Wolf shifter Knox is thrilled to find his fated mate…until the sassy omega rejects him.
Danny tried the relationship thing, and it ended violently. He has no desire to let another alpha close enough to hurt him…especially not an intimidating stranger like Knox.
Knox has never been called patient. He's grumpy and stubborn, and he's afraid he'll inadvertently push Danny further away.
But when a rogue wolf pack threatens the omegas of Grizzly Ridge, Danny must trust Knox if he wants to escape with his life—and heart—intact.
A.J. Cane is a neurospicy, asexual/panromantic author who writes LGBTQIA+ paranormal romance with love interests who will make you swoon. Her special interests include reading, writing, and eating way too much chocolate.
- bear shifter + wolf shifter - fated mates - omegaverse - hurt x comfort - slow burn - mpreg
What should been the happiest moment of his life is tainted by a past abusive relationship, and Danny isn’t sure he’s ready to trust another alpha.
When a rogue wolf pack begins terrorizing Grizzly Ridge and threatening omegas, Danny quickly realizes that Knox is nothing like his ex and sparks fly as the pair grow closer.
I loved Knox and Danny so much! Knox was so patient and kind, and I loved how he was always careful not to cross any of Danny’s boundaries. & poor Danny, he blamed himself for the abuse that happened to him, but when it came down to facing his ex, he held his own and I was so proud of him!
Very classical and pure shifter-romance in the best meaning of this word!
I waited a year for this book, and I’m not disappointed! A.J. Cane gave me three hours of pure reading pleasure, which totally made me swoon! The author proves that in this industry, it’s not just the big names who can produce great books, and I’m thrilled about that. I first discovered A.J. Cane a year ago with the first book in this series, which won me over. She stays true to the principles of the Shiftverse, keeping it clear and consistent. It resonates with me deeply, bringing back memories of the first omegaverse books I read about wolves and bears shifting into humans in small, secluded forest towns where omegas were omegas, alphas were alphas, and not everyone felt the need to switch roles.
What I appreciate most about Cane is how she values the unique role of omegas, without forcing them to be just mere copies of alphas. Danny is an omega who really wishes he were stronger and braver, but one day, his mom tells him:
“As omegas, our power comes from our clan. We inspire their loyalty. We give the alphas something to protect. We bring everyone together and keep the clan whole and healthy. Just because we aren’t as physically powerful as they are doesn’t mean we aren’t strong in our own way.”
Danny fights with all his might not to be a helpless omega, but he does it… in an omega way! The author handles it so cleverly, creating something for readers like me who enjoy submissive omegas and also for those who prefer omegas that aren't damsels in distress. I have to say, that balance is hard to achieve, and it’s rare in new books. Many big authors lean toward mainstream “need-no-men” (alphas) types, so it’s usually with smaller authors like AJ Cane that I find what I’m looking for.
Why should softer, nurturing roles be seen as lesser than aggressive, dominant ones? Why should omegas have to be just like alphas? They’re equal, but different, and that’s okay! I dislike this criticism of gentleness and sensitivity, and the push for every omega to be a copy of an alpha.
This author gives me the joy of reading about alphas and omegas, and that’s why I love her books.
The book is such a delight to read—a very classic shifter story in the best sense, with isolated cabins in the woods, police procedures, omega kidnappings, tracking, shifting, and a team of alpha cops. It’s all the best bits that readers like me loved in books from a decade ago and are harder to find these days.
I appreciated Knox's character; he was straightforward and masculine without being rough, and was very patient. His level-headed nature complemented Danny well, who was vulnerable and gradually overcoming his trauma.
The story is truly satisfying, plus we get a teaser for the next book with Reid and Zander! Reid is a mage! Oh, wow, it sounds amazing! Because we’ve got a problem with an existing mating bond, but shhh, no spoilers. I guess I’ll be patiently waiting another year for the next book!
This was so cute. I loved shifter and mpreg stories and this one was fantastic. Danny had been in an abusive relationship and was afraid to trust another alpha again, even his mate. He worked through his trauma and the final confrontation with his ex arrived, he fought back and was strong. He did everything he could to came back to his mate. Knox was a sweet man. He never forced anything on Danny, everything was at Danny's rhythm. He was so patient and understanding, not many people would be. But he wasn't willing to give up on his mate. He fought tooth and nail for them to be together and they finally were
The Wolf's Wounded Omega by A.J. Crane is the second book in the Grizzly Ridge series. This MM shifter romance follows the story of Knox, a wolf shifter, and Danny, an omega who has been hurt in the past and is wary of relationships. Knox is thrilled to find his fated mate in Danny, but Danny's past experiences make him hesitant to trust Knox.
The book delves into themes of trust, healing, and the power of love. Knox's grumpy and stubborn nature contrasts with Danny's cautious and wounded demeanour, creating a dynamic and engaging relationship. The tension escalates when a rogue wolf pack threatens the omegas of Grizzly Ridge, forcing Danny to rely on Knox for protection.
A.J. Crane's writing style is engaging and emotionally resonant. Crane excels at creating deep, multi-dimensional characters. Both Danny and Knox are well-developed, with their own distinct voices and personalities. The author delves into their inner thoughts and emotions, making their journey feel authentic and relatable.
The writing is rich with emotional intensity, capturing the pain, hope, and gradual healing of the characters. Crane effectively uses dialogue and internal monologues to convey the characters' struggles and growth. The author paints vivid scenes, whether it's the tension-filled moments with the rogue wolf pack or the tender, intimate interactions between Danny and Knox. The descriptions help to immerse readers in the world of Grizzly Ridge.
The story maintains a good balance between action and romance. The pacing ensures that the plot progresses steadily, keeping readers engaged without feeling rushed. Crane weaves themes of trust, healing, and the power of love throughout the narrative. These themes are explored thoughtfully, adding depth to the romance and making the characters' journey more impactful.
The Wolf’s Wounded Omega can be read as a standalone. Although reading in order gives a better experience. However, I read Wounded Omega first, then went back and read Brave Omega. I still 100% enjoyed Wounded Omega, but having now read the first book, I’d suggest reading in order. Although if you do start with Wounded Omega, be warned that you will want to go back to read the first book!!
Overall, A.J. Crane's writing style enhances the emotional and romantic elements of the story, making it a compelling read, and I can’t recommend it highly enough.
The Wolf's Wounded Omega is the second book in the Grizzly Ridge series. This book can be read as a standalone but why not enjoy the first book in the series also. This is the story of Knox an alpha wolf shifter and Danny and omega wolf shifter. I loved this book and the way A.J. Cane handles the shifterverse. Danny has a lot to work through and Knox is more than willing to help him. When an rogue wolf pack threatens omegas Danny and Knox will have to trust each other to get their happy ending. Can they work everything out, you'll have to read the book to find out. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
This was a good follow-up to book one. The struggles that Danny and Knox endure to build enough trust to build their relationship made for an interesting story to read. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
Genre: MM omegaverse Roles: Strict t/b Cheating: No Spice level: 2/5 Angst level: Medium Overall tone: Dramatic at places Size difference: One slender, one jacked Length: 278 pages Ending: HEA Series: Standalone!
The Wolf's Wounded Omega by A.J. Crane is everything I love about shifter romances rolled into one. It’s the second book in the Grizzly Ridge series, and it’s packed with all the feels, a bit of action, and some seriously adorable moments.
Danny’s an omega who’s been through some rough stuff, and trust doesn’t come easy for him. Then there’s Knox, a wolf shifter and total sweetheart who’s super patient and respectful of Danny’s boundaries. The way their relationship develops is such a slow burn, but it makes everything feel so real and rewarding. Watching Danny open up and find his strength while Knox quietly supports him is just so satisfying.
And Knox? He’s got this gruff, quiet vibe, but underneath it, he’s the kind of alpha everyone wishes they had—kind, protective, and swoon-worthy. The way he handles Danny’s fears and insecurities is just chef’s kiss. Seriously, we need more alphas like Knox in these kinds of stories.
The action parts, with the rogue wolf pack causing trouble in Grizzly Ridge, keep the story exciting without overpowering the romance. I loved how it added tension and gave Danny and Knox a chance to team up. Plus, the world-building in this series is solid—fated mates, shifter dynamics, a cozy small-town vibe—it’s all the stuff that makes omegaverse fans happy.
You can read this as a standalone, but honestly, starting with The Bear's Brave Omega (the first book in the series) makes it even better.
Overall, this is such a feel-good shifter romance with a nice mix of action, emotional moments, and just the right amount of spice. Highly recommend if you’re into omegaverse or just love a good fated mates story!
Una lectura agradable y sencilla. Un fated mate slow burn que está bien. Hay cosas buenas y ni tan buenas y me chirria un poco que el proximo libro tendrá un plot parecido a otro libro que acabo de leer pero bueno...
Me gustó mucho la mezcla de Fated mates y misterio de esta serie.
Knox es todo malote por fuera, pero cuando se trata de Danny es súper dulce. Solo quiere lo mejor para su compañero, a pesar de lo que diga su lobo, decide ganarse la confianza de Danny.
This was an interesting story. It was a slow burn because Danny just came out of an abusive relationship. Because of that, they waited weeks (maybe months) to finally claim each other instead of the 1 day it normally takes. I read this as a standalone but You will get more backstory if you read the 1st book.
I received this book from GRR and this is my honest review. angst 3/5 heat 2.5/5 story 3.5/5 POV dual
I got bored early on, but kept going. Then at 60%, it just felt never-ending, so I skimmed to 75% and just decided it was time. Normally, DNFs get 1 ⭐️ on my rating scale. However, because this book is technically written well, and these issues seem to be more of a “me thing” than a “you thing,” I added a star.
Basically, the story was just too slow and repetitive for me. I was glad to see Danny begin to heal, but at the same time, I didn’t feel there was much depth to his or Knox’s character. And I really dislike stories that have the MCs being almost completely hands-off and then, bam!, full-on sex. Where’s the lead up and sexual tension? Such a missed opportunity for this couple. I got very little satisfaction once they finally got together after such an insane slow burn (if it can even be called that).
Additionally, the whole premise of the shifters being naked all the time, for extended periods of time, is just silly. I read a lot of shifter romance, and there are authors out there that write this issue of nudity and clothes so much better. Then there’s the issue of humans: it’s unclear why some humans are in the know while the majority are not. And it’s not explained if all of them—humans, shifters, warlocks—are alpha/omega (are there betas?). This world just needs more development and refinement. I’d expect a shallow world-building in a novella, but this is a full-length series.
Lastly, I’m so over the gender ideology that MM writers feel HAS to be included in their books, especially when it comes to youth. There’s no such thing as a trans or non-binary child. These ideologies are taught, not naturally occurring. And it’s a very dangerous thing. Children don’t know enough to make informed decisions for themselves, and brains aren’t fully developed until 25…that’s facts and science. Why are there age requirements and recommendations on so many potentially harmful or influential things: sexually explicit books - 18+, smoking - 18+, sexual consent - 18+, drinking - 21+, driving - 15+, movie ratings, game ratings, etc. Anyways, I hope this trend ends soon. I’d like to clarify, I don’t care if there’s a trans or whatever character in a book that’s an ADULT. But having youth characters like that, and adult characters saying that kids can decide what gender they are so they’re not defining them as boy or girl at birth, is where my issue lies. Adults can make their own decisions and can live with those. And what’s happening now isn’t education, it’s grooming and indoctrination.
I read book one, but don’t recall how I liked it (didn’t review it), but I won’t be continuing this series.
This second book follows the theme of fated mates, so typical of shifter romances. As I’ve mentioned many times, instalove, generally speaking, isn’t for me, and the only exception I usually make is precisely when the predestination of fated mates comes into play.
In these cases, I don’t mind that the MCs fall in love so easily because it’s established that something greater is driving them, and it’s understood that they are made for each other, even if they don’t really know each other yet.
This time, Knox arrives at Grizzly Ridge when he catches a trace of his mate on Milo (the MC of the first book). He expects that upon arriving in town and discovering who it is, they will accept him and begin their new happy life together. What he doesn’t expect is for Danny to panic and run as soon as he realizes the bond connecting them and who Knox is for him.
Danny, the youngest in the family and the only omega, has just come out of an abusive relationship that left him traumatized, with a very negative view of alphas and low self-esteem. In this state, he doesn’t feel capable of accepting Knox, though Knox isn’t willing to give up so easily and decides to give him the time and space he needs.
The romance is straightforward, based on how perfect they are for each other but how difficult their situation is. Despite this, Danny and Knox share a connection that develops relatively quickly, as Danny’s instincts urge him to give the newcomer a chance, even though his mind resists.
The plot is slightly complicated by the presence of a rogue wolf pack lurking around town and the constant threat posed by Danny’s ex. Even so, the storyline is simple, tends to be predictable, and focuses mainly on Danny’s journey toward healing, Knox’s perseverance, and how the two gradually find common ground until Danny finally feels strong enough to move forward with his life.
I wouldn’t say this is an unforgettable series, nor would I recommend it blindly and enthusiastically. However, I think if you know what to expect and are in the mood for something like this, it works well because the style is fresh and straightforward. And if you’re a fan of this type of plot, it’s actually quite enjoyable.
The Wolf’s Wounded Omega by A.J. Cane is book 2 of The Grizzly Ridge Series.
« bear shifter x wolf shifter » « omegaverse » « fated mates » « slow burn » « hurt x comfort » « mpreg »
I have been impatiently waiting for Knox and Danny’s story and it did not disappoint! I LOVED them together.
Knox had a lot to redeem himself for after taking part in Milo’s kidnapping in book 1. What I love most about this series as that the omegas and alphas don’t fall into the stereotypes that in so many omegaverse stories. Knox is very patient and follows Danny lead. He is not the overbearing and controlling alpha stereotype at all. Knox was way sweeter than I anticipated but I really adored that about him.
Danny and Knox are both broken boys, but in different ways. Poor sweet Danny. The abuse he suffered at the hands of his ex, has greatly impacted him and how he sees himself. He compared himself to his alpha brothers. He feels a lot of shame about not fight back and because of that he thinks he is a weak omega. No matter how much the people around him tell him otherwise, this is something he needs to realize for himself. He is put into a traumatic situation where he finally proves it to himself that he not weak and is a worthy mate. Knox was exiled from his pack after his father tried killing him for being a threat to his position as pack alpha. Knox questions if he is worthy of love – he thinks if his own family didn’t love him or want him, how could Danny? Danny kept him at a distance for his own reasons, but it did not help his fears and insecurities that Danny did not know at the time.
I just loved these two together so much! I loved how Knox was so patient and sweet, and Danny became protecting of Knox and also demanding on his wants (😉🌶) when he was finally ready to embrace the bond with Knox.
I cannot wait for Zander’s and Reid’s story next! It doesn’t seem like they have had the best start, so I am looking forward to seeing how that plays out.
[I received an ARC of this book from gay romance reviews, and this is my honest review.]
The story of Danny and Knox is emotionally charged and really leaves its mark on you. Danny is a bear shifter from the small town of Grizzly Ridge. He survived an extremely abusive relationship with an Alpha who emotionally and physically hurt him, leaving Danny afraid of Alphas and not feeling like he can trust any romantically in the future. This is a problem when his fated mate Knox, an Alpha wolf shifter follows Danny’s scent to the small town and is overjoyed to find him. What should have been the happiest moment of their lives is tainted by Danny’s past and leaves Knox feeling confused when Danny runs from him.
Knox is very patient and understanding of Danny and the trauma that he suffered in the past. He never tries to push their relationship or his own agenda. He only wants to be close to Danny to love and support him and be that safe space for him. Knox becomes Danny’s silent protector and slowly Danny begins to trust him, realizing that he is nothing like his ex. Their relationship slowly progresses in a really authentic and heartwarming way, especially when Danny relies on Knox for safety.
When a rogue pack of wolves sets up close to Grizzly Ridge and begins targeting the town’s omegas and trying to kidnap them, things take a turn for the worse and become dangerous for Danny. Knox refuses to give up his mate and fights to keep him safe and to create the HEA that they both deserve.
This story is written really well, and it is engaging with a thoughtful balance between the action and romance. It has a wonderful cast of characters who are dynamic and well developed. There are high intensity moments of action and really sweet tender moments between Knox and Danny that focus on the hopes, healing, trust, and struggles of the pair as they develop together and become close.
I definitely recommend starting with book one and reading the whole series as I have enjoyed both books so far and will definitely be picking up book three which has already broken my heart with the introduction of the mage and his backstory.
I received a free copy of this book from the author, and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
The Wolf's Wounded Omega is a paranormal/shape shifter MM romance by AJ Cane, and is the second book of the Grizzly Ridge series. This can be read as a standalone, I did this, and had zero issues picking up all the necessary threads in the story.
As the title implies, a wolf shifter finds his fated mate in an emotionally and physically wounded omega who is wary about love, romance and mating. Knox is an alpha wolf shifter, he was shunned by his pack but is finding a new home among the bear shifter pack of Grizzly Ridge. And fate certainly has a part to play when he meets his fated mate, omega bear shifter, Danny, son of the current alpha and brother to the town's sheriff. Danny was hurt by his ex and that has him scared to trust his bear's mating instincts. It's up to Knox to show his sassy mate that he can be trusted.
I really enjoyed reading as Knox and Danny get to know each other. While Knox can be a grumpy alpha, he has a softer side that he needs to channel when it comes to his mate. I appreciated that I got to know Knox alongside Danny and get to know his caring side. However, Danny also has a softer side that he tries to hide behind his strength, and it is all because of trauma with his ex. Danny goes through quite a journey in this book, and much like how enjoyed the development of Knox's character, I also enjoyed Danny's development.
A great read for anyone that enjoys MM shifter and omegaverse romances. There seems to be a lot going on in Grizzly Ridge and I will be keeping an eye out for more.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
THE WOLF'S WOUNDED OMEGA is the second book in the Grizzly Ridge series. I haven't read the first book but I really want to now! Knox was a bit of a grey character in that story from what I can make out, but switches to the 'good' side when he smells his mate on the kidnapped Miles' clothing. He arrives in Grizzly Ridge hoping to be with his mate. Unfortunately for him, Danny has recently got out of an abusive relationship with Rex and runs at the sight of another big alpha who could hurt him.
This story gripped me from the very beginning. Danny has quite a few issues to work through, thanks to Rex, but Knox is there to provide support, patience, and encouragement every step of the way. Danny stands up for his mate when he realises the townspeople aren't giving Knox a fair time, which I thought was wonderful. Knox also has issues that Danny helps with. His backstory made my eyes fill up on more than one occasion.
Not only do you have the story with Knox and Danny, but you also get what I think is the overarching story regarding rogue wolves, plus Rex makes a few appearances. It all ties in perfectly together, making a real page-turner that kept me enthralled.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this story but I would suggest you read book one first to get the full enjoyment.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books! Dec 5, 2024
There are too many choices (too many TBRs (too many TBR lists), too many ARCs (too many ARC lists), too many new books (too many new book lists). I've made soooo many choices today. So...I choose to go off script (yes, again) and read a book that randomly poped up on my phone last night. Here's AJ Cane's "The Wolf's Wounded Omega." It's the second novel in the Grizzly Ridge series.
["Wolf shifter Knox is thrilled to find his fated mate…until the sassy omega rejects him.
Danny tried the relationship thing, and it ended violently. He has no desire to let another alpha close enough to hurt him…especially not an intimidating stranger like Knox.
Knox has never been called patient. He's grumpy and stubborn, and he's afraid he'll inadvertently push Danny further away.
But when a rogue wolf pack threatens the omegas of Grizzly Ridge, Danny must trust Knox if he wants to escape with his life—and heart—intact."]
DANNY!!
I love how slow burn and yet romantic this story was. It was protective in all of the best ways, possessive without being toxic, and learning to trust again as you fall in love. It was beautiful.
I, quite frankly, really, really like this series. I can't wait for the next one!!
Trigger Warnings: abusive ex, parental abuse, violence, PTSD, kidnapping, drugging, stalking, and more.
I loved this book! I wanted to just give Knox and Danny the biggest hug; they both suffered a lot of needless grief because of the mental and physical abuse Danny suffered at the hands of his ex making him terrified of other alphas. Even his fated mate. At their first meeting, Danny took one look at Knox and shifted, taking off running in terror breaking Knox’s heart as he thought his mate was rejecting him as he’d been rejected so many times in the past.
Knox had my heart. You would think my sympathy would lie with the omega, and I did love him but Knox was just special. He was the alpha of every omega’s dream…patient to the point of pain at his own expense, protective even with no actual commitment and all while suffering from the fear of rejection from the mate that fate had chosen for him.
This was such a good book! Even with everything they went through, there was still so much sweetness and light that whether or not you care for much drama, it won’t matter, you’re still gonna fall in love with it. And the ending, it set up what I’m hoping is the next book with Danny’s brother, Zander, and his fated mate who was inconsolable, mourning the death of a mate who had forced a mating on him in the name of power. You just have to get this book, I can’t really explain why in a way that doesn’t give too much away but just do it, you’ll be so glad you did. For myself, I loved it and give it 5 stars!!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Danny got beat up again for talking to his brother Zander when Rex had him down was kicking Danny did a partial shift after he had been hit in the head to get away but Rex still grabbed him. But then Everett another brother saved Danny he felt like a failure because he needed help. At his parents he was trying to find the scent he had smelled then was introduced to Knox a new member of the clan and went running. Everett was told to be patient with Danny as he had hurt pretty bad in his relationship. Knox was exiled because his father was scared of him then rogue wolves came to town. They were causing a lot of problems, they took an omega that watched the children Knox found him. Rex tried to hurt Danny again but Knox was there before that happened. Danny did accept Knox as his mate but Danny was tranqed and taken plus two more were taken he woke up with 7 other omegas in the basement with him. Rex came to get Danny as payment for helping them and he couldn’t access his bear to get away. Knox sent a picture to someone for help and was sent where Danny was at. Rex took Danny and put him in a cell in his basement, the other omegas were saved and found one of the guys helping the wolves was Zander’s mate. Danny fought Rex went running for the road where Knox found him and Rex taken care up plus found more that had been taken.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Book two of the Grizzly Ridge series settles the rogue pack problem and sets up for book three. Wounded Omega features the Alpha's youngest son, Danny, an omega. Danny spent eighteen months in an escalating abusive relationship, and he's ashamed that he was 'too weak' to escape it. His three alpha brothers work in law enforcement or Search and Rescue, while he's 'just a baker'. Knox, an alpha wolf shifter, has a few strikes against him. He helped kidnap the mate of one of the alpha bear brothers. But he helped rescue him. And his mate, Danny, rejected him. He's tolerated rather than accepted by the clan. Knox moved torturously slow wooing Danny. Move forward, backing down when Danny gets uncomfortable. I may have skimmed a trigger warning, but one is definitely needed for readers who've had abusive trauma. Knox's patience and just the little things he did for his mate was just "ahhh". There's good worldbuilding. Supportive and loving family, with slightly overbearing big brothers. There's danger and mating angst. Knox and Danny sizzle together. Two main problems: How can humans not know about shifters in this small town? And why didn't anyone start self defense lessons with the omegas? A quick read. Both fun and 'worrying when the next shoe drops' adventure. I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my review.
Danny's ex was not only physically and mentally abusive, he is incapable of moving on or understanding the meaning of "it’s over." It is easy to understand why he was so overwhelmed and scared when his fated mate turned up - a bad boy looking stranger that oozes dominance. His flight-or-flight response is natural and is handled so compassionately by the author.
Knox is the greenest of green flags when it comes to his mate. He is patient, kind, sweet, and does his very best to gently romance the scared omega. Sadly, because of Danny's initial reaction to him, the community refuses to accept Knox as one of their own - to the point where he is nearly destitute. But for Danny, the alpha is willing to weather all storms - from a violent and possessive ex to ostracization.
This is such a sweet hurt/comfort story. It delivers on all the warm fuzzy feels while keeping the pacing brisk and exciting. Danny's family is also the best support system the couple could ask for. Hopefully, there will be a book three because the first two books in this series are a delight.
Recommend for fans of Minerva Howe, Taylor Rylan, and G.L. Carriger.
* I received a free eARC through GRR. All opinions expressed are my own and left without compensation. *
Ever since I read Milo and Everett's book (The Bear's Brave Omega) I was excited for Danny's happy ending. Meeting Knox initially I wasn't sure he could redeem himself, however I was wrong. His patients and care for Danny throughout was so freaking sweet. I absolutely loved them together. The town of Grizzly Ridge feels like it's right out of Hallmark. We got glimpse at Zander's mate and now I can't wait for book #3.
Tropes: • Shifter/Omegaverse • Wolf x Bear Shifters • Hurt/Comfort • Grumpy x Sunshine • HEA
Cheating: Third-act breakup: POV: Dual POV (First Person POV) I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
This was a sweet, slightly complicated read, with a relationship shy omega and an outcast wolf shifter finding each other. I haven’t read the first book in the Grizzly Ridge series but I don’t think you need to – although the main couple from that are in this book, things are explained enough that this can be read as a stand-alone. I say complicated because it wasn’t as simple as see mate, fall for mate, mated!
I liked the fact that Danny didn’t immediately bounce back from what he went through, and that despite the biology telling him (and Knox) that they were meant to be together, they worked through things at a human pace. It felt more real – as did the reactions of Danny’s pack when it became obvious that Knox was his mate. Seeing someone you care about going through what Danny went through was bound to make the people who loved him wary of anyone new, but I also really liked the way they were prepared to give Knox a chance and appreciated him for what he brought to the pack.
The story does seem to be a continuation of a larger arc for everyone, but this was a good, solid read and I enjoyed my visit to Grizzly Ridge. I received an ARC from GRR.
Danny and Knox’s story is one of an abused bear shifter omega meeting his alpha wolf shifter fated mate, but with enough left over trauma from his previous relationship, he is unable to accept his mate. Knox is exceedingly patient and understanding as he slowly woos Danny, always checking in with him, being careful not to crowd or push him, protecting him and offering safety and security, waiting for Danny to learn to trust and come to him in his own time. I got a bit frustrated with Danny, he was too much in his head most of the time, but trauma doesn’t always accept logic or even consider common sense reactions, and he eventually did allow himself to accept Knox as he was, not as his ex. When Danny was threatened, he knew Knox would move Heaven and earth to find and protect him, and it gave him the confidence to fight back, leading to a mating bond for both and a found family that accepted him without reservations for Knox. Strong characters, plenty of action in and out of the bedroom, wolf and bear shifters, stolen omegas, and a well-deserved HEA for an interesting read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A.J. Cane has invented an interesting town called Grizzly Ridge that is usually a great place to live, but Cane obviously writes about the more interesting things that are happening! A rogue wolf pack and an A-hole Alpha of the type that unfortunately seem to be everywhere are causing problems in and around Grizzly Ridge. Each book focuses more on one fated mate couple but the overall story follows through the series so it’s best if you read them in order. I am often frustrated reading slow burn stories, but Cane has given Knox a really good reason for going slow with Danny and that makes all the difference for me. Knox was so sweet to Danny, but I was very amused that no matter how much he tried he couldn’t stop being an Alpha wolf wanting to protect his Omega. I giggled at the scenes of him carefully sneaking around trying to keep his Omega safe while still trying to make Danny feel independent. It so encapsulates what an Alpha of any species is supposed to be like. A marvelous addition to this fun furry series.
I loved this book even more than the first on. Hurt/comfort is one of my favorite tropes, and this book definitely has it. Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Danny and Knox. Danny was in a horrible abusive relationship and now was afraid of alphas and considered himself broken. When he scented his fated mate in his clan's newest clan member, he turned and ran. Knox had taken risks to be there where his fated mate was. He dreamed of an omega to call his own and always want him, but when Danny ran from him, he feared he might be rejected. Knox promised Danny's brother he would be patient with him, and he kept to that promise.
Danny didn't believe Knox would want a broken, weak omega like him. Knox's own father had tried to kill him. If his own father hadn't wanted him, why would a beautiful omega like Danny? He was such a good guy and I was sad he wasn't quite welcomed/trusted by the clan members. Danny's abusive ex Rex still haunting his shadows added suspense and tension. I was hooked to the story. A beautiful read. 5 stars.
This was an engaging read, a romance with suspense elements, fated mates, and hurt-comfort. After bear shifter Danny rejects Knox, his fated mate--because of his most recent traumatic encounter with his ex--the wolf shifter has to slowly and patiently court the reluctant bear, despite his wolf's increasing need to claim its mate. All this is happening while Knox struggles to overcome the clan's suspicions about him, given his history. He does that by helping Danny's brothers, who are in law enforcement and Search and Rescue, find and eliminate a band of rogue wolves kidnapping omegas, and by protecting Danny from his ex. It's a sweet, slow-paced love story, despite both shifters recognizing who the other is at first scent. The passion between them grows in believable ways, culminating in a mating that is built on trust and love as well as lust. And although Danny's continued reluctance and hesitation get to be a bit much after a while, I appreciate the writer's efforts to keep their relationship credible.
I love me some good hurt comfort stories, this combined with shifters, protective packs, fated mates, and scents, it’s just my favorite! And when above all this it’s also flawlessly written, I’d say it’s a winner.
Danny thankfully got rid of Rex his abusive alpha boyfriend, his father, the pack alpha, expelled Rex from the pack grounds.
Danny is shocked when a new pack member is introduced, it is his fated mate, oh no, that won’t work. Danny run.
Knox was confused when he was rejected by his fated mate. Not that rejection was an unknown feeling for him.
So far some facts. The story is awesomely built, and slowly, very slowly the trust between them is getting more solid ground. We get to know them better, both have been through a lot of hurt.
There’s also a nasty side story coming from the ex!
This story was right up my lane, I loved it very much!
Wolf alpha x bear omega. We finally get the second book and with it the story of Knox and Danny. Reading the first book introduced those two characters and made you curious how their story continues. I really loved those two together and how patiently Knox waits for Danny who has been traumatised my an abusive past relationship. Reading their story you follow their development and how they handle the past and their future~ (and ofc HEA! ) And somehow I immediately had a soft spot for Knox
If you love MM shifter stories / omegaverse then this book is for you. But I recommend starting with the first book! I am curious to see how the stories of other characters in Grizzly Ridge will continue~
I received an advanced reader copy for the second book and this is my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I loooooved the first book in this series and honestly wasn’t sure if AJ would be able to live up to it when it came to book two… but I’m very glad to say they did :) I would definitely classify this under romantic suspense, which is a genre in MM romance that I feel never quite lives up to its potential but AJ knocks it out of the park.
The romance is believable, the intrigue and mystery surrounding the suspense is immersive, and the world building is top notch. The romance for book three that was teased at the end already is giving me angst, and I can only hope that the release date isn’t too far in the future so I can find out how it plays out.
AJ Cane is quite possibly my favourite debut author this year. Well done *applause*
Thank you GRR for the ARC. This review was left voluntarily.