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Grizzly Rim #1
Launch the Hunt
New in 2019: Expanded Novel Edition!
Eagle shifter John Tillman can almost taste freedom.
He never expected to raise his kid sister. She’s worth the sacrifices he’s made—education, career, lovers—but the empty nest is calling his name.
To save her college fund, John’s taking every run his plane can handle and doing his best to keep his shifting under the radar.
Then his latest job walks into the bar with a strange gait and velvety Southern drawl.
Army veteran Logan Maddox has given a lot for freedom.
He’s no hero, just a guy trying to adapt to new parameters. If he isn’t fully living the gay identity he’s finally accepted…well, it’s not top priority.
After three tours, two new legs, and one long-overdue divorce, Logan has zeroed in on a single objective: a trip into Alaska’s back country, no distractions.
But fate has its own tactics, and the only pilot available to guide him is a tall, surly drink of water who's gonna challenge every good intention Logan’s got.
LAUNCH THE HUNT is the 1st standalone novel in the GRIZZLY RIM m/m shifter series. Strap in for late-night tent shenanigans, chilly skinny-dipping, slow dancing with consequences, and a couple of rules just begging to be broken.
GRIZZLY RIM Series
The men of Grizzly Rim are a lot of things. Always human isn’t one of them.
1. LAUNCH THE HUNT
2. SURRENDER THE CHASE
3. EMBRACE THE BEAST
Originally published in 2015 & 2016 as novellas, the GRIZZLY RIM novel editions have been extensively revised and expanded for republication in 2019.
Eagle shifter John Tillman can almost taste freedom.
He never expected to raise his kid sister. She’s worth the sacrifices he’s made—education, career, lovers—but the empty nest is calling his name.
To save her college fund, John’s taking every run his plane can handle and doing his best to keep his shifting under the radar.
Then his latest job walks into the bar with a strange gait and velvety Southern drawl.
Army veteran Logan Maddox has given a lot for freedom.
He’s no hero, just a guy trying to adapt to new parameters. If he isn’t fully living the gay identity he’s finally accepted…well, it’s not top priority.
After three tours, two new legs, and one long-overdue divorce, Logan has zeroed in on a single objective: a trip into Alaska’s back country, no distractions.
But fate has its own tactics, and the only pilot available to guide him is a tall, surly drink of water who's gonna challenge every good intention Logan’s got.
LAUNCH THE HUNT is the 1st standalone novel in the GRIZZLY RIM m/m shifter series. Strap in for late-night tent shenanigans, chilly skinny-dipping, slow dancing with consequences, and a couple of rules just begging to be broken.
GRIZZLY RIM Series
The men of Grizzly Rim are a lot of things. Always human isn’t one of them.
1. LAUNCH THE HUNT
2. SURRENDER THE CHASE
3. EMBRACE THE BEAST
Originally published in 2015 & 2016 as novellas, the GRIZZLY RIM novel editions have been extensively revised and expanded for republication in 2019.
230 pages, Paperback
First published June 12, 2015
479 people are currently reading
578 people want to read
About the author
Mia West
49 books189 followersEpic romance, two heroes at a time! My story universe features warriors and blacksmiths, rescue swimmers and hockey players, treasure hunters and time travelers, and quite a few shifters. My favorite kind of hero: a grumpy f*cker who’ll do anything for the man he loves.
Read my entire universe free on AO3!
Novel-length ebooks are free on wide vendors.
Happy reading :)
~ Mia
Read my entire universe free on AO3!
Novel-length ebooks are free on wide vendors.
Happy reading :)
~ Mia
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
July 26, 2018
Life's to short to waste on books with so little to them.
At 71% I don't care about the characters or feel I know them; or more precisely don't feel that there is anything to them to know.
It starts with a confusing bundle of people/animals very clearly an intro to a series.
Logan was at some point a science teacher, he had a kid young and spent most of his time deployed with the army. There's no time-scale or order of events to give that meaning. He's a double amputee but how recently no idea; why he'd think a poorly organised (turn up at a random Alaskan bar and ask for a pilot and guide (though do wonder how they got to this distant location without a pilot...) wilderness camping is a good idea in those circumstances I don't know.
And as an exercise in bonding with his sullen son it might help if he spent some time talking to the boy. A short discussion about which of them is/isn't getting any, then pack him off home out the way doesn't do it.
And John. John is a shifter. You'd think there'd be some secrecy to that not now you know about me so I'll tell you about everyone else.
The teenagers are weirdly inconsistent, behaving in ways contrary to the thin personalities that have been sketched for them, their pranks bizarre.
Characters are generally poorly developed and have no depth, story progression felt off with zero sparks between them I wasn't buying their need to get together again let alone whatever would come next. Got no interest in reading on.
At 71% I don't care about the characters or feel I know them; or more precisely don't feel that there is anything to them to know.
It starts with a confusing bundle of people/animals very clearly an intro to a series.
Logan was at some point a science teacher, he had a kid young and spent most of his time deployed with the army. There's no time-scale or order of events to give that meaning. He's a double amputee but how recently no idea; why he'd think a poorly organised (turn up at a random Alaskan bar and ask for a pilot and guide (though do wonder how they got to this distant location without a pilot...) wilderness camping is a good idea in those circumstances I don't know.
And as an exercise in bonding with his sullen son it might help if he spent some time talking to the boy. A short discussion about which of them is/isn't getting any, then pack him off home out the way doesn't do it.
And John. John is a shifter. You'd think there'd be some secrecy to that not now you know about me so I'll tell you about everyone else.
The teenagers are weirdly inconsistent, behaving in ways contrary to the thin personalities that have been sketched for them, their pranks bizarre.
Characters are generally poorly developed and have no depth, story progression felt off with zero sparks between them I wasn't buying their need to get together again let alone whatever would come next. Got no interest in reading on.
dnf
October 25, 2018DNF at 57%
Since I ended up explaining in the comments why I DNFed, I might as well copy it here:
I liked the idea behind the story and the shifter aspect was one of the best thing about it, but I didn't feel the connection between the MCs and the author made some plot choices that didn't make any sense. Completely out-of-character actions that seemed to happen for the only reason of moving the plot in the direction the author wanted and the consequences weren't believable in the least.
You could say that characterization and plot aren't this story's strong points, the good parts were overshadowed by the bad ones and I simply didn't feel like wasting more time on a book I wasn't enjoying.
Since I ended up explaining in the comments why I DNFed, I might as well copy it here:
I liked the idea behind the story and the shifter aspect was one of the best thing about it, but I didn't feel the connection between the MCs and the author made some plot choices that didn't make any sense. Completely out-of-character actions that seemed to happen for the only reason of moving the plot in the direction the author wanted and the consequences weren't believable in the least.
You could say that characterization and plot aren't this story's strong points, the good parts were overshadowed by the bad ones and I simply didn't feel like wasting more time on a book I wasn't enjoying.
July 26, 2018
Hummmmmmm...
***1.5 stars***
Well, it must be me. I just felt the flow the story was off. That and the development between characters was lacking making their chemistry non-existent. I felt that the author made things happen, with no real reason than to just cause conflict in the storyline; i.e. Cora taking the plane.
Oh, the .5 stars is due to the ending with Dmitri.
***1.5 stars***
Well, it must be me. I just felt the flow the story was off. That and the development between characters was lacking making their chemistry non-existent. I felt that the author made things happen, with no real reason than to just cause conflict in the storyline; i.e. Cora taking the plane.
Oh, the .5 stars is due to the ending with Dmitri.
August 2, 2018
Well, I am the last one to judge an original take on Shifters and let me tell you, this was original.
I don't have any crazy love hate with this one. It was an ok story, where not too much happened, with a pretty good set up for more books, come on, I want the otter story for real, and a sweet HEA.
So, yeah, I can't really complain but I'd have loved a little more something. Knocking down doors is something so hopefully the next book brings a little more umph, yeah?
Not an exciting or horrible way to spend an hour or two. I'll dig into the next one.
I don't have any crazy love hate with this one. It was an ok story, where not too much happened, with a pretty good set up for more books, come on, I want the otter story for real, and a sweet HEA.
So, yeah, I can't really complain but I'd have loved a little more something. Knocking down doors is something so hopefully the next book brings a little more umph, yeah?
Not an exciting or horrible way to spend an hour or two. I'll dig into the next one.
February 4, 2021
It was ok
I liked it ok . It got better as the book progressed. I don’t think I want to read a sequel.
I liked it ok . It got better as the book progressed. I don’t think I want to read a sequel.
probably-not-but-freebie
July 23, 2018Freebie at amazon.com right now: https://www.amazon.com/Launch-Hunt-Gr...
March 12, 2017
3.75 stars
September 6, 2019
He never expected to raise his kid sister, but she’s worth the sacrifices that John Tillman has made but the empty nest is calling his name. He’s no hero, just a guy trying to adapt to new parameters and if Logan Maddox isn’t fully the gay identity he’s finally accepted…well, it’s not top priority. John’s trying to save for his sister’s college fund and doing his best to keep his shifting under the radar. Logan is taking a trip into Alaska’s Back country and trying to connect with his son. Fate has its own objective and is going to challenge every good intention.
This male / male romance is a sweet and emotionally gripping tale with lots of red hot and steamy passion. The characters are strong, compelling and easily draw readers into their story and the romance between John and Logan is delightful as the two discover their mutual sizzling chemistry and magnetic attraction while trying to hide it from the two young ones accompanying them on the trip. The emotions that flow from the pages of this story are gripping and capture readers’ hearts as the two men try to mesh their realities with what they want.
The world the author has created has shifters with some unique differences than most and these differences makes living in Alaska a bit touchy as it causes some heated problems for their lives. The story is steady paced and full of suspense and excitement as well as the romance as John’s secret is revealed and lives get in the way, keeping the happily ever after of this delightfully charming romance in question until the very end.
This male / male romance is a sweet and emotionally gripping tale with lots of red hot and steamy passion. The characters are strong, compelling and easily draw readers into their story and the romance between John and Logan is delightful as the two discover their mutual sizzling chemistry and magnetic attraction while trying to hide it from the two young ones accompanying them on the trip. The emotions that flow from the pages of this story are gripping and capture readers’ hearts as the two men try to mesh their realities with what they want.
The world the author has created has shifters with some unique differences than most and these differences makes living in Alaska a bit touchy as it causes some heated problems for their lives. The story is steady paced and full of suspense and excitement as well as the romance as John’s secret is revealed and lives get in the way, keeping the happily ever after of this delightfully charming romance in question until the very end.
November 6, 2018
3.5 Stars
I wanted to like this one more...but for some reason I didn't connect with the characters or the story. I really wanted more of the experience of flying than just the once - especially having that kind of mobility back (since he was a double amputee using prothestics to walk) - from Logan. No, he didn't really let his disability slow him down much, and seemed really adjusted to his "stilts" (as he called them) but damn, I'm human with only the mechanical opportunity to fly and every time I even have THAT chance it's like I can't stop gushing about it...were it possible to suddenly shift and do that? OMFG I'd never shut up. I'd want to do it all the time.
But points for having the ability to shift transmitted to humans via semen. I'm not sure I've read that as a plot point before.
Also, uh, outing all your fellow shifters like that is a bit of a dick move; I think that should be their decision to let this outsider know there are more in the town than just you, not yours. (I didn't see a conversation - and none was mentioned - where the guys gave each other carte blanche to discuss it with anyone NOT already in the know...that's what makes me upset.)
Of course, that sneak peek for the next book has me intrigued, so I will definitely check out that installment. Plus, it's set in Alaska...not enough MM Romance books set there.
I wanted to like this one more...but for some reason I didn't connect with the characters or the story. I really wanted more of the experience of flying than just the once - especially having that kind of mobility back (since he was a double amputee using prothestics to walk) - from Logan. No, he didn't really let his disability slow him down much, and seemed really adjusted to his "stilts" (as he called them) but damn, I'm human with only the mechanical opportunity to fly and every time I even have THAT chance it's like I can't stop gushing about it...were it possible to suddenly shift and do that? OMFG I'd never shut up. I'd want to do it all the time.
But points for having the ability to shift transmitted to humans via semen. I'm not sure I've read that as a plot point before.
Also, uh, outing all your fellow shifters like that is a bit of a dick move; I think that should be their decision to let this outsider know there are more in the town than just you, not yours. (I didn't see a conversation - and none was mentioned - where the guys gave each other carte blanche to discuss it with anyone NOT already in the know...that's what makes me upset.)
Of course, that sneak peek for the next book has me intrigued, so I will definitely check out that installment. Plus, it's set in Alaska...not enough MM Romance books set there.
July 15, 2020
This was just an okay shifter story. I was excited about an eagle shifter but that didn't play out in a really big way but the whole semen turning you into a shifter was different.
March 5, 2025
Cute shifter romance, but nothing special.
November 7, 2020
New to me author. This is a mm shifter story set in Alaska. Main characters are John an eagle shifter / pilot and Logan a returned vet who has lost his lower legs. Their story starts with a camping trip in the wilderness, there is miss communications but the story ends with a HEA.
April 24, 2016
Launch the Hunt was given to me through the Goodreads Don’t Buy My Love program for an honest review. This book is the first in a series and is told in third person through the eyes of John Tillman and Logan Maddox.
April 2, 2016
This sexy m/m shifter novella is the story of John and Logan. John's quite happy living up in Alaska as a bush pilot, taking care of his younger sister and freely able to shift to eagle form and enjoy the wilderness on his own terms. When Logan, an ex-soldier and amputee, and his teenage son show up looking for a guide for a hunting expedition, John's not about to say no. He needs the extra cash for his sister's college education - and his instant attraction to Logan doesn't hurt either. While a vacation affair might be something both men are up for, is it enough to embark on a future together?
I really enjoyed this story! The setting of Alaska was beautifully detailed and seemed a perfect choice for John and his group of shifter friends (of assorted animal varieties) that you meet at the beginning of the story, with the clear sense that the vast wilderness lets them be free to exist in human and animal form. Both John and Logan have interesting backstories, and I particularly liked how Logan's disability was realistically featured in all aspects of his journey into the Alaskan wilderness as well as how it impacted his sexual self. Logan is divorced and has just recently come out of the closet - how lucky for him to meet handsome, rugged, single John right off the hop! The sexual attraction between them is clear from when they first meet but they are very circumspect around the teenagers and when they do get some alone time together, their scenes are flirty and hot, with some deeper emotions quickly following suit.
I also liked how the shifting was described, the mechanics of the physical transformation and the mental changes as well. There was some interesting politics regarding a shifter's responsibilities in having sex with non shifters. It's up to Logan to decide what he wants for his future, but it becomes pretty clear that if John is willing, he'll be all in. The story is told from the points of view of both men, and with that we also get a good glimpse into their emotional states and their strong but sure feelings for each other. There was a very satisfactory happy ending, and a glimpse at where the series is headed to next. 5 stars for a sexy and very entertaining read!
I really enjoyed this story! The setting of Alaska was beautifully detailed and seemed a perfect choice for John and his group of shifter friends (of assorted animal varieties) that you meet at the beginning of the story, with the clear sense that the vast wilderness lets them be free to exist in human and animal form. Both John and Logan have interesting backstories, and I particularly liked how Logan's disability was realistically featured in all aspects of his journey into the Alaskan wilderness as well as how it impacted his sexual self. Logan is divorced and has just recently come out of the closet - how lucky for him to meet handsome, rugged, single John right off the hop! The sexual attraction between them is clear from when they first meet but they are very circumspect around the teenagers and when they do get some alone time together, their scenes are flirty and hot, with some deeper emotions quickly following suit.
I also liked how the shifting was described, the mechanics of the physical transformation and the mental changes as well. There was some interesting politics regarding a shifter's responsibilities in having sex with non shifters. It's up to Logan to decide what he wants for his future, but it becomes pretty clear that if John is willing, he'll be all in. The story is told from the points of view of both men, and with that we also get a good glimpse into their emotional states and their strong but sure feelings for each other. There was a very satisfactory happy ending, and a glimpse at where the series is headed to next. 5 stars for a sexy and very entertaining read!
November 20, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the author via the DBML program in exchange for an honest review.
Launch the Hunt by Mia West was an interesting spin on shifter stories. Although John & Logan were attracted to each other, it wasn’t an OMG MATE scenario, which I liked. Logan lost parts of his legs while serving in the military, but he didn’t let that stop him from taking his son on a trip to the Alaskan wilderness to re-connect. John is a pilot who serves as a guide for Logan & his son, and takes his sister who he is raising along for the trip also. The teenagers were a pretty big negative for me, there were a couple scenes with the teens who behaved stupidly that I think were unnecessary and detracted from the story. I also thought the fact that The begging and ending were a little rushed, a lot of characters were introduced initially and the story ended abruptly but I did enjoy the story enough that I will read the second book.
Launch the Hunt by Mia West was an interesting spin on shifter stories. Although John & Logan were attracted to each other, it wasn’t an OMG MATE scenario, which I liked. Logan lost parts of his legs while serving in the military, but he didn’t let that stop him from taking his son on a trip to the Alaskan wilderness to re-connect. John is a pilot who serves as a guide for Logan & his son, and takes his sister who he is raising along for the trip also. The teenagers were a pretty big negative for me, there were a couple scenes with the teens who behaved stupidly that I think were unnecessary and detracted from the story. I also thought the fact that The begging and ending were a little rushed, a lot of characters were introduced initially and the story ended abruptly but I did enjoy the story enough that I will read the second book.
October 1, 2019
***Second Edition Review***
I was lucky enough to get an ARC of the 2nd edition of this book. It’s been a while since I read the first edition, so I’m not entirely sure about all the differences, but I LOVED this version! The couple had great chemistry and the teenagers in the mix made things interesting. ;)
***First Edition Review***
I loved loved loved this book!! Logan and John were so sweet and sexy too. I read a lot of shifter books but this one was not the usual fare. It had a unique feel to it that I loved. I'm always thrilled to find a new author as well. Absolutely can't wait for the next book in this series.
I was lucky enough to get an ARC of the 2nd edition of this book. It’s been a while since I read the first edition, so I’m not entirely sure about all the differences, but I LOVED this version! The couple had great chemistry and the teenagers in the mix made things interesting. ;)
***First Edition Review***
I loved loved loved this book!! Logan and John were so sweet and sexy too. I read a lot of shifter books but this one was not the usual fare. It had a unique feel to it that I loved. I'm always thrilled to find a new author as well. Absolutely can't wait for the next book in this series.
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October 14, 2021DNF @ 47% -This is free today (10/14/21) on Amazon.
SO BORING! I liked the premise though. MM Romance. Since I didn’t get past 50%, I won’t rate it.
Eagle shifter takes ex military man into the Alaskan woods as a guide but they are each raising teens and they are there too. Ex military dude is just now embracing his sexuality but he’s a bit self conscious since he lost both his legs in battle. At least I assume it was in battle. He mentions an attack. Either way, I’m bored with the teenagers and there’s none of that inner shifter dialogue I love so much. Yawn 🥱
SO BORING! I liked the premise though. MM Romance. Since I didn’t get past 50%, I won’t rate it.
Eagle shifter takes ex military man into the Alaskan woods as a guide but they are each raising teens and they are there too. Ex military dude is just now embracing his sexuality but he’s a bit self conscious since he lost both his legs in battle. At least I assume it was in battle. He mentions an attack. Either way, I’m bored with the teenagers and there’s none of that inner shifter dialogue I love so much. Yawn 🥱
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July 23, 20187/23/18 Currently FREE via Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...
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September 7, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon & on iBooks today (9/21/2020)! 🎁
March 16, 2021
Good, Could Have Been Super
I'm going out on a limb here to say that this story could have been fabulous had the author not gotten cold feet. As it is, she has written an interesting story with engaging characters and good sex in a fairly unusual locale--rural Alaska.
In brief, a newly-divorced Army veteran (Logan) with not one but two prosthetic legs arrives in Anchorage with his teenaged son (Will) to hire a pilot and guide to take the two of them hunting and fishing in the wilderness.
In a bar run and patronized by shape-shifters, he hires John, an eagle shape-shifter. Together with John's non-shifter sister, Cora, they fly to a remote area, where Logan's newly-embraced homosexuality finds its outlet in slowly exploring a relationship with John. During a planned hike to go swimming in a small lake, Logan agrees to John's request not only to undress him, but specifically to remove his prosthetic legs and the underlying neoprene sleeves thar cover his unequal-length stumps. At this point John essentially makes the sweetest love to Logans stumps, by kissing them and massaging them tenderly. This gorgeously erotic scene ends with John carrying the now-legless Logan into the lake for some sexual horseplay.
From that emotional high point, the story becomes another fairly typical romance tale. There are the typical midunderstandings and father-son/brother-sister conflicts, with the original addition of an exciting episode of shape-shifting by John into eagle form. After a further consequential misunderstanding and separation, Logan makes his way back to John, is "turned" by the latter into an eagle-shifter himself
by having unprotected sex with John, and all ends happily.
Ms. West's writing is good and the descriptions of the Alaskan back-country are very fine.
And the cold feet? After the touching and exciting incident at the lake, the author essentially forgets about Logan's leg stumps as an element in his and John's sexual relations. Indeed, there is no mention of John ever touching them, let alone caressing them or even mentioning them, again.
What a wasted opportunity for further erotic exploration by the two men.
Still, this is a good book, worthy of being read by any who enjoy MM/Injured Hero romances. I just wish the author had been a tad more adventurous.
I'm going out on a limb here to say that this story could have been fabulous had the author not gotten cold feet. As it is, she has written an interesting story with engaging characters and good sex in a fairly unusual locale--rural Alaska.
In brief, a newly-divorced Army veteran (Logan) with not one but two prosthetic legs arrives in Anchorage with his teenaged son (Will) to hire a pilot and guide to take the two of them hunting and fishing in the wilderness.
In a bar run and patronized by shape-shifters, he hires John, an eagle shape-shifter. Together with John's non-shifter sister, Cora, they fly to a remote area, where Logan's newly-embraced homosexuality finds its outlet in slowly exploring a relationship with John. During a planned hike to go swimming in a small lake, Logan agrees to John's request not only to undress him, but specifically to remove his prosthetic legs and the underlying neoprene sleeves thar cover his unequal-length stumps. At this point John essentially makes the sweetest love to Logans stumps, by kissing them and massaging them tenderly. This gorgeously erotic scene ends with John carrying the now-legless Logan into the lake for some sexual horseplay.
From that emotional high point, the story becomes another fairly typical romance tale. There are the typical midunderstandings and father-son/brother-sister conflicts, with the original addition of an exciting episode of shape-shifting by John into eagle form. After a further consequential misunderstanding and separation, Logan makes his way back to John, is "turned" by the latter into an eagle-shifter himself
by having unprotected sex with John, and all ends happily.
Ms. West's writing is good and the descriptions of the Alaskan back-country are very fine.
And the cold feet? After the touching and exciting incident at the lake, the author essentially forgets about Logan's leg stumps as an element in his and John's sexual relations. Indeed, there is no mention of John ever touching them, let alone caressing them or even mentioning them, again.
What a wasted opportunity for further erotic exploration by the two men.
Still, this is a good book, worthy of being read by any who enjoy MM/Injured Hero romances. I just wish the author had been a tad more adventurous.
May 5, 2021
This was my first book by this author and I was happily surprised. The setting was fantastic, I love Alaska/wilderness locations when done well. The plot moved fast and I would’ve liked more about the MCs’ backgrounds and motivations. I found both John and Logan very likeable, and I loved how they both related to Cora and Will. The ending with the eagle/flying aspect was unexpected and very emotional. John’s shifter friends were only briefly introduced but it sounded like some of them have their own stories which I look forward to reading.
February 1, 2026
I went into this knowing it's ridiculous (I mean, read the premise) and yet, I loved it. The two main characters are hot and vulnerable. Their over-the-top flirting and lusting is enjoyable (loved the Southern accent kink). The two kids and their extreme behaviors/choices are a bit of an obvious plot device - just roll with it. If you accept it isn't a believable scenario (I mean, eagle shifter!), it's quite a fun read. And spicy. FYI, very spicy.
June 30, 2024
4.5 stars
Sweet story. A little Insta, but the adults weren't ridiculous about it, meaning no drooling and staring off blankly into space daydreaming. It touched on some serious topics, but did so respectfully. I loved Logan's confident eagerness, even though everything was so new.
Sweet story. A little Insta, but the adults weren't ridiculous about it, meaning no drooling and staring off blankly into space daydreaming. It touched on some serious topics, but did so respectfully. I loved Logan's confident eagerness, even though everything was so new.
July 12, 2024
Here’s a proper imaginary example of my reaction to this book:
Shapeshifting is a big deal in this one. In fact, almost everyone is a shapeshifter with a libido that's bigger than my future. But hot damn! I was not expecting this!
Honestly, I do think you should read this yourself. It’s short, fun and every so often spicy.
Shapeshifting is a big deal in this one. In fact, almost everyone is a shapeshifter with a libido that's bigger than my future. But hot damn! I was not expecting this!
Honestly, I do think you should read this yourself. It’s short, fun and every so often spicy.
December 14, 2018
A quick enjoyable read with little angst.
March 15, 2025
3.5 Stars
September 24, 2020
MAJOR Plot spoilers ahead. Read at your own risk.
I was contemplating staying away from shifter romance for a little while especially after yesterday’s read, which just didn’t do it for me, but this one intrigued me based on the synopsis. Plus it was another M/M romance, which I’m really into at the moment especially it being a M/M shifter romance. And I am so glad that I decided to read this because it was totally worth it in the end.
This story had so much going on, but in a totally good way. It really explored at lot of serious issue within the context of the romance between John and Logan, which made it really, really good I thought. It added just so much flavor by having those issues, which in turn deepened the relationship between John and Logan. It showed how truly special their relationship was with one another. I really, really liked that.
One of the interesting things about the story was the setup. Logan came to this bush Alaskan town with his son for wilderness trip in order to reconnect with him due the fact that he missed time in his son’s life due to fact him being deployed overseas. So, Logan needed a guide/pilot to take him and his son into the wilderness for this living off the land trip. That was where owl shifter John, came in, who was not only a local, but a pilot and amateur guide in his own right so Logan hired John to be their guide. Trouble was there was already simmering attractions between them the first time they met at the bar, which made things even more deliciously complicated.
Then also add to the fact that John had to bring his little sister who he had raised she was five into the little adventure right along with Logan and his son, which made it slightly even more complicated. She added quite a little bit a flavor into the story with her own sparkling personality, which made it more entertaining.
As they all begin this adventure together, lots of dynamics were in play between everyone, giving this story yet another layer to the story. They were all dealing with each other out in the middle of nowhere and living off the land. It was very remote. It was very isolated. It was very quiet. And they only had each other for company. The outside world was very, very far away. So, their whole world was just the camp sites that they were at.
As everyone was trying to deal with each other and work together, John and Logan were fighting this awesome chemistry they had with each other. At first it was a little wary between them, not knowing where they stood with each other, but once they both realized that they were very, very attracted to each other that was when the banter, innuendo, and just all up and up flirting with one another. It was adorable and fun, yet very sexy and hot. It was so good.
Before they truly got together though they had their own issues that they were dealing within themselves. For example, John was keeping the secret that he was in fact this owl shifter, which were never revealed to humans ever, which both Logan and his son were. So, John would have to sneak out so he could shift whenever he felt he needed to, which was a lot because apparently at the time shifters were feeling very randy and they could only deal with it one of two ways either shift or engage in some hot bedroom activities. It became even more complicated for John because of how severely attracted to Logan he was.
While in the case of Logan, he was dealing with multiple issues. The main one was him connecting with his son. The other one was the fact that maybe two years or so ago that he came out as gay, and for the first time was living his life as a guy man. He knew that he was gay, but denied it to himself for a very, very long time. He even married a woman and had a child with her in order to appear “normal.” So, he was just learning to date as a gay man. The last issue that Logan had to contend with was the fact that he was a double amputee and lost both of his legs while on deployment. Now, he had this prosthetics on both his legs in order to walk. He was a little self conscious about them as well as dealing with his issues of what he could and could do. He got very embarrassed especially when John and his daughter, Cora found out about his prosthetics when he got into John’s plan. So, Logan had quite a bit going on with him.
What was great was that once they did give into their attraction to one another, how quickly they became intimate with one another. It was really them getting to know each other as well as indulging in some great, sexy moments together. They really liked getting to know each other. The more they had the more they wanted. I think what was most beautiful was when they showed their insecurities and fears to each other especially in Logan’s case. Logan was a little nervous to show John his prosthetics for the first time, but John was very understanding and caring as he offered Logan his support during that vulnerable moment. That carried on to the moment at the lake where John helped Logan take off his prosthetics for the first time, and did it in a very sexy, yet powerful way. It just showed how John wanted the man and everything that had to due with said man. It just really brought them closer and become more involved with one another.
There was another great moment between them as well. Being the Logan had only recently come out as gay, and dating for the first time men, Logan didn’t have a lot of experience in physical, intimate relationships with men. It was all new for him. It was as scary as it was arousing for him as he embraced this side of himself. So, Logan never really was with a man in the bedroom before. Yes, he engaged in some kissing and touching with men, but nothing more than that. It was a little nerve racking for him, but he wanted to be with John in a completely physical intimate way. Though he was enjoying himself as they played together, letting enthusiasm being his guide, he did feel nervous when it came to their full blown first time. John was very sweet and caring as he vowed to make it the best for Logan by guiding him along the way. John was very patient and understanding as he allowed Logan to explore and enjoy him for the first time. John didn’t know how much it would blow his head off to allow Logan that freedom so it was a win for him too. But there was also some great consent in that scene too with John checking in with Logan the entire time. It wasn’t just that scene either. It was the final love scene as well, which showed how much he cared about Logan as a person. This was more than just a hookup.
Those sexy times scenes between them. Oh boy, they were so stinking steaming and sexy that it partially melted the words off the pages. I’m not just talking about the two full blown love scenes either. It was everything in between. The kissing scenes were scorching. The caressing and touching scenes were sizzling. And other activities were just as smoking hot as everything else. It showed how much chemistry these two truly had with each other, and I don’t think that it would have been that way with anyone else. They just had it from the moment that they met at the bar. It continued all the way through the story. Even though they had lots going on physically between them, there was a lot of things going on emotionally for them too. Their bond was just growing deeper and deeper. The closer that they got physically then the closer they got emotionally. I really liked seeing that progression. It made for a nice balance between the two aspect of their relationship, but it made for a complete relationship between the two fo them. That was done really well I thought.
I felt John being a shifter didn’t play a big roll in the story, yet it did. I felt it was such a natural part of who John was as a person that it was easy to forget that it was unusual. For Logan and Will, it was, and they did have questions, but it didn’t overwhelm the story where it felt like that part just took over the entire plot. It wasn’t like this thing hanging over their heads where it was preventing John and Logan from being together. It were other obstacles that were causing that divide and friction between them. So, it didn’t feel as big of a deal, yet added to the story to give it richness. I liked that.
One thing that seemed out of place for me had nothing to do with the romance, but a scene between the children that had me like “what?” Both Cora and Will, Logan’s son decided to pull a prank out their parental figures. First I didn’t understand why the pulled that particular prank because it wasn’t really funny at all. It was just weird and just asking for trouble on so many levels. I get their kids, but still they had to know how Logan and John would have reacted to that prank. It’s not the typical prank. It bordered on serious. Secondly, it just took the pacing off a bit I think when they did it because it just came out of nowhere. I wasn’t expecting it. I didn’t care for it.
Overall, the romance was really good I thought. There was a great balance between the emotional and physical side of John and Logan’s relationship. I did fear that it was going to be too much focused on the physical the way they were interacting in the beginning, but the changed very quickly as they started to get to know each other by having those intimate and as their relationship progressed more honest conversations with one another. I loved seeing those vulnerable moments that they had together especially in Logan’s case as he showed his insecurities over his prosthetics as well as the damaged that was left behind of his leg to John for the first time. I could feel Logan’s fear yet his strength as he wanted to show it to John, knowing that John was this great person that would never belittle him or mock Logan’s physical imperfections. In fact John was very careful and understanding as he took the prosthetic off of Logan’s leg for the first time. John was very loving and caring all while gently massaging his leg while he did so. It was just very cute and sweet, balancing out the hot and sexy side that these two engage in multiple upon multiple times within the story. Very steamy of read, but an intimate one as well. I liked how they both had to overcome things before they got their happily ever after in the end. It was very clear that they belonged together. It was just an enjoyable and sexy read that was so much better than yesterday’s read. It was step up, for sure, which was a win in my book.
I was contemplating staying away from shifter romance for a little while especially after yesterday’s read, which just didn’t do it for me, but this one intrigued me based on the synopsis. Plus it was another M/M romance, which I’m really into at the moment especially it being a M/M shifter romance. And I am so glad that I decided to read this because it was totally worth it in the end.
This story had so much going on, but in a totally good way. It really explored at lot of serious issue within the context of the romance between John and Logan, which made it really, really good I thought. It added just so much flavor by having those issues, which in turn deepened the relationship between John and Logan. It showed how truly special their relationship was with one another. I really, really liked that.
One of the interesting things about the story was the setup. Logan came to this bush Alaskan town with his son for wilderness trip in order to reconnect with him due the fact that he missed time in his son’s life due to fact him being deployed overseas. So, Logan needed a guide/pilot to take him and his son into the wilderness for this living off the land trip. That was where owl shifter John, came in, who was not only a local, but a pilot and amateur guide in his own right so Logan hired John to be their guide. Trouble was there was already simmering attractions between them the first time they met at the bar, which made things even more deliciously complicated.
Then also add to the fact that John had to bring his little sister who he had raised she was five into the little adventure right along with Logan and his son, which made it slightly even more complicated. She added quite a little bit a flavor into the story with her own sparkling personality, which made it more entertaining.
As they all begin this adventure together, lots of dynamics were in play between everyone, giving this story yet another layer to the story. They were all dealing with each other out in the middle of nowhere and living off the land. It was very remote. It was very isolated. It was very quiet. And they only had each other for company. The outside world was very, very far away. So, their whole world was just the camp sites that they were at.
As everyone was trying to deal with each other and work together, John and Logan were fighting this awesome chemistry they had with each other. At first it was a little wary between them, not knowing where they stood with each other, but once they both realized that they were very, very attracted to each other that was when the banter, innuendo, and just all up and up flirting with one another. It was adorable and fun, yet very sexy and hot. It was so good.
Before they truly got together though they had their own issues that they were dealing within themselves. For example, John was keeping the secret that he was in fact this owl shifter, which were never revealed to humans ever, which both Logan and his son were. So, John would have to sneak out so he could shift whenever he felt he needed to, which was a lot because apparently at the time shifters were feeling very randy and they could only deal with it one of two ways either shift or engage in some hot bedroom activities. It became even more complicated for John because of how severely attracted to Logan he was.
While in the case of Logan, he was dealing with multiple issues. The main one was him connecting with his son. The other one was the fact that maybe two years or so ago that he came out as gay, and for the first time was living his life as a guy man. He knew that he was gay, but denied it to himself for a very, very long time. He even married a woman and had a child with her in order to appear “normal.” So, he was just learning to date as a gay man. The last issue that Logan had to contend with was the fact that he was a double amputee and lost both of his legs while on deployment. Now, he had this prosthetics on both his legs in order to walk. He was a little self conscious about them as well as dealing with his issues of what he could and could do. He got very embarrassed especially when John and his daughter, Cora found out about his prosthetics when he got into John’s plan. So, Logan had quite a bit going on with him.
What was great was that once they did give into their attraction to one another, how quickly they became intimate with one another. It was really them getting to know each other as well as indulging in some great, sexy moments together. They really liked getting to know each other. The more they had the more they wanted. I think what was most beautiful was when they showed their insecurities and fears to each other especially in Logan’s case. Logan was a little nervous to show John his prosthetics for the first time, but John was very understanding and caring as he offered Logan his support during that vulnerable moment. That carried on to the moment at the lake where John helped Logan take off his prosthetics for the first time, and did it in a very sexy, yet powerful way. It just showed how John wanted the man and everything that had to due with said man. It just really brought them closer and become more involved with one another.
There was another great moment between them as well. Being the Logan had only recently come out as gay, and dating for the first time men, Logan didn’t have a lot of experience in physical, intimate relationships with men. It was all new for him. It was as scary as it was arousing for him as he embraced this side of himself. So, Logan never really was with a man in the bedroom before. Yes, he engaged in some kissing and touching with men, but nothing more than that. It was a little nerve racking for him, but he wanted to be with John in a completely physical intimate way. Though he was enjoying himself as they played together, letting enthusiasm being his guide, he did feel nervous when it came to their full blown first time. John was very sweet and caring as he vowed to make it the best for Logan by guiding him along the way. John was very patient and understanding as he allowed Logan to explore and enjoy him for the first time. John didn’t know how much it would blow his head off to allow Logan that freedom so it was a win for him too. But there was also some great consent in that scene too with John checking in with Logan the entire time. It wasn’t just that scene either. It was the final love scene as well, which showed how much he cared about Logan as a person. This was more than just a hookup.
Those sexy times scenes between them. Oh boy, they were so stinking steaming and sexy that it partially melted the words off the pages. I’m not just talking about the two full blown love scenes either. It was everything in between. The kissing scenes were scorching. The caressing and touching scenes were sizzling. And other activities were just as smoking hot as everything else. It showed how much chemistry these two truly had with each other, and I don’t think that it would have been that way with anyone else. They just had it from the moment that they met at the bar. It continued all the way through the story. Even though they had lots going on physically between them, there was a lot of things going on emotionally for them too. Their bond was just growing deeper and deeper. The closer that they got physically then the closer they got emotionally. I really liked seeing that progression. It made for a nice balance between the two aspect of their relationship, but it made for a complete relationship between the two fo them. That was done really well I thought.
I felt John being a shifter didn’t play a big roll in the story, yet it did. I felt it was such a natural part of who John was as a person that it was easy to forget that it was unusual. For Logan and Will, it was, and they did have questions, but it didn’t overwhelm the story where it felt like that part just took over the entire plot. It wasn’t like this thing hanging over their heads where it was preventing John and Logan from being together. It were other obstacles that were causing that divide and friction between them. So, it didn’t feel as big of a deal, yet added to the story to give it richness. I liked that.
One thing that seemed out of place for me had nothing to do with the romance, but a scene between the children that had me like “what?” Both Cora and Will, Logan’s son decided to pull a prank out their parental figures. First I didn’t understand why the pulled that particular prank because it wasn’t really funny at all. It was just weird and just asking for trouble on so many levels. I get their kids, but still they had to know how Logan and John would have reacted to that prank. It’s not the typical prank. It bordered on serious. Secondly, it just took the pacing off a bit I think when they did it because it just came out of nowhere. I wasn’t expecting it. I didn’t care for it.
Overall, the romance was really good I thought. There was a great balance between the emotional and physical side of John and Logan’s relationship. I did fear that it was going to be too much focused on the physical the way they were interacting in the beginning, but the changed very quickly as they started to get to know each other by having those intimate and as their relationship progressed more honest conversations with one another. I loved seeing those vulnerable moments that they had together especially in Logan’s case as he showed his insecurities over his prosthetics as well as the damaged that was left behind of his leg to John for the first time. I could feel Logan’s fear yet his strength as he wanted to show it to John, knowing that John was this great person that would never belittle him or mock Logan’s physical imperfections. In fact John was very careful and understanding as he took the prosthetic off of Logan’s leg for the first time. John was very loving and caring all while gently massaging his leg while he did so. It was just very cute and sweet, balancing out the hot and sexy side that these two engage in multiple upon multiple times within the story. Very steamy of read, but an intimate one as well. I liked how they both had to overcome things before they got their happily ever after in the end. It was very clear that they belonged together. It was just an enjoyable and sexy read that was so much better than yesterday’s read. It was step up, for sure, which was a win in my book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2015
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first in a new shifter series that’s a bit different from the normal shifter series in that the shifters are different types; eagle, bear, wolf, otter. The Alaskan wilderness makes a great setting for the mix of these shifters.
Launch the Hunt features John a bush pilot who is also an eagle shifter and Logan a military veteran who lost both his legs in combat. Logan is attempting to spend quality time with his teenage son after his recent divorce while also coming to terms with being gay. John is confident in who he is and has been raising his sister since the loss of their parents.
I enjoyed the leisurely pace with which this book started. I got to know who both Logan and John really were and liked the way John easily accepted Logan and his disability. The commitment to relationship between these two was a bit rushed, and the big commitment statement they made happened way too soon. More of the two of them after Logan came back to Alaska would have made the commitment more believable.
I really liked the set up to this series and look forward to more stories to come.
This is the first in a new shifter series that’s a bit different from the normal shifter series in that the shifters are different types; eagle, bear, wolf, otter. The Alaskan wilderness makes a great setting for the mix of these shifters.
Launch the Hunt features John a bush pilot who is also an eagle shifter and Logan a military veteran who lost both his legs in combat. Logan is attempting to spend quality time with his teenage son after his recent divorce while also coming to terms with being gay. John is confident in who he is and has been raising his sister since the loss of their parents.
I enjoyed the leisurely pace with which this book started. I got to know who both Logan and John really were and liked the way John easily accepted Logan and his disability. The commitment to relationship between these two was a bit rushed, and the big commitment statement they made happened way too soon. More of the two of them after Logan came back to Alaska would have made the commitment more believable.
I really liked the set up to this series and look forward to more stories to come.
July 13, 2016
I got this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review through the DBML program of the M/M Romance group at Goodreads.
Now this is not your usual shifter book, many species of shifters live in Grizzly Rim, Alaska. John Tillman is an eagle shifter. Logan Maddox Lost both of his legs serving as a soldier. I find it interesting that the ability to shift in this shifter universe is through the semen of a male shifter. The attraction they feel is complicated by John's 17 year old sister, that since the death of his parents he was responsible for, and Logan's teenage son who because of time away serving in the army is estranged. Logan come to Alaska to spend time with his son hunting to try to reconnect. Between the potential to turn Logan into a shifter and having to tell Logan what he is and Logan's fear that no "whole" male would want him, through these complications, the love find a way to blossom. the scene with John flying in eagle form after his sister when she fly the plane is poignant and slightly unrealistic but can fall under amazing thing people do when someone they love is in danger.
Now this is not your usual shifter book, many species of shifters live in Grizzly Rim, Alaska. John Tillman is an eagle shifter. Logan Maddox Lost both of his legs serving as a soldier. I find it interesting that the ability to shift in this shifter universe is through the semen of a male shifter. The attraction they feel is complicated by John's 17 year old sister, that since the death of his parents he was responsible for, and Logan's teenage son who because of time away serving in the army is estranged. Logan come to Alaska to spend time with his son hunting to try to reconnect. Between the potential to turn Logan into a shifter and having to tell Logan what he is and Logan's fear that no "whole" male would want him, through these complications, the love find a way to blossom. the scene with John flying in eagle form after his sister when she fly the plane is poignant and slightly unrealistic but can fall under amazing thing people do when someone they love is in danger.
June 15, 2015
Logan is a newly single guy, sharing custody of his son, bonding on a trip to Alaska. He’s also learning to use his prosthetics after being injured in the military.
John is raising his sister, on the final leg as it were, and thinking about the future. He ends up taking a job of playing tour guide to Logan and his son and knows that, at least in the near future, things are looking good.
**
This is a novella, so things move quickly. The attraction is there immediately and the men – not bar sluts, so they move with some trepidation – act swiftly but with temperance. I loved that they didn’t immediately have sex though they did become physical right away.
Mia West is a new author to me and I’m looking forward to more of this series! Her writing is smooth and flows well. Her world building is EXCELLENT and the characters are complex, including the secondary characters.
As with any good story, I wish it’d been longer, but I definitely feel we got a solid HEA and that our guys were in it for the long haul.
I highly recommend this new series !
John is raising his sister, on the final leg as it were, and thinking about the future. He ends up taking a job of playing tour guide to Logan and his son and knows that, at least in the near future, things are looking good.
**
This is a novella, so things move quickly. The attraction is there immediately and the men – not bar sluts, so they move with some trepidation – act swiftly but with temperance. I loved that they didn’t immediately have sex though they did become physical right away.
Mia West is a new author to me and I’m looking forward to more of this series! Her writing is smooth and flows well. Her world building is EXCELLENT and the characters are complex, including the secondary characters.
As with any good story, I wish it’d been longer, but I definitely feel we got a solid HEA and that our guys were in it for the long haul.
I highly recommend this new series !
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