romance was hot, off the charts hot!!
It was awesome to catch up with the previous couples and shape shifters. I laughed at every cheesy pick up line Domique hurled at Roni:
Dominic was grimacing and rubbing his knee. “Do you have a Band-Aid?” he asked Roni.
Her brow puckered. “No, why?”
“I just scraped my knee falling for you.”
Lol!
Don’t let all the humor and romance fool you. There was a scary plot at the heart of things and I was horrified by the details. Action, danger were also a big part of this captivating story. I was in awe of Roni’s kick-ass skills and rooting for her at every step!
Dark Instincts was yet another delicious installment in the Phoenix Pack series. I can’t get enough of Suzanne Wright’s addictive writing! Next, please!
A copy was kindly provided by Montlake Romance via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Roni Axton is highly intelligent, on the genius scale, but socially awkward and somewhat of a tomboy. All this is very different from the women Marcus Fuller usually goes for. Yet, Roni draws him like magnet and he finds her social awkwardness, with her tendency to blurt out random facts when she gets nervous, adorable. With her skittishness, Marcus realized if he was to have any success, he needed to take it slow and cautious with Roni:
He focused on her intensely, but he didn’t overwhelm her with full force of his personality—he gave her enough physical and emotional space for her to be relaxed around him…as if he knew exactly what she needed. He lured, cajoled, and charmed her, wanting her to make her own way to him as opposed to forcing himself on her. She liked that.
Oh, swoon! Marcus!
Marcus recognizes the strength in Roni and what others don’t get: she’s a force to be reckoned with, one that he’d very much like to take on. I just love it when a man appreciates the strengths of his woman and supports them!
Roni’s an enforcer for her brother, Nick’s pack and their close alliance with the Phoenix Pack brings her into Marcus Fuller’s proximity far too many times for comfort. She knows he’s a player and a huge flirt, but that doesn’t stop her from having very dirty, late night fantasies about him. Yet, lately it seems like Marcus is more and more focused on her, but she doesn’t want to become just another notch in his belt.
Marcus felt completely different toward Roni than any other woman prior, so I was completely on board for this matchup! And I was happy when Roni started to realize this. She deserved to be someone’s one and only. I appreciated that Marcus accepted and desired Roni for exactly who she was and didn’t try and change her. Why would he when he felt she was perfect just as she was? Don’t we all want that?
Her mother and aunt’s treatment infuriated me. Although, I have to say her mother’s treatment was coming from a somewhat good place.
I have to say, I do adore shape-shifter romances. They can be so intense because of the animalistic urges and the concept of a true-mate makes even insta-love/attraction acceptable. It’s thrilling when done right. Not that I felt that Roni and Marcus had a case of insta-love, I felt their romance was well founded and their connection was a natural progression even with strong shifter bonds at the root.
Suzanne Wright excels at writing supremely HOT scenes and combustible physical attraction and so, of course, Marcus and Roni’s romance was hot, off the charts hot!!
It was awesome to catch up with the previous couples and shape shifters. I laughed at every cheesy pick up line Domique hurled at Roni:
Dominic was grimacing and rubbing his knee. “Do you have a Band-Aid?” he asked Roni.
Her brow puckered. “No, why?”
“I just scraped my knee falling for you.”
Lol!
Don’t let all the humor and romance fool you. There was a scary plot at the heart of things and I was horrified by the details. Action, danger were also a big part of this captivating story. I was in awe of Roni’s kick-ass skills and rooting for her at every step!
Dark Instincts was yet another delicious installment in the Phoenix Pack series. I can’t get enough of Suzanne Wright’s addictive writing! Next, please!
A copy was kindly provided by Montlake Romance via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 24, 2015
Release date April 7, 2015.
***The synopsis for "Dark Instincts"***
It happens whenever wolf shifter Roni Axton is near Marcus Fuller: a crackle of sexual awareness that’s intoxicating…and deeply annoying. Marcus is a pack enforcer who oozes power, but Roni is lethal in her own right—nothing like the flirty females who flock around him. Even still, his possessive gaze makes one thing clear. Marcus has singled her out for seduction, and he wants to make her sit up and beg.
No matter how aloof and unfazed Roni acts, Marcus can tell she wants him. When a brutal attack by a jackal pack forces them to work together, it’s the perfect opportunity for Marcus to chip away at her defenses—until he falls into his own trap, completely unprepared for the intensity of their connection. Roni is the only one who’s ever seen past his shifter charm and discovered the man hiding beneath it. And for Marcus, claiming Roni once will mean needing her forever.
***The synopsis for "Dark Instincts"***
It happens whenever wolf shifter Roni Axton is near Marcus Fuller: a crackle of sexual awareness that’s intoxicating…and deeply annoying. Marcus is a pack enforcer who oozes power, but Roni is lethal in her own right—nothing like the flirty females who flock around him. Even still, his possessive gaze makes one thing clear. Marcus has singled her out for seduction, and he wants to make her sit up and beg.
No matter how aloof and unfazed Roni acts, Marcus can tell she wants him. When a brutal attack by a jackal pack forces them to work together, it’s the perfect opportunity for Marcus to chip away at her defenses—until he falls into his own trap, completely unprepared for the intensity of their connection. Roni is the only one who’s ever seen past his shifter charm and discovered the man hiding beneath it. And for Marcus, claiming Roni once will mean needing her forever.
August 11, 2016
4.5 hot and hilarious paranormal stars
I love this series! An adult PNR based in the shifter world, these books are fast paced, exciting, sexy and romantic, and absolutely freaking hilarious! The character dynamics are fantastic, and the constant stream of insults, wise cracks, banter and teasing make these books such an enjoyable read, and I absolutely loved this one! It’s fourth book in the Phoenix Pack series and brings us the story of Marcus and Roni.
Roni is the younger sister of Mercury Alpha, Nick, and was introduced in the last book. Like the other heroines in the series, she is a tough, no-nonsense female. She has had a rough past, but she’s come through it and is now an Enforcer for her brother, and she and Marcus have been sharing broody stares and flirty banter for a while. Marcus is a Phoenix Pack Enforcer, a dominant shifter, a chronic flirt and a bit of a manwhore, and he’s decided that he wants Roni. Things start to get interesting when Roni and some of the other wolves in their packs are injured in an attack, and the two of them are teamed up to investigate the threat – putting them in almost constant contact with each other. And what follows are the wise-cracks, epic banter and dirty flirting that I love about this series
Roni is a total smartass, and she wants Marcus just as much as he wants her, but she’s not a ‘relationship’ kind of person, and as hot as he gets her, she wants nothing to do with the slutty playboy. But Marcus isn’t to be deterred.
The UST builds brilliantly, and explodes in a frenzied, lust-fuelled encounter full of dirty talk, aggression and possession, and OMG, it’s so freaking HOT!!! Suzanne Wright writes great smut, and this book had me frequently fanning myself!
But there is more to these two than just sex, and what I loved most about them together is that there is no back and forth, there’s no stupid, and there’s no angst. They hook up, they realise the connection that they share, and they move forward to explore that further. Things develop naturally, and they work through their issues together, and they are open with each other the whole time.
Marcus, in particular, isn’t shy about his intentions - he’s forward, possessive and protective, but he’s not a mindless, controlling alpha and he wants to start something special with Roni. He appreciates her strength and outspokenness and he treats her as an equal and is always incredibly respectful of her, and I loved that. Actually, I loved everything about Marcus, and really enjoyed getting to know him better. He’s happy to let people think that he’s just a player, but there’s so much more to him. His life hasn’t been perfect, and a prediction for his future by a seer has left him unenthusiastic about his future, but he doesn’t let that get to him. He lives life on his own terms and goes after what he wants, and is completely unapologetic about it, and I loved that about him!
Roni is a complex character. She’s thought of as a quiet, awkward, anti-social tom-boy, and she’s content to let people think that of her while she happily flies under the radar, but, like Marcus, there is so much more to her. She has been through a lot, and she carries a lot of guilt for all that her family has gone through on her behalf, but she’s so incredibly strong. I love that, even with the way she is, she is open to exploring something with Marcus, and I love that she doesn’t let what she has been through dictate who she is and how she behaves. Plus, she has the most wicked sense of humour (her pranks with her brother, Eli, had me in hysterics!) and I loved her straight, no-nonsense nature.
There’s a fair bit of action with the Phoenix and Mercury packs teaming up to track a rogue pack of jackals who are violently, disturbingly and publicly attacking and slaughtering both humans and shifters. The action is intense, violent and a wee bit gory and the big climax had me on the edge of my seat as it all unfolded.
I love the continuation we get for the other couples of the series. Trey and Tarryn, Dante and Jaime, and Nick and Shya all appear, with some great story progression for them. I particularly loved seeing Nick as the protective alpha mate and brother – and his ongoing arguing with Marcus is hilarious!
Fast-moving, exciting and highly entertaining, I devoured this book. I listened to it as an audiobook, and like the previous books in the series, narrator Jill Redfield does a sensational job inhabiting the characters and bringing the story to life. I got swept up in the heat and passion between Marcus and Roni, my heart was pounding during the heavy action, and I laughed so hard all the way through at the antics of this fantastic group of characters. I couldn’t put it down.
I absolutely loved it – 4.5 stars.
An Advanced Reader Copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I love this series! An adult PNR based in the shifter world, these books are fast paced, exciting, sexy and romantic, and absolutely freaking hilarious! The character dynamics are fantastic, and the constant stream of insults, wise cracks, banter and teasing make these books such an enjoyable read, and I absolutely loved this one! It’s fourth book in the Phoenix Pack series and brings us the story of Marcus and Roni.
Roni is the younger sister of Mercury Alpha, Nick, and was introduced in the last book. Like the other heroines in the series, she is a tough, no-nonsense female. She has had a rough past, but she’s come through it and is now an Enforcer for her brother, and she and Marcus have been sharing broody stares and flirty banter for a while. Marcus is a Phoenix Pack Enforcer, a dominant shifter, a chronic flirt and a bit of a manwhore, and he’s decided that he wants Roni. Things start to get interesting when Roni and some of the other wolves in their packs are injured in an attack, and the two of them are teamed up to investigate the threat – putting them in almost constant contact with each other. And what follows are the wise-cracks, epic banter and dirty flirting that I love about this series
“I’m not your type,” she again insisted.
He didn’t deny it, since it would only insult her intelligence. “And yet, I want nothing more than to strip you naked and have my wicked way with you.” She said nothing. “You want me as much as I want you, Roni … Admit it. I dare you.”
…
“When she didn’t answer, Marcus persisted. “Roni?”
“Sorry, I was just imagining putting a moth in your mouth. I saw it in a movie once.”
Roni is a total smartass, and she wants Marcus just as much as he wants her, but she’s not a ‘relationship’ kind of person, and as hot as he gets her, she wants nothing to do with the slutty playboy. But Marcus isn’t to be deterred.
“Cocky asshole.”
“Not cocky … just determined to get what I want.”
“A fuck.”
“You,” he corrected. … “I’ve wanted you since the second I laid eyes on you, sweetheart, and that’s not going to change.”
The UST builds brilliantly, and explodes in a frenzied, lust-fuelled encounter full of dirty talk, aggression and possession, and OMG, it’s so freaking HOT!!! Suzanne Wright writes great smut, and this book had me frequently fanning myself!
But there is more to these two than just sex, and what I loved most about them together is that there is no back and forth, there’s no stupid, and there’s no angst. They hook up, they realise the connection that they share, and they move forward to explore that further. Things develop naturally, and they work through their issues together, and they are open with each other the whole time.
“Your brother’s going to tell you that I’m not good for you.”
Taken aback by the comment, she blinked him. He discreetly nodded toward Nick. If that scowl was anything to go by…“Yep.”
“He thinks I’m a slut.”
“Yep.”
“He’s going to confront me about it at some point, order me to stay away from you.”
“Yep.”
“But I won’t.” Marcus held her gaze, not wanting her to miss the determination in his eyes. “Just thought you should know.”
Marcus, in particular, isn’t shy about his intentions - he’s forward, possessive and protective, but he’s not a mindless, controlling alpha and he wants to start something special with Roni. He appreciates her strength and outspokenness and he treats her as an equal and is always incredibly respectful of her, and I loved that. Actually, I loved everything about Marcus, and really enjoyed getting to know him better. He’s happy to let people think that he’s just a player, but there’s so much more to him. His life hasn’t been perfect, and a prediction for his future by a seer has left him unenthusiastic about his future, but he doesn’t let that get to him. He lives life on his own terms and goes after what he wants, and is completely unapologetic about it, and I loved that about him!
“As far as I’m concerned, you’re mine. I marked you and I staked a claim on you, and I wouldn’t do either of those things lightly. If you do come across your mate and recognise him, you’d better hope to God for his sake that he’s stronger than me sweetheart, or he’s dead. I’ll kill him before I let him take you.”
Roni is a complex character. She’s thought of as a quiet, awkward, anti-social tom-boy, and she’s content to let people think that of her while she happily flies under the radar, but, like Marcus, there is so much more to her. She has been through a lot, and she carries a lot of guilt for all that her family has gone through on her behalf, but she’s so incredibly strong. I love that, even with the way she is, she is open to exploring something with Marcus, and I love that she doesn’t let what she has been through dictate who she is and how she behaves. Plus, she has the most wicked sense of humour (her pranks with her brother, Eli, had me in hysterics!) and I loved her straight, no-nonsense nature.
She pointed at her pussy. “Well, it’s not going to lick itself.”
There’s a fair bit of action with the Phoenix and Mercury packs teaming up to track a rogue pack of jackals who are violently, disturbingly and publicly attacking and slaughtering both humans and shifters. The action is intense, violent and a wee bit gory and the big climax had me on the edge of my seat as it all unfolded.
I love the continuation we get for the other couples of the series. Trey and Tarryn, Dante and Jaime, and Nick and Shya all appear, with some great story progression for them. I particularly loved seeing Nick as the protective alpha mate and brother – and his ongoing arguing with Marcus is hilarious!
“You should have called me immediately.”
“No, she should have called me straight away. “I’m her Alpha, and her brother.”
Marcus glanced at Nick curiously. “You say that like you’re more important than me. I’m confused.”
Fast-moving, exciting and highly entertaining, I devoured this book. I listened to it as an audiobook, and like the previous books in the series, narrator Jill Redfield does a sensational job inhabiting the characters and bringing the story to life. I got swept up in the heat and passion between Marcus and Roni, my heart was pounding during the heavy action, and I laughed so hard all the way through at the antics of this fantastic group of characters. I couldn’t put it down.
I absolutely loved it – 4.5 stars.
An Advanced Reader Copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 8, 2017
Expectations: the act or state of looking forward or anticipating.
Now expecting something and hyping a book because I can't wait for it to come out usually doesn't work in my favor as I am usually really disappointed. Please stand up for Ms. Wright and give her a round of Applause for such a great book in the Phoenix Pack Series.
So I was wondering how Ms. Wright was going to carry on with a good plot and this was amazing so unexpected.
Marcus is an Enforcer for the Phoenix Pack. Roni is an Enforcer for the Mercury Pack.
We met Roni Axton in
. Roni is Nick's sister and had a near rape when she was a teenager. Everybody thinks that Roni suffers from that experience which isn't the case. She has her reasons why she always leaves and with a Family like Nick and Kathy (her mother) no wonder. They coddle her and make her out to be weak which she isn't. Roni has felt attracted to Marcus for a while now and well she isn't his usual type. She isn't foo foo of high maintenance. I love Roni from her kickassness to her personality to her intelligence. She is so socially ackward that she tries to repel people with her lollipops and her weird and quirky facts. Marcus finds her endearing and intriguing.
"Did you know that thousands of different bacteria can be found in a person's belly button?"
"Roni"
"What? What did I say?"
Marcus Fuller might be smooth, open and easy going but there are depths to him that noone sees apart from Roni. Marcus doesn't bulldoze into Roni's life he is a sneaky wolf. He is also obsessed with food. He was once told by the seer that his mate would be too needy as he has seen with his parents.
"Does this mean with have time to make more Food?" Marcus put his Hand to his stomach. "I'm still hungry." Everyone rolled their eyes. "What?"
Roni and Marcus have off the Charts chemistry and I love how they are together. They made my heart melt. What I don't get is that they don't see what is right under their noses. Duh!!
I love their banter together.
"What?" "You just smiled"
"I did not." "I saw it." "You were hallucinating."He shook his head, chuckling. "Nope, I saw you smile. I saw those pretty Little dimples." "I do not have dimples Fuller!"
Roni wrapped the old shrew Greta round her little finger it was amazing to see that. I also liked that the Thing with Trick and certain benefits were cleared up. All I can say really is that I need more of the Phoenix Pack or the Mercury Pack I'm not picky. We also have the usual banter with the others and they like roleplay Sailor Joe and Fireman Sam.
I had the honor to receive an advance reading copy of Dark Instincts by Suzanne Wright whichwas generously provided to me via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 24, 2015
3.5 stars!
I've been waiting over a year for this book and the moment I heard it was available for early review I jumped to obtain a copy. I was beyond excited to read more about my favorite werewolf crew and I thought for sure this would be another hit. And while I did like this book, it unfortunately is not a favorite.
If you've been following this series you already know who Marcus and Roni are. Marcus is the flirty, fun enforcer of the Phoenix Pack and Roni is the younger sister of Nick, the Alpha from the Mercury Park. These two couldn't be more different. Marcus is friendly and very sociable, Roni is socially awkward and just doesn't seem to like people much. Marcus loves his women flirty and girly and Roni is a gamer and converse sneakers kind of girl. A tom boy to the max. Yet the moment they are anywhere near each other, they're is something that keeps pulling them together. But both are commitment phobe's who are much happier with causal than anything serious. What will it take for these two to open their hearts to each other?
I loved the romance and the fact that the woman are always so strong and independent. They don’t take shit from anyone, not even from the men in their lives and I love how they demand to be treated as equals. Roni may be socially awkward and emotionally detached from almost everyone but the people that she does care for, she will protect with her life. One of my favorite things about these books are the female characters. They are so bad ass and I love how the men accept that and never try to bend them into something they are not.
The fact of the matter is, this book had everything that I would normally love and guarantee a 5 star rating but I had a hard time connecting with this story and its characters. I feel like it took me so long to read this-mainly because I was so okay with putting it down and doing other things. That NEVER happens to me unless I’m not feeling the book. While I eventually got into, I never felt like I loved it. I cared for Roni and Marcus but I felt like I was being told how they felt for each other rather than being showed it. It made me detach a bit from the story and lose interest.
It takes a year for each book to come out and I’m sorry for saying this but they’re starting to feel not worth the wait :( Maybe my expectations were too high. waiting for a book for over a year and hyping it up can do that I suppose but this one just didn’t live up to my expectations. It’s also such a long time that I felt confused at first as to who was who and what was going on. If you have the time, a reread or at least a quick skim of the previous book would do you good.
Despite not loving this one I would love to read more for this pack. I desperately want the rest of the males to get a book and find their mates. Feral Sins will always be my favorite but I still highly recommend this series to paranormal lovers everywhere.
I've been waiting over a year for this book and the moment I heard it was available for early review I jumped to obtain a copy. I was beyond excited to read more about my favorite werewolf crew and I thought for sure this would be another hit. And while I did like this book, it unfortunately is not a favorite.
If you've been following this series you already know who Marcus and Roni are. Marcus is the flirty, fun enforcer of the Phoenix Pack and Roni is the younger sister of Nick, the Alpha from the Mercury Park. These two couldn't be more different. Marcus is friendly and very sociable, Roni is socially awkward and just doesn't seem to like people much. Marcus loves his women flirty and girly and Roni is a gamer and converse sneakers kind of girl. A tom boy to the max. Yet the moment they are anywhere near each other, they're is something that keeps pulling them together. But both are commitment phobe's who are much happier with causal than anything serious. What will it take for these two to open their hearts to each other?
I loved the romance and the fact that the woman are always so strong and independent. They don’t take shit from anyone, not even from the men in their lives and I love how they demand to be treated as equals. Roni may be socially awkward and emotionally detached from almost everyone but the people that she does care for, she will protect with her life. One of my favorite things about these books are the female characters. They are so bad ass and I love how the men accept that and never try to bend them into something they are not.
The fact of the matter is, this book had everything that I would normally love and guarantee a 5 star rating but I had a hard time connecting with this story and its characters. I feel like it took me so long to read this-mainly because I was so okay with putting it down and doing other things. That NEVER happens to me unless I’m not feeling the book. While I eventually got into, I never felt like I loved it. I cared for Roni and Marcus but I felt like I was being told how they felt for each other rather than being showed it. It made me detach a bit from the story and lose interest.
It takes a year for each book to come out and I’m sorry for saying this but they’re starting to feel not worth the wait :( Maybe my expectations were too high. waiting for a book for over a year and hyping it up can do that I suppose but this one just didn’t live up to my expectations. It’s also such a long time that I felt confused at first as to who was who and what was going on. If you have the time, a reread or at least a quick skim of the previous book would do you good.
Despite not loving this one I would love to read more for this pack. I desperately want the rest of the males to get a book and find their mates. Feral Sins will always be my favorite but I still highly recommend this series to paranormal lovers everywhere.
February 24, 2017
This was a good addition to the Phoenix Pack series. I really enjoyed Marcus and Roni's relationship. The way they are completely accepting of each other, even with both of their oddities. It was perfect. They were both a little broken but together they soothed out those jagged pieces and fit together. I also really liked how we got to see all our favourite characters from pass books. Its always fun the way that Suzanne Wright writes her group scenes. I always have a smile on my face while I read those.
The only reason that this is a four star and not a five is because I felt like the background story with the Jackals could have been more detailed. It at times felt like that was almost an afterthought and then at the end it wrapped up all neat and quick. Still a good book but I personally feel like with Paranormal Romances you really need a lot more meat to the story.
But I love these characters and I love Suzanne Wright so I will definitely be reading the next in the series!!
ARC provided by Netgalley for an honest review
The only reason that this is a four star and not a five is because I felt like the background story with the Jackals could have been more detailed. It at times felt like that was almost an afterthought and then at the end it wrapped up all neat and quick. Still a good book but I personally feel like with Paranormal Romances you really need a lot more meat to the story.
But I love these characters and I love Suzanne Wright so I will definitely be reading the next in the series!!
ARC provided by Netgalley for an honest review
June 4, 2015
Really enjoyed Roni and Marcus' story.
Roni isn't my favorite character in this series, per say, but she is still an awesome heroine. I loved her relationship with Marcus!!!
I just can't wait for trick's and ryan's story. So curious about how that is going to play down
2015???
I at least hope something comes out from Ms. Wright this year
Roni isn't my favorite character in this series, per say, but she is still an awesome heroine. I loved her relationship with Marcus!!!
I just can't wait for trick's and ryan's story. So curious about how that is going to play down
2015???
I at least hope something comes out from Ms. Wright this year
January 25, 2018
Narrator Review:
This is the same narrator as in book 1-3. I feel that she was very consistent in her portrayal of these characters. Jill Redfield really does a good job of distinguishing the different characters and brings them to life. I would recommend the audio version of this book.
Story Review:
I really enjoyed Roni and Marcus's story. Roni is one of those heroines that are rare to find. You know the ones that play it cool and don't fawn all over the Hero? Yeah, I love to read about this kind of couple. I would much rather find the Hero having to work for the heroine and that's what you get here. It is even better when the Hero is a playboy that turns completely loyal to Roni when they get together. There is some other woman drama but I loved how Roni handled it.
I will say the conflict in this story was pretty gruesome. It made me cringe to find out what a pack of Hyena's were doing to other shifters and humans. This book starts out where Shaya, Roni and Tao took little Kye to the zoo. As they were heading home, they were in an accident that was caused by a group of Hyena shifters trying to snatch Kye. As the story unfolds we find out why they were trying to kidnap little Kye and it's not pretty.
I felt in the first 3 books there was bit too much pushing away by the main couples but I did not feel that way in this book. While Roni played it cool with Marcus, she never really pushed him away. She just didn't realize he was serious about pursuing her since he is known to be a playboy.
This does have mentions of rape and abuse. There is a pretty gruesome fight scene towards the end that had me biting my nails.
This is the same narrator as in book 1-3. I feel that she was very consistent in her portrayal of these characters. Jill Redfield really does a good job of distinguishing the different characters and brings them to life. I would recommend the audio version of this book.
Story Review:
I really enjoyed Roni and Marcus's story. Roni is one of those heroines that are rare to find. You know the ones that play it cool and don't fawn all over the Hero? Yeah, I love to read about this kind of couple. I would much rather find the Hero having to work for the heroine and that's what you get here. It is even better when the Hero is a playboy that turns completely loyal to Roni when they get together. There is some other woman drama but I loved how Roni handled it.
I will say the conflict in this story was pretty gruesome. It made me cringe to find out what a pack of Hyena's were doing to other shifters and humans. This book starts out where Shaya, Roni and Tao took little Kye to the zoo. As they were heading home, they were in an accident that was caused by a group of Hyena shifters trying to snatch Kye. As the story unfolds we find out why they were trying to kidnap little Kye and it's not pretty.
I felt in the first 3 books there was bit too much pushing away by the main couples but I did not feel that way in this book. While Roni played it cool with Marcus, she never really pushed him away. She just didn't realize he was serious about pursuing her since he is known to be a playboy.
This does have mentions of rape and abuse. There is a pretty gruesome fight scene towards the end that had me biting my nails.
March 16, 2017
*Received from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review*
"Feeling someone fiddle with the back of her top, Roni twisted to see Dominic reading the label inside her collar. “What are you doing?” He just nodded. “Made in Heaven. I knew it.”
That about sums up the fabulous humor in this book. The amount of action was great. Trying to figure out who was behind a botched kidnapping and a sick, twisted website that showed videos of horrible acts. I wish Roni didn't think so lowly of her looks and herself in general, but I love that Marcus was always there to reassure her she was just perfect in his eyes. I liked getting more of the back stories of some of the people in the Mercury Pack as well.
"Feeling someone fiddle with the back of her top, Roni twisted to see Dominic reading the label inside her collar. “What are you doing?” He just nodded. “Made in Heaven. I knew it.”
That about sums up the fabulous humor in this book. The amount of action was great. Trying to figure out who was behind a botched kidnapping and a sick, twisted website that showed videos of horrible acts. I wish Roni didn't think so lowly of her looks and herself in general, but I love that Marcus was always there to reassure her she was just perfect in his eyes. I liked getting more of the back stories of some of the people in the Mercury Pack as well.
May 26, 2018
4 Hot Hot Hot Stars
I really do like listening to these books in audio format. It’s available on Kindle unlimited in ebook and audio format so you can’t lose. I listened to the first three books and I will probably listen to the rest of the series.
The last book wasn’t steamy, but this one was off the charts hot. I think this one was the hottest in the series.
Marcus and Roni are enforcers which means they are soldiers that have rank. Roni isn’t your typical Heroine, she’s a tom boy, she doesn’t wear make-up and she says awkward facts. She’s usually not my cuppa of Heroine to read because I like them girly, but I do like how strong she is. Nick is her brother so she is one tough cookie.
Marcus… well I don’t have much to say for him. He doesn’t have the best parents so he has a chip on his shoulder and it makes him really guarded. I wished I had a better connection to him, but it didn’t hinder my experience.
In this book the Jackals are the bad guys and I like how each book has a new villain, it kind of keeps us on our toes.
I’m happy to say I’m understanding more of this mating bond stuff because it was kind of confusing for the first few books only because there are soooo many levels.
Here is what I know.
- You can have sex with someone and that is just sex
- You can have sex with someone, but he/she is your bf / gf and you can imprint on them if you kind of want to make it official. But it’s possible he/she isn’t your true mate and when you find your true mate, you can unbreak the imprint but it will hurt the other person.
- You can have a true mate but your bond isn’t fully form. True mate is like the upper level of the relationship. I’m not sure if you can break from your true mate, maybe? I know your true mate can die and you can find another true mate? I might have to get back to you on that. You can connect at the mental level,
- The final is the True mate, fully bond. You have given yourself completely to the other person and at that point you can offer strength through your connection.
SEE! How confusing it can be.
So here’s the whole submissive and dominate thing.
An Alpha male is the only alpha in the pack and he usually hooks up with a female alpha. Same goes with a beta male, but I don’t think there’s beta females.
Usually a dominate male hooks up with a dominate female. The dominate female can be submissive in bed, but she will never fully give up control. She can give up control, but that doesn’t mean she can’t take it back.
I’m not sure if there are submissive males. Maybe regular males that hook up with submissive females?
I will have to get back to you on that.
On with that said… I’m out.
I really do like listening to these books in audio format. It’s available on Kindle unlimited in ebook and audio format so you can’t lose. I listened to the first three books and I will probably listen to the rest of the series.
The last book wasn’t steamy, but this one was off the charts hot. I think this one was the hottest in the series.
Marcus and Roni are enforcers which means they are soldiers that have rank. Roni isn’t your typical Heroine, she’s a tom boy, she doesn’t wear make-up and she says awkward facts. She’s usually not my cuppa of Heroine to read because I like them girly, but I do like how strong she is. Nick is her brother so she is one tough cookie.
Marcus… well I don’t have much to say for him. He doesn’t have the best parents so he has a chip on his shoulder and it makes him really guarded. I wished I had a better connection to him, but it didn’t hinder my experience.
In this book the Jackals are the bad guys and I like how each book has a new villain, it kind of keeps us on our toes.
I’m happy to say I’m understanding more of this mating bond stuff because it was kind of confusing for the first few books only because there are soooo many levels.
Here is what I know.
- You can have sex with someone and that is just sex
- You can have sex with someone, but he/she is your bf / gf and you can imprint on them if you kind of want to make it official. But it’s possible he/she isn’t your true mate and when you find your true mate, you can unbreak the imprint but it will hurt the other person.
- You can have a true mate but your bond isn’t fully form. True mate is like the upper level of the relationship. I’m not sure if you can break from your true mate, maybe? I know your true mate can die and you can find another true mate? I might have to get back to you on that. You can connect at the mental level,
- The final is the True mate, fully bond. You have given yourself completely to the other person and at that point you can offer strength through your connection.
SEE! How confusing it can be.
So here’s the whole submissive and dominate thing.
An Alpha male is the only alpha in the pack and he usually hooks up with a female alpha. Same goes with a beta male, but I don’t think there’s beta females.
Usually a dominate male hooks up with a dominate female. The dominate female can be submissive in bed, but she will never fully give up control. She can give up control, but that doesn’t mean she can’t take it back.
I’m not sure if there are submissive males. Maybe regular males that hook up with submissive females?
I will have to get back to you on that.
On with that said… I’m out.
April 7, 2015
In the fourth Phoenix Pack book, Roni Axton (the sister of Nick Axton, hero of book 3). She’s been in an accident with her brother’s mate and godson, and attacked by jackals. This brings her into closer contact with the enforcer from the Phoenix pack, Marcus. Marcus has been working on Roni’s defenses for a while now, trying to get closer to her and to have her any way he can get her, whether she’s his true mate or not. And of course, romance happens.
The Good, The Bad and Everything In Between
- This may be the best of the Phoenix pack series : I’ve liked the snark and the smex in the earlier books, but I think this is the one where it all starts to come together. The ‘verse is expanding and there’s an interesting outside enemy in the jackals and their complete disregard for all life. In addition, the relationships between the Phoenix and Mercury packs have really started to gel and feel more realistic (loved Roni’s pranks on her brother Eli), adding a nice emotional layer to the overall series. I will say that it would probably be difficult to read on its own, since there are so many characters from previous books.
- Roni’s delightfully straightforward and socially awkward : Roni’s a dominant female shifter being driven crazy by her overprotective brother and emotionally distant mother. I really enjoyed her lack of BS. She’s insecure at times (not often) but never whiny about it.
- Marcus is a fantastic gamma type of hero : he’s alpha is all the great ways, and beta in the way he was completely and utterly secure in himself and supportive of Roni. He didn’t push to dominate and protect, but supported her as she helped herself. It was lovely.
- A bit repetitive : Telling me over and over about the dominance of shifters or explaining over and over Marcus and Roni’s relationship issues was unnecessary. Not horrible, but noticeable. A bit of editing would have tightened up the narrative.
- Not a fan of the stereotypical shallow female antagonists : Seems in all of the books there is at least one or more shallow horrible women, just for the sake of being shallow and horrible. It’s disappointing in its simplicity. I will say that the friendships between Taryn, Roni, Shaya and Jaime made up for it.
The Bottom Line (3.5 stars)
I think this is my favorite. I really liked Roni and Marcus’ romance and I’m looking forward to more Phoenix Pack stories.
**ARC provided by publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
The Good, The Bad and Everything In Between
- This may be the best of the Phoenix pack series : I’ve liked the snark and the smex in the earlier books, but I think this is the one where it all starts to come together. The ‘verse is expanding and there’s an interesting outside enemy in the jackals and their complete disregard for all life. In addition, the relationships between the Phoenix and Mercury packs have really started to gel and feel more realistic (loved Roni’s pranks on her brother Eli), adding a nice emotional layer to the overall series. I will say that it would probably be difficult to read on its own, since there are so many characters from previous books.
- Roni’s delightfully straightforward and socially awkward : Roni’s a dominant female shifter being driven crazy by her overprotective brother and emotionally distant mother. I really enjoyed her lack of BS. She’s insecure at times (not often) but never whiny about it.
- Marcus is a fantastic gamma type of hero : he’s alpha is all the great ways, and beta in the way he was completely and utterly secure in himself and supportive of Roni. He didn’t push to dominate and protect, but supported her as she helped herself. It was lovely.
- A bit repetitive : Telling me over and over about the dominance of shifters or explaining over and over Marcus and Roni’s relationship issues was unnecessary. Not horrible, but noticeable. A bit of editing would have tightened up the narrative.
- Not a fan of the stereotypical shallow female antagonists : Seems in all of the books there is at least one or more shallow horrible women, just for the sake of being shallow and horrible. It’s disappointing in its simplicity. I will say that the friendships between Taryn, Roni, Shaya and Jaime made up for it.
The Bottom Line (3.5 stars)
I think this is my favorite. I really liked Roni and Marcus’ romance and I’m looking forward to more Phoenix Pack stories.
**ARC provided by publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
March 14, 2015
Thank you to MONTLAKE and Netgalley for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars
Initial thoughts:
First off, I just want to say that I think this is a case of 'it's not you, it's me' with this book. I loved the first one in the series, the second was very good, but the third just wasn't for me. I considered dropping the series after that, but once I start a series of books, I'm like a dog with a bone. It's very hard for me to give it up, but I should have let this one go.
Diving in...
There was too much Nick and Shaya in this book for me. Maybe if I'd liked either one of them, I would have been OK with it, but I didn't care for their story, and I never warmed up to either one of them. In fact, there was too much of everyone in this book - except for Marcus and Roni. They felt like a side story in their own book.
I also felt like some of the scenes were recycled from previous books, though this could be a case of the shifter culture being so heavy, and the heroines all act alike. Their dialogue could be interchangeable; I just don't feel like there's enough distinction between them.
Having said that...this author writes amazing steamy scenes, and the ones in this book were no exception. Though the first sex scene, which was very pivotal and primal in the first few books, felt tamer here. The hotter stuff comes a bit later in the book.
I really liked Roni and Marcus, and there were parts of their story I really enjoyed. I loved the dynamic between them. The way Marcus treated her with such respect and was affronted anytime someone else didn't made him a great hero. I just wish they'd played bigger parts in the book.
If you liked Carnal Secrets, I think you'll like this one, too. It just wasn't for me.
2.5 stars
Initial thoughts:
First off, I just want to say that I think this is a case of 'it's not you, it's me' with this book. I loved the first one in the series, the second was very good, but the third just wasn't for me. I considered dropping the series after that, but once I start a series of books, I'm like a dog with a bone. It's very hard for me to give it up, but I should have let this one go.
Diving in...
There was too much Nick and Shaya in this book for me. Maybe if I'd liked either one of them, I would have been OK with it, but I didn't care for their story, and I never warmed up to either one of them. In fact, there was too much of everyone in this book - except for Marcus and Roni. They felt like a side story in their own book.
I also felt like some of the scenes were recycled from previous books, though this could be a case of the shifter culture being so heavy, and the heroines all act alike. Their dialogue could be interchangeable; I just don't feel like there's enough distinction between them.
Having said that...this author writes amazing steamy scenes, and the ones in this book were no exception. Though the first sex scene, which was very pivotal and primal in the first few books, felt tamer here. The hotter stuff comes a bit later in the book.
I really liked Roni and Marcus, and there were parts of their story I really enjoyed. I loved the dynamic between them. The way Marcus treated her with such respect and was affronted anytime someone else didn't made him a great hero. I just wish they'd played bigger parts in the book.
If you liked Carnal Secrets, I think you'll like this one, too. It just wasn't for me.
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