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Rune Wolf #2
Schattenverpaart: Eine romantische Werwolf-Urban-Fantasy (Runenwolf 2)
What's a werewolf to do when tattoos dole out dating advice?
Once, I blindly followed the orders of a shadowy Council. No more. These days I'm on a quest with my estranged sister to free kidnapped shifter children before they're taught to disdain their own kind.
Trouble is, the frozen tattoos from my broken mate bond keep interfering, trying to once again intertwine my fate with that of the alpha protector Orion. Worse, a matching mark has appeared on my sister, irrationally linking her to a dangerously charming stranger we rescued along the way.
As manipulative Old Magic threatens to override our free will, can we save the experimented-upon youngsters? Or will compulsions from our mystical tattoos draw us back into the clutches of enemies we worked so hard to leave behind?
The second book in the swashbuckling, slow-burn Rune Wolf series is full of fated mates refusing to be corralled by ancient prophecies, a fish out of water discovering found family, and lots and lots of werewolves.
Once, I blindly followed the orders of a shadowy Council. No more. These days I'm on a quest with my estranged sister to free kidnapped shifter children before they're taught to disdain their own kind.
Trouble is, the frozen tattoos from my broken mate bond keep interfering, trying to once again intertwine my fate with that of the alpha protector Orion. Worse, a matching mark has appeared on my sister, irrationally linking her to a dangerously charming stranger we rescued along the way.
As manipulative Old Magic threatens to override our free will, can we save the experimented-upon youngsters? Or will compulsions from our mystical tattoos draw us back into the clutches of enemies we worked so hard to leave behind?
The second book in the swashbuckling, slow-burn Rune Wolf series is full of fated mates refusing to be corralled by ancient prophecies, a fish out of water discovering found family, and lots and lots of werewolves.
274 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 17, 2024
50 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
Aimee Easterling
95 books620 followersAimee Easterling is a USA Today Bestselling author writing on the boundary between urban fantasy and paranormal romance. She specializes in spunky shifters and invites you to dive into her werewolf world in the Wolf Rampant trilogy, the spinoff Bloodling serial, and her new Alpha Underground series.
Studying biology and working as a naturalist have both informed Aimee's writing, but she's quite willing to let reality slide in favor of a good story. When not writing, she loves to read and always keeps books by Robin McKinley, Patricia Briggs, and Elizabeth Peters on her shelf. You can learn more at www.aimeeeasterling.com.
Studying biology and working as a naturalist have both informed Aimee's writing, but she's quite willing to let reality slide in favor of a good story. When not writing, she loves to read and always keeps books by Robin McKinley, Patricia Briggs, and Elizabeth Peters on her shelf. You can learn more at www.aimeeeasterling.com.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
December 15, 2024
So much potential for a good read. Falls short in many ways.
December 11, 2024
I like Orion and some of the secondary characters, but it bothered me that plot overruled character when it really mattered. And I didn't like being told that Elspeth was this great spy-warrior woman, but never acted like it. She seemed like a moody teenager to me, and I honestly didn't really want others to sacrifice for her (and didn't understand why they would). It was a struggle to finish when I spent the book annoyed with the character. But, I did finish it, so I guess that's something.
November 29, 2024
Enjoyable
Not a bad read. Just short.
Seems like very little movement in terms of character relationships and plot progression
The slow burn romance feels non existent
It's written well however and I did enjoy the magic system created.
Not a bad read. Just short.
Seems like very little movement in terms of character relationships and plot progression
The slow burn romance feels non existent
It's written well however and I did enjoy the magic system created.
July 22, 2024
I enjoyed the first book. But this one? Not so much. I'm 30% in and Elspeth continually thinks about how wonderful, safe, etc being near Orion is but doesn't want to remate with him cause she doesn't want the mark to decide for her. Then there's all the lamenting about the tattoos disappearing. Omg, why isn't she reforming the bond?????
I just can't read anymore which is unfortunate since I'd like to know what happens, and I did try to push through, but no!
I just can't read anymore which is unfortunate since I'd like to know what happens, and I did try to push through, but no!
June 27, 2024
This is the second novel in Aimee Easterling’s Rune Wolf series of contemporary romantic fantasy. Although this story could be enjoyed on its own, I recommend reading the entire series in order, preferably starting with the adorable prequel short story, “Paws & Claus.”
Elspeth and Orion are trying to find and rescue werewolf children kidnapped by the Council while trying to decipher an ancient prophecy and coping with the magical effects of their slowly dissolving yet still manipulative matebrand. Nothing goes according to plan, and once again, poor Elspeth isn’t sure what to believe or who to trust.
This is a suspenseful story filled with unexpected twists and turns and plenty of action, intrigue, and magic. I like Elspeth and adore Orion, as well as many of the secondary characters. Family (whether by birth or chosen) is an important theme here, and I love how it was explored.
The audiobook is a fun way to experience this story. The production is good, and I enjoyed Heather Daniel’s narration. Her pacing is pretty good, her pronunciation is clear, and she creates voices that suit the characters and express appropriate emotions.
Recommended for those who enjoy shifter stories and contemporary romantic fantasies with interesting magic systems.
I received an ARC of this ebook and an advanced listening copy of the audiobook from the author. I volunteered to provide an honest review.
Elspeth and Orion are trying to find and rescue werewolf children kidnapped by the Council while trying to decipher an ancient prophecy and coping with the magical effects of their slowly dissolving yet still manipulative matebrand. Nothing goes according to plan, and once again, poor Elspeth isn’t sure what to believe or who to trust.
This is a suspenseful story filled with unexpected twists and turns and plenty of action, intrigue, and magic. I like Elspeth and adore Orion, as well as many of the secondary characters. Family (whether by birth or chosen) is an important theme here, and I love how it was explored.
The audiobook is a fun way to experience this story. The production is good, and I enjoyed Heather Daniel’s narration. Her pacing is pretty good, her pronunciation is clear, and she creates voices that suit the characters and express appropriate emotions.
Recommended for those who enjoy shifter stories and contemporary romantic fantasies with interesting magic systems.
I received an ARC of this ebook and an advanced listening copy of the audiobook from the author. I volunteered to provide an honest review.
June 18, 2024
Shadowmated is the second book in the Rune Wolf series and it’s quite an adventure! Elspeth and Orion are still fighting their matebrand, wanting to take their time to decide if they want to be mates without the influence of the bond. They’re also working with Elspeth’s sister to free kidnapped shifter children from the Council; and there’s a prophesy hinting at a lost sibling. With everything going on, it’s hard to see how they can be successful their efforts.
I really like Elspeth, but I think I might like Orion even more, he’s a good, strong alpha, yet infinitely patient and understanding with Elspeth. I also like their running joke of characterizing their situation with romance tropes. I don’t specifically remember that in the first book, but I hope it continues in the next one. I liked getting to see more of Celeste and of the rest of the pack mates. This book is very well written, with even the desert itself having a personality of its own. Without giving anything away, I was happy with how things were at the end of this book and excited to see what happens next!
I really like Elspeth, but I think I might like Orion even more, he’s a good, strong alpha, yet infinitely patient and understanding with Elspeth. I also like their running joke of characterizing their situation with romance tropes. I don’t specifically remember that in the first book, but I hope it continues in the next one. I liked getting to see more of Celeste and of the rest of the pack mates. This book is very well written, with even the desert itself having a personality of its own. Without giving anything away, I was happy with how things were at the end of this book and excited to see what happens next!
June 11, 2024
Shadowmated, the second installment in Aimee Easterling's Rune Wolf series, starts off with a bang and keeps on rolling. The action and adventure is non-stop from beginning to end, and the twists and turns are so well done that your head will keep spinning the whole way through. The storyline is fast-paced and well written, with multi-layered plots that will definitely keep your interest. The characters are well developed and engaging. While on their main quest, Elspeth and Orion continue to struggle with the issue of their matebrand. They refuse to give into the matebrand, unwillinging to trust the magic not to influence their true feelings for one another. Will their stubbornness leave them vulnerable and potentially get them killed, or at least fail at their primary objective? Are they destined to remain apart despite the obvious love they have for one another? Overall, Shadowmated is an excellent read. It does a fantastic job showcasing the author's unique take on the standard werewolf lore, which is always refreshing. Highly recommend!
October 17, 2024
In a world populated by werewolves, as well as humans trying to exploit them, Elspeth and her mate Orion are seeking to free some captives and stop some pretty heinous research. This installment of the Rune Wolf series chronicles their efforts. As a big fan of Ms. Easterling's work, I expected a certain standard of quality in her latest work. I wasn't disappointed. From the first chapter onward, it was loaded with fraught situations, tons of action, and creepy bad guys. But don't misunderstand me here: the quality of the writing itself was exceptional. The pacing of the plot was right on point. The development of each character virtually made them jump off the page. In other words, Ms. Easterling is a superb writer with a thorough understanding of her craft. I highly recommend this book, as well as any of this author's other writings.
July 23, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Shadowmated by Aimee Easterling is a fast-paced, action-packed paranormal adventure with plenty of shifter drama, magic, and romantic tension. It’s the kind of book you can devour in one or two sittings—and sometimes that’s exactly what you’re looking for.
The worldbuilding is fun, the lore is layered, and the main character has a strong, independent streak that makes her easy to root for. The romance has its moments (with just the right amount of slow burn and bite), though some of the emotional beats felt a little rushed. The plot moves quickly, but occasionally at the expense of deeper development—especially with side characters or key twists.
Still, if you enjoy stories with wolves, witches, and a heroine who doesn’t back down, Shadowmated delivers an entertaining ride. It may not break new ground, but it definitely scratches that urban fantasy itch.
Shadowmated by Aimee Easterling is a fast-paced, action-packed paranormal adventure with plenty of shifter drama, magic, and romantic tension. It’s the kind of book you can devour in one or two sittings—and sometimes that’s exactly what you’re looking for.
The worldbuilding is fun, the lore is layered, and the main character has a strong, independent streak that makes her easy to root for. The romance has its moments (with just the right amount of slow burn and bite), though some of the emotional beats felt a little rushed. The plot moves quickly, but occasionally at the expense of deeper development—especially with side characters or key twists.
Still, if you enjoy stories with wolves, witches, and a heroine who doesn’t back down, Shadowmated delivers an entertaining ride. It may not break new ground, but it definitely scratches that urban fantasy itch.
May 28, 2024
As I’ve been reading this author for years, I know that when I read a book by her, I’ll be immediately taken away on an adventure. We come back in this second book to Elspeth and Orion working to free children from the Council, and along the way they are drawn into another conflict and make a new…friend. I really enjoyed this book, and I love Orion and Elspeth. She made me a little angry that she didn’t want the bond, but she’s mostly forgiven after this book. Wonderfully well-written, action-packed paranormal romance sure to please this genre’s fans. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
January 8, 2025
Okay... I'm trying, really trying. But I like strong central female chatacters and Elspeth is just pathetic. I liked all the other characters but detest this complete dolt of an an incompetent supposedly bad ass, supposedly well trained since birth female that has rot for brains. She's incapable of doing anything remotely admirable or redeeming. I actually started rooting for the evil characters to end her so we could focus on her sisters. Utter frustration. Others talk about redeeming qualities of author in this review; however, other books and series- absolutely, but she wrote this character and destroys the reader in tandem.
March 25, 2025
A lot of what happened was common sense but yet the FMC, a basically trained agent couldn’t solve a single thing 🤦🏽♀️ . Also, she kept treating her adult sister like a child (if I have to hear the name Celest one more time I will pull my hair out!) What is crazy is that her sister is also a trained agent 🫠
The romance was kinda nonexistent? I like the action but they really didn’t have any bonding time which made it difficult to feel a connection to their love declaration. It was slow burn but to what end if we didn’t really saw the love blossom other than the MMC letting her take all the decisions which got boring by this book. The only fight he put was refusing the bond 🫠 like… okay?
The romance was kinda nonexistent? I like the action but they really didn’t have any bonding time which made it difficult to feel a connection to their love declaration. It was slow burn but to what end if we didn’t really saw the love blossom other than the MMC letting her take all the decisions which got boring by this book. The only fight he put was refusing the bond 🫠 like… okay?
December 8, 2024
Audiobook: I enjoyed book two as much as the first one. My attention was riveted to the story by the almost non-stop action and the interactions of the various characters. I liked the character growth of Elspeth. I admired her determination and grit. I was amused by the idea that tattoos were giving dating advice. I was entertained by Heather Daniel's narration as her performance was delightful. I was given a copy of the audiobook through Spotify. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.
June 19, 2024
If there is magic to create bonds, then there's one to undo it. I can't help but be suspicious of everyone but Orion. There were many times I thought Elspeth herself matches the description of betrayer. My mental image of the ourpack desert magic is movie worthy. Can a talented fan make a gif of the scene please?
I hope this is not the end. I want more.
I received an advanced readers copy and am giving my honest review.
I hope this is not the end. I want more.
I received an advanced readers copy and am giving my honest review.
September 1, 2024
I was greatly hoping to watch the characters develop some but I was disappointed. The story in itself has potential but it's too drawn out in not the best ways. More than 2/3 of the book, the FMC going back and forth with her emotions/insecurities, and not wanting to accept the mate brand. But at the same time she wants the MMC and wants to use the power behind the brand, but on her own terms. She wants to control everything and it does not lead to pleasant reading. Not to mention being jealous of others finding and immediately accepting their mates. I almost DNF this so many times but pushed through.
I do not like it when the main characters are portrayed one way but represented completely different. She was always 2-3 steps behind, always forgetting something important, always wound up in a situation where she was rendered stuck. She was in situations and reacted in the most unrealistic ways. It was frustrating to listen to. It wasn't until like 5 chapters before the end that she finally came to grips and accepted her feelings after causing so much pain and some almost dying....I will not be reading any subsequent books. The narration is amazing and that's the best thing about this.
I received a complimentary copy of the audiobook from the author.
I do not like it when the main characters are portrayed one way but represented completely different. She was always 2-3 steps behind, always forgetting something important, always wound up in a situation where she was rendered stuck. She was in situations and reacted in the most unrealistic ways. It was frustrating to listen to. It wasn't until like 5 chapters before the end that she finally came to grips and accepted her feelings after causing so much pain and some almost dying....I will not be reading any subsequent books. The narration is amazing and that's the best thing about this.
I received a complimentary copy of the audiobook from the author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2024
6 Wows ~ To love or not to love is Elspeth’s choice to make.
The council is experimenting on shifters changing their DNA to what ever their goal is. No one knows. Elspeth and her sister Celeste discovered theirs children also who need help. Will Orion and Elspeth ever be mated? The story has so many obstacles that the shifters will have to overcome to get back to normal packs. Can’t wait to read book 3.
The council is experimenting on shifters changing their DNA to what ever their goal is. No one knows. Elspeth and her sister Celeste discovered theirs children also who need help. Will Orion and Elspeth ever be mated? The story has so many obstacles that the shifters will have to overcome to get back to normal packs. Can’t wait to read book 3.
July 24, 2025
Story: 4
Narrator: 4.25
Can the FMC be annoying? Yep. She definitely does not seem to as in control and bad ass as the first book. There's something to be said for the fact that she's dealing with her world being turned upside down. Am I annoyed that the MMC decided to say no? Also yes because he couldn't control himself anyways. The kids twist was good but sad. I'm looking forward to the next book.
Narrator: 4.25
Can the FMC be annoying? Yep. She definitely does not seem to as in control and bad ass as the first book. There's something to be said for the fact that she's dealing with her world being turned upside down. Am I annoyed that the MMC decided to say no? Also yes because he couldn't control himself anyways. The kids twist was good but sad. I'm looking forward to the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2025
This is n action-packed adventure. It is a clean romance that deals with betrayal and family bonds. There are so many parts that could have been turned into an amazing epic story given more depth, but the author just kept going past those scenes on to others. A shame. The book was good, but had potential for greatness.
June 23, 2024
more twists and great storytelling
Nice that this is about adults not teenagers. The challenges are different from usual werewolf tales
Enjoyable escape and looking forward to the next book
Nice that this is about adults not teenagers. The challenges are different from usual werewolf tales
Enjoyable escape and looking forward to the next book
February 17, 2025
A simple and cute werewolf story with a sweet romance and a prophecy! I loved not knowing who the “sister” truly was with so many possibilities, how the magic of the brand changed and developed, and all the lies within the truths. Loved it!
June 21, 2024
Aimee writes great books - werewolves, magic tattoos, slow romance. There's always strength and ability together.
ARC from author
ARC from author
December 18, 2024
Love, love, love! He will always do what’s best for her!
Finding family, chosen family! So much love
Finding family, chosen family! So much love
July 7, 2025
The plot is confusing. The characters’ motivations are confusing. The magic system makes no sense. The writing doesn’t make up for it.
June 16, 2025
Enjoyed the story.
June 20, 2024
Aimee's books always make my hands sweat and my heart beat faster as she gets her heroines into messes you are sure they aren't going to get out of. This book is no different as Elspeth and Orien continue to circle each other and Celeste is determined to find the other werewolf children that the Council has control over. While the outpack does its best to reform the broken matebond, Orien and Elspeth try to avoid even the slightest touch. A newly formed set of half glyphs, a death in the desert, a prophecy hints that their time is limited, fading matebrands, what does it all mean? El isn't sure what she should do, but she knows that time is running out. I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
July 1, 2024
WEREWOLVES, MAGIC TATOOS, AND EVEN MORE OF PRINCE!I've read just about every book in Aimee's catalogue, and I never get tired of them. Every book has a unique premise.
I think I remember Prince from "The Thirteenth Wolf" as a teenager before he showed up in Matebranded.
He's an interesting character that I'll bet we will see more of in book3, or later on.
This book breaks the tension with hilarity that centers around keeping teen aged boys and girls apart for magic reasons.
It's a quick page turning read that's got action, compassion, clean romance, and twists and turns. Lots of who-do-you-trust.
Start with book #1 for the best experience. Each book does a good job of ending at a satisfying point.
Can't wait for book #3.
Update: If you like audiobooks, Heather Daniel does a fine job bringing this book to life with the audiobook addition!👍👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻❣️
I think I remember Prince from "The Thirteenth Wolf" as a teenager before he showed up in Matebranded.
He's an interesting character that I'll bet we will see more of in book3, or later on.
This book breaks the tension with hilarity that centers around keeping teen aged boys and girls apart for magic reasons.
It's a quick page turning read that's got action, compassion, clean romance, and twists and turns. Lots of who-do-you-trust.
Start with book #1 for the best experience. Each book does a good job of ending at a satisfying point.
Can't wait for book #3.
Update: If you like audiobooks, Heather Daniel does a fine job bringing this book to life with the audiobook addition!👍👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻❣️
October 20, 2024
Old magic and new family.
Elspeth hadn’t been ready to be mated so Orion has broken the bond, but the tattoos that came with the bond have frozen, well mostly, in place yet still the magic tries to interfer with thier actions. Searching for Shifter children being experimented on by the Council takes an interesting turn when a lead takes them to a young shifter, and a mate brand appears on her sister who seem to be falling for the young man with a matching tattoo.
With Old Magic determined to manipulate them into reforming the mate bond, a prophecy warning of dire consequences, enemies using blood magic, and experimented on shifter children to be found, Elspeth and Orion are racing against time to save their loved ones and their bond. Wonderfully well written, compelling, and unique characters, this is a must-read book. I highly recommend this book to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Elspeth hadn’t been ready to be mated so Orion has broken the bond, but the tattoos that came with the bond have frozen, well mostly, in place yet still the magic tries to interfer with thier actions. Searching for Shifter children being experimented on by the Council takes an interesting turn when a lead takes them to a young shifter, and a mate brand appears on her sister who seem to be falling for the young man with a matching tattoo.
With Old Magic determined to manipulate them into reforming the mate bond, a prophecy warning of dire consequences, enemies using blood magic, and experimented on shifter children to be found, Elspeth and Orion are racing against time to save their loved ones and their bond. Wonderfully well written, compelling, and unique characters, this is a must-read book. I highly recommend this book to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
February 11, 2025
Es geht spannend weiter um die Beziehung zwischen Elspeth und ihrem Partner Orion. Und ihrer Schwester.
Werden sie die Shifterkinder finden und retten können? Oder ist das alles nur Fake und eine Falle des Rates?
Außerdem ist da immer die Frage im Nacken : Wer ist Freund oder Feind.
Eine Geschichte um Familienbande, Freundschaft, Vertrauen und Selbstfindung.
Ein turbulenter Shifterroman der einen genauso zweifeln lässt wie die Protagonisten über gut und böse.
Ich bin sehr gespannt wie der dritte Teil weitergeht.
Werden sie die Shifterkinder finden und retten können? Oder ist das alles nur Fake und eine Falle des Rates?
Außerdem ist da immer die Frage im Nacken : Wer ist Freund oder Feind.
Eine Geschichte um Familienbande, Freundschaft, Vertrauen und Selbstfindung.
Ein turbulenter Shifterroman der einen genauso zweifeln lässt wie die Protagonisten über gut und böse.
Ich bin sehr gespannt wie der dritte Teil weitergeht.
December 27, 2024
Im zweiten Teil geht es rasant und spannend weiter. Immer wieder dreht es sich auch um (Familien-)Zugehörigkeit und was wirklich wichtig ist im Miteinander.
Elsbeth und Orion kämpfen nach wie vor um ihre Bindung und auch Celeste trifft ihre Entscheidungen. Können sie es schaffen, gegen den Rat und seine Machenschaften zu bestehen?
Ein Wehrmutstropfen stellt leider immer noch die Übersetzung dar. Dennoch freue ich mich auf den dritten Band.
Elsbeth und Orion kämpfen nach wie vor um ihre Bindung und auch Celeste trifft ihre Entscheidungen. Können sie es schaffen, gegen den Rat und seine Machenschaften zu bestehen?
Ein Wehrmutstropfen stellt leider immer noch die Übersetzung dar. Dennoch freue ich mich auf den dritten Band.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews