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The Tameness of the Wolf #3
Strength of the Mate
Rampaging werewolves cause the True Alpha to send his Omega, Dawson Rivers, to bring them under control. Can Adam Madison help or hinder Dawson's mission?
Adam Madison is in Iraq, driving supply trucks for the Marines, but he still can't outrun his personal ghosts. Outside the wire, insurgents are a relentless threat. Inside, renegade werewolves are a constant danger.
Dawson Rivers is on a mission for the True Alpha---bring the rampaging shifters under control. Adam proves to be invaluable to his task. Their intense mutual attraction explodes into a powerful physical, and emotional connection.
Their future together is in peril, when Adam's convoy is ambushed.
Can they learn to rely on the strength of their bond? Adam staying alive long enough for Dawson to find him depends on it.
Adam Madison is in Iraq, driving supply trucks for the Marines, but he still can't outrun his personal ghosts. Outside the wire, insurgents are a relentless threat. Inside, renegade werewolves are a constant danger.
Dawson Rivers is on a mission for the True Alpha---bring the rampaging shifters under control. Adam proves to be invaluable to his task. Their intense mutual attraction explodes into a powerful physical, and emotional connection.
Their future together is in peril, when Adam's convoy is ambushed.
Can they learn to rely on the strength of their bond? Adam staying alive long enough for Dawson to find him depends on it.
414 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 20, 2014
25 people are currently reading
915 people want to read
About the author
Kendall McKenna
23 books676 followers Kendall McKenna
love & dog tags
Kendall McKenna is an author of M/M erotic romance novels featuring well-developed characters, complex stories, and realistic action sequences.
Kendall McKenna is the MLR Press 2013 Author of the Year. Her first work of fiction was written at the worldly age of nine, and was a transformative work that expanded on the story told in a popular song of the time.
She tried her hand at vampire and cowboy fiction, winning high school poetry and short story contests along the way. It wasn’t until she discovered the world of m/m erotic fiction and found her stride with cops, Marines and muscle cars, that she felt inspired to share her stories with readers who enjoy the same things.
Putting herself through college by working in a newly-created HIV testing clinic in her local Department of Health, introduced Kendall to the gay and lesbian community. Understanding and empathy has made her a lifetime advocate of GLBT issues.
A brief bout of unemployment gave Kendall the time and focus she needed to finally produce a novel worth submitting for publication. Her first novel, Brothers In Arms , introduced the world to her authentic military stories and characters. Kendall’s second novel, Strength of the Pack, was nominated for a 2013 Bookie Award, by Author’s After Dark.
Kendall was born and raised in Southern California, where she still lives and works. A non-conventional relationship has kept her happy for the last decade. Her four dogs enjoy it when she writes, as she sits still long enough for them to curl up around her.
Website/Blog:
www.kendallmckenna.com
Facebook:
www.facebook.com/kendallmckenna
love & dog tags
Kendall McKenna is an author of M/M erotic romance novels featuring well-developed characters, complex stories, and realistic action sequences.
Kendall McKenna is the MLR Press 2013 Author of the Year. Her first work of fiction was written at the worldly age of nine, and was a transformative work that expanded on the story told in a popular song of the time.
She tried her hand at vampire and cowboy fiction, winning high school poetry and short story contests along the way. It wasn’t until she discovered the world of m/m erotic fiction and found her stride with cops, Marines and muscle cars, that she felt inspired to share her stories with readers who enjoy the same things.
Putting herself through college by working in a newly-created HIV testing clinic in her local Department of Health, introduced Kendall to the gay and lesbian community. Understanding and empathy has made her a lifetime advocate of GLBT issues.
A brief bout of unemployment gave Kendall the time and focus she needed to finally produce a novel worth submitting for publication. Her first novel, Brothers In Arms , introduced the world to her authentic military stories and characters. Kendall’s second novel, Strength of the Pack, was nominated for a 2013 Bookie Award, by Author’s After Dark.
Kendall was born and raised in Southern California, where she still lives and works. A non-conventional relationship has kept her happy for the last decade. Her four dogs enjoy it when she writes, as she sits still long enough for them to curl up around her.
Website/Blog:
www.kendallmckenna.com
Facebook:
www.facebook.com/kendallmckenna
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
September 15, 2014
I want you naked and on my cock.
Okay. Like this?
Your hole is shiny from the lube. I love watching my dick slide in and out of you. Your asshole clenches around me, like it’s trying to drag me inside.
It is…oh, fuck, it is…
You’re a greedy little shit....Your demanding little ass really wants my cock, doesn’t it?
Fuck yeah, it does....
You like it when I tell you how good your ass feels around my cock?....Sweet ass is so smooth and hot inside....Look at you, ridin’ me hard. Like it deep and hard don’t you?
Yes, oh God, please....
I felt that....I felt you getting off on me talking....I love seeing you with your ass in the air, eager for my cock. You love that, too, don’t you? You like it when I shove you down into the bed, huh? You get fucking turned on when I make it so you can’t move.
D-d-don’t stop...don’t ever stop....
Get yourself off how you need to....I wanna feel you shoot your load on me. Get your spunk on me when you come.
Ungh, ungh, uuuuuuuungh....
*heavy panting*
Ok, so, clearly I’m giving a full 5 stars for Dawson’s dirty talk and hard fuckin’ alone. I mean....
GOOD. GAWD.
As for the rest of the novel I don’t really give a fuck. But I'll discuss it nonetheless.
Our MC Adam is far from perfect. He’s impatient, overly sensitive and defensive. He resents his brothers and has a difficult past. He’s riddled with faults and that makes him the most real main character in this series. I love Lucas & Tim, but they are typical romance heroes – practically perfect. I can relate to Adam and his character growth. Of course, all that growth takes place over a couple of months, which isn’t exactly realistic, but FUCK IT. It’s a romance novel and in romance novels no one ever has to read a self-help book.
Speaking of romance novels....The MCs wouldn’t be so confused about why the werewolves are rubbing off on them all the time if they just. Read. A. Fucking. Paranormal romance! How hard is this, people? If you’re going to Iraq pack some socks, underwear, an extra uniform or three and a crate of Stormy Glenn. Cause seriously? Chances are some werewolf is going to yell “MINE” and start chewing on your neck as he dry humps you. So make like the Boy Scout you probably were and ALWAYS BE PREPARED.
There’s been some talk on the boards (don’t I sound all cool & internety?) about which character/couple will feature in book #4. I think it’s probably Terrell Hubbard. But whoever it is, I would love, LOVE, if it could be from the perspective of a werewolf instead of another clueless human. Don’t get me wrong, I love the series and I will happily plunk down my EIGHT DOLLARS AND NINETY-NINE CENTS PLUS TAX for the next book. But Kendall McKenna has done such a great job creating a new take on werewolves that I would love to see their world through the eyes of a werewolf. Maybe see the wolves thinking process as they hesitate over telling their “mates” ANYTHING other than werewolf history. (Christ. OPEN YOUR FUCKING MOUTHS AND COMMUNICATE, BOYS. Sorry, sorry, just had to get that off my chest.) Actually, I wouldn’t mind hearing more werewolf history, it’s absolutely fascinating what Kendall’s come up with, but I’d like to hear them as stories and not vague explanations as to why the werewolf dude wants to stick his dick down the human dude’s throat. That would be nice. Thank you.
But who gives a shit! Let’s get back to Mr. Lavender eyes, aka Dawson Rivers:
Just look at you. You’re so fucking hot. I get so fucking turned on, watching you enjoy this. Watching you with my cock inside you. You like to get fucked, huh? You like when I fuck you, don’t you?
I do, I really, really do!
December 21, 2020
This is without a doubt, one of my favorite shifter series, and I think this book is by far the best out of all three. Well 4, if you count that little piece we got after this one...which I don't !!!
Now let me start by saying, that reading this one as a stand alone is not smart. I read all of them and I still got confused the first time around. It's has lot of military jargon and most of the shifter world-building is done in the first book. The MC's from that book, also play a big part in all the other books, so it's very important to start with "Strenght of the Pack" .
Now one of the reasons this book is my fave out of the series : DAWSON. That "dirty talking HOT wolf-man", had me at hello !!
"I love seeing you with your ass in the air, eager for my cock".
Adam is Tim's brother (book 2) and he is a truck driver for a company, that transports supplies in Iraq. Marines and especially werewolf ones, are responsible for making sure the delivery goes smoothly and safely...since they have to go through hostile territory.
Dawson has been send by the True Alpha to clean house and kick some werewolf ass, in camp Fallujah. Apparently the pack leader has been acting like a douche and he needs to be replaced by someone with morals....someone like Dawson himself ;)
The attraction between Dawson and Adam is explosive right form the start and it doesn't take long for them to "get it on" .... and boy do they. Don't forget to make sure you have something to cool yourself down with, when you start reading this one !!!
I absolutely loved this one. It was HOT and sweet and it kept me interested until the very end. I am sure I will read this series over and over again. I also hope that someday soon we will get a real 4th book !!
Those three pages we got are not enough for me :( What can I say, I am a selfish greedy bitch... I just want more !!! But.....until then, I will just keep on re-reading these.
Highly recommended ;)
This review was posted on Wendy's Wycked Words
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This review is cross-posted on DirtyBooksObsession
July 3, 2014
Am I the only one who thought that the dirty talk could have been... well... dirtier?
To be honest, the plot is like a mush-ball in my brain. Military shifting something or others... pack leader challenges and fighting and stuff... For me, the strength of these books is the sexual chemistry between the two MCs, not the storyline. While I thought that Adam and Dawson were HOT together, the dirty recesses of my mind thought, "Well, that could have been a wee bit hotter."
I wanted Dawson to embrace Adam's submissive side and get all domineering on his ass... literally. I wanted rougher play, more power plays, but, honestly, I think that might just be me. I loved the sex in the first book in the series and wanted something with that level of explosiveness.
I also noticed that Kendall McKenna doesn't let a lot of verbal exchanges of affection to seep in. We don't get "I love you"s or many tender moments. In fact, fur petting is about as overt as these guys get. Some people might enjoy that level of stoicism, but I felt like I was missing some extra layers of emotion.
That being said, I did feel a little tug on my heart during the last 15% of the book, where some real action takes place. It was a nice break from the plot before it, which didn't do much for me, and showed the connection between the two MCs. I also liked the dynamic between Adam and his brothers. It was a highlight, plot wise.
All in all, a sexy read that will certainly satisfy fans of this series.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
To be honest, the plot is like a mush-ball in my brain. Military shifting something or others... pack leader challenges and fighting and stuff... For me, the strength of these books is the sexual chemistry between the two MCs, not the storyline. While I thought that Adam and Dawson were HOT together, the dirty recesses of my mind thought, "Well, that could have been a wee bit hotter."
I wanted Dawson to embrace Adam's submissive side and get all domineering on his ass... literally. I wanted rougher play, more power plays, but, honestly, I think that might just be me. I loved the sex in the first book in the series and wanted something with that level of explosiveness.
I also noticed that Kendall McKenna doesn't let a lot of verbal exchanges of affection to seep in. We don't get "I love you"s or many tender moments. In fact, fur petting is about as overt as these guys get. Some people might enjoy that level of stoicism, but I felt like I was missing some extra layers of emotion.
That being said, I did feel a little tug on my heart during the last 15% of the book, where some real action takes place. It was a nice break from the plot before it, which didn't do much for me, and showed the connection between the two MCs. I also liked the dynamic between Adam and his brothers. It was a highlight, plot wise.
All in all, a sexy read that will certainly satisfy fans of this series.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
August 21, 2015
Loved it! Dawson is the best dirty talking werewolf in all the land.
November 24, 2015
I liked this one slightly better than the first book in the series, but it suffered from the same problems:
- Meandering plot about pack dynamics, power play, vague military unrest, and a rogue wolf or three. I would fail that quiz is all I'm sayin'.
- Too long. Almost 7,000 locations! Mind you, I love long books if I'm into them, but this one dragged. See my first point.
- Not enough tenderness between the men. They're mates, but no words of love are exchanged.
- Adam's POV is so limiting. This series would be stronger IMO if we could see what the shifters are thinking too. Dual POV would rock.
So why three stars?
- DIRTY TALK, BABY! I loved Dawson's toppiness and the way he manhandled Adam. And god knows Adam really needed someone to hold him down and fuck him.
- SHOWER SEX. Actually, sex everywhere, all the time, every which way possible. Yes, please.
- HEA
- Nice camaraderie between Adam and his werewolf friends.
- Sex and more sex
I'll have to think long and hard (*smirks*) before reading the next book in the series. As spectacular as the steamy times are, they're not enough to sustain my full interest.
- Meandering plot about pack dynamics, power play, vague military unrest, and a rogue wolf or three. I would fail that quiz is all I'm sayin'.
- Too long. Almost 7,000 locations! Mind you, I love long books if I'm into them, but this one dragged. See my first point.
- Not enough tenderness between the men. They're mates, but no words of love are exchanged.
- Adam's POV is so limiting. This series would be stronger IMO if we could see what the shifters are thinking too. Dual POV would rock.
So why three stars?
- DIRTY TALK, BABY! I loved Dawson's toppiness and the way he manhandled Adam. And god knows Adam really needed someone to hold him down and fuck him.
- SHOWER SEX. Actually, sex everywhere, all the time, every which way possible. Yes, please.
- HEA
- Nice camaraderie between Adam and his werewolf friends.
- Sex and more sex
I'll have to think long and hard (*smirks*) before reading the next book in the series. As spectacular as the steamy times are, they're not enough to sustain my full interest.
June 25, 2014
This is tricksy for my to rate! The first 50% was 5 star because of the sheer amount of word porn, then it got super boring for like 30% which is closer to a 2 or 3 star, then REALLY exciting again and closer to a 4.
By the end, I just wanted more Dawson.
Dawson is my favorite wolfie to date. This book is really hot, if a tad bit long. And man, these wolves have some serious draaaammmaaaa. It's pretty much like a frat house in a war zone. Let's be honest here.
---
I JUST REMEMBERED I HAVE ALLROMANCEEBOOKS CREDIT AND THIS IS ON THERE! *hyperventilates*
---
HOW ARE THERE RATINGS ON THIS?
Did people get ARCs?!
*punches fists through people*
By the end, I just wanted more Dawson.
Dawson is my favorite wolfie to date. This book is really hot, if a tad bit long. And man, these wolves have some serious draaaammmaaaa. It's pretty much like a frat house in a war zone. Let's be honest here.
---
I JUST REMEMBERED I HAVE ALLROMANCEEBOOKS CREDIT AND THIS IS ON THERE! *hyperventilates*
---
HOW ARE THERE RATINGS ON THIS?
Did people get ARCs?!
*punches fists through people*
March 11, 2015
Written July 21, 2014
3 1/2 Stars - Good and well written —but I'm sorry to say— kind of slow with lack of exciting story and a bit too long for me right now
Book #3
The of me so highly anticipated third installment in a great M/M war shifter series was at last here. I cheered and began to read with my dear buddy read friends Andrea and Bev several weeks ago.
There is nothing to deny or pretend...
I'm a bit disappointed. I had hoped for an obvious four or fifth in this series once more. Fact is that It took me almost a whole month to read this third installment. Adam and Dawson's story didn't captivate and enthralled me, sad to say, to read all night, in the bathroom, everywhere you can, every spare minute, etc.
This was a "good enough" war-shifter-romance - but not a great winner this time.
***********************************************************
~ Very short; the Tameness of the Wolf series:
# The first book #1 - Strength of the Pack (4.5 up to 5 stars) about Noah Hammond a True Alpha werewolf and the Marine Corps lieutenant Lucas Young was stunning good and it really impressed on me. ~ One of the best PNR romances I read so far with a wolf & M/M topic.
# The second book #2 - Strength of the Wolf (4 stars) about the Major Tim Madison and Jeremy Wagner a civilian architect in transition to a True Alpha Werewolf. Pretty good —very hot and smexy— read, but quite not so overwhelming as the first installment
Let’s see what the third book #3 - Stregth of the Mate is up to.
This time is the story about the younger brother to Major Madison (from book #2), the often so troubled, Adam Madison, who is in Iraq driving supply trucks for the Marines.
...Enter; the werewolf Dawson Rivers, on a mission for Noah (from book #1) his True Alpha. ~ A large tough and dominant (fighter) male. A male who immediately proves to want to get a piece of the appealing Adam.
The "needy" shifter mate-play start once again. It heats up properly and it is steaming and yummy. Kendall McKenna knows how to write hot almost animalistic scenes for the bedroom.
***********************************************************
Strength of the Mate wasn't a bad book to read.
I missed maybe a bit of a real story and unique storyline. There was several hot sex scenes, intense emotions, interesting thoughts from time to time and of course in a Ms McKenna novel: "Shifter knowledge and Shifter history".
The last 25% or so, was also pretty good (better storyline ...not just romance and steamy stuff) and with some scary realistic and exciting real war suspense parts. Not unexpected maybe, but that last part increased the whole impression a couple snap up for me.
~ These wars in the Middle East, Iraq, Afghanistan etc are terrible. ~
Though it was actually a bit tough and lengthy all in all. Nothing new under the sun and I wasn't completely thrilled this time.
I hate to be whiny and I might be unfair this time (?)
I really enjoyed and liked these guys and their love story but maybe it was just the wrong time for me.
***********************************************************
As I sayed to a friend; I've probably become a bit lazy and a long book works definitely much worse for me when it's summer and various holiday trips here and there. I could only read a few pages a day some days, stuffed in some other (mostly audio) books between, and probably lost my commitment and attention to this story way too often.
I like and enjoy a lot in these Tameness of the Wolf books. The first and second book was amazing spellbinding to read - highly recommended. Here came the slump IMO, but I'm not giving up and will absolutely give a future fourth part (Strength of the Warrior) a chance.
I LIKE - here and there really good
**********
A buddy read with
...The Ladies BR Quartette. As always a joy to chat with these lovely friends.
**********
The Tameness of the Wolf books:
and later also
**********
June 2014...
JEEZ - I just don't belive it! - ...the price for this new book
3 1/2 Stars - Good and well written —but I'm sorry to say— kind of slow with lack of exciting story and a bit too long for me right now
Book #3
The of me so highly anticipated third installment in a great M/M war shifter series was at last here. I cheered and began to read with my dear buddy read friends Andrea and Bev several weeks ago.
There is nothing to deny or pretend...
I'm a bit disappointed. I had hoped for an obvious four or fifth in this series once more. Fact is that It took me almost a whole month to read this third installment. Adam and Dawson's story didn't captivate and enthralled me, sad to say, to read all night, in the bathroom, everywhere you can, every spare minute, etc.
This was a "good enough" war-shifter-romance - but not a great winner this time.
***********************************************************
~ Very short; the Tameness of the Wolf series:
# The first book #1 - Strength of the Pack (4.5 up to 5 stars) about Noah Hammond a True Alpha werewolf and the Marine Corps lieutenant Lucas Young was stunning good and it really impressed on me. ~ One of the best PNR romances I read so far with a wolf & M/M topic.
# The second book #2 - Strength of the Wolf (4 stars) about the Major Tim Madison and Jeremy Wagner a civilian architect in transition to a True Alpha Werewolf. Pretty good —very hot and smexy— read, but quite not so overwhelming as the first installment
Let’s see what the third book #3 - Stregth of the Mate is up to.
This time is the story about the younger brother to Major Madison (from book #2), the often so troubled, Adam Madison, who is in Iraq driving supply trucks for the Marines.
...Enter; the werewolf Dawson Rivers, on a mission for Noah (from book #1) his True Alpha. ~ A large tough and dominant (fighter) male. A male who immediately proves to want to get a piece of the appealing Adam.
The "needy" shifter mate-play start once again. It heats up properly and it is steaming and yummy. Kendall McKenna knows how to write hot almost animalistic scenes for the bedroom.
***********************************************************
Strength of the Mate wasn't a bad book to read.
I missed maybe a bit of a real story and unique storyline. There was several hot sex scenes, intense emotions, interesting thoughts from time to time and of course in a Ms McKenna novel: "Shifter knowledge and Shifter history".
The last 25% or so, was also pretty good (better storyline ...not just romance and steamy stuff) and with some scary realistic and exciting real war suspense parts. Not unexpected maybe, but that last part increased the whole impression a couple snap up for me.
~ These wars in the Middle East, Iraq, Afghanistan etc are terrible. ~
Though it was actually a bit tough and lengthy all in all. Nothing new under the sun and I wasn't completely thrilled this time.
I hate to be whiny and I might be unfair this time (?)
I really enjoyed and liked these guys and their love story but maybe it was just the wrong time for me.
***********************************************************
As I sayed to a friend; I've probably become a bit lazy and a long book works definitely much worse for me when it's summer and various holiday trips here and there. I could only read a few pages a day some days, stuffed in some other (mostly audio) books between, and probably lost my commitment and attention to this story way too often.
I like and enjoy a lot in these Tameness of the Wolf books. The first and second book was amazing spellbinding to read - highly recommended. Here came the slump IMO, but I'm not giving up and will absolutely give a future fourth part (Strength of the Warrior) a chance.
I LIKE - here and there really good
**********
A buddy read with
...The Ladies BR Quartette. As always a joy to chat with these lovely friends.
**********
The Tameness of the Wolf books:
and later also
**********
June 2014...
JEEZ - I just don't belive it! - ...the price for this new book
January 16, 2015
1st read 7/9/14
2nd read 1/16/15
2nd read 1/16/15
June 24, 2014
This book was a perfect addition to the series. I adored it so much. And I didn't think it was possible to love this series more than I already did. Kendall McKenna knows how to write an amazing military romance, as well as really great shifter stories. And her stories are always amazing no matter what genre she writes. Always.
We knew both characters from the previous book. Adam was introduced as Tim's younger brother and Dawson was introduced as as the administrative assistant to Tim. These guys fit really well together and they made a smoking hot couple. I wasn't 100% sure about these guys as a couple, but I trust Kendall McKenna to make her couples work. Adam and Dawson were both very different characters, but they clicked. I also liked how we saw different sides to them. Adam, who I imagine would be very hard to like for some, had so many issues with himself and with a major event that happened in his past. He was angry and bitter and he lashed out and pushed people away. Including his family. And Dawson was a really caring guy and also super possessive which really fit in with the other books.
As a couple, these guys really were smoking hot! I found it hard to believe at first, but I think these are some of the hottest sex scenes the author has written. It's so hard to believe because this author always writes amazing sex scenes. But were these her best ones yet? Yes, I do believe so. There was just an intensity to the ones here, and in my opinion, that made them even better than the ones in her other books.
But the sex wasn't just hot, it also was emotional and that really was great to see. I mean, this scene actually happened!
This wasn't just about the couple, though, we managed to learn some more about were culture and politics as well as pack dynamics. It was really interesting to hear how they punished shifters who didn't follow the rules and it was really cool to see Alpha Noah in full Alpha mode. Oh yeah, did I mention that? We got to see Lucas and Noah again, as well as Tim. We also got to meet Jason and Paul, who I'd love to see more of. And of course we also met Tim and Adam's brother, Eric.
I know people will probably mention something that this book was lacking, and I understand where people would be coming from, but I don't think this book needed the I love you's like some other books do. For me, anyway, it was obvious how this couple felt. And yes, it would have been nice to have after Adam was kidnapped, but I don't believe it took from the book in any way. Besides, I think the I love you scene with his brothers was needed more than it was here. Maybe that was just me, but after everything they had been through, I really thought they needed it.
So summing up, this book is definitely one I would recommend to fans of the other books, and of the author. I not only fell in love with the book and found another favorite, but it's made me want the next book in the series even more.
And for people who want to know about Eric.
We knew both characters from the previous book. Adam was introduced as Tim's younger brother and Dawson was introduced as as the administrative assistant to Tim. These guys fit really well together and they made a smoking hot couple. I wasn't 100% sure about these guys as a couple, but I trust Kendall McKenna to make her couples work. Adam and Dawson were both very different characters, but they clicked. I also liked how we saw different sides to them. Adam, who I imagine would be very hard to like for some, had so many issues with himself and with a major event that happened in his past. He was angry and bitter and he lashed out and pushed people away. Including his family. And Dawson was a really caring guy and also super possessive which really fit in with the other books.
As a couple, these guys really were smoking hot! I found it hard to believe at first, but I think these are some of the hottest sex scenes the author has written. It's so hard to believe because this author always writes amazing sex scenes. But were these her best ones yet? Yes, I do believe so. There was just an intensity to the ones here, and in my opinion, that made them even better than the ones in her other books.
But the sex wasn't just hot, it also was emotional and that really was great to see. I mean, this scene actually happened!
This wasn't just about the couple, though, we managed to learn some more about were culture and politics as well as pack dynamics. It was really interesting to hear how they punished shifters who didn't follow the rules and it was really cool to see Alpha Noah in full Alpha mode. Oh yeah, did I mention that? We got to see Lucas and Noah again, as well as Tim. We also got to meet Jason and Paul, who I'd love to see more of. And of course we also met Tim and Adam's brother, Eric.
I know people will probably mention something that this book was lacking, and I understand where people would be coming from, but I don't think this book needed the I love you's like some other books do. For me, anyway, it was obvious how this couple felt. And yes, it would have been nice to have after Adam was kidnapped, but I don't believe it took from the book in any way. Besides, I think the I love you scene with his brothers was needed more than it was here. Maybe that was just me, but after everything they had been through, I really thought they needed it.
So summing up, this book is definitely one I would recommend to fans of the other books, and of the author. I not only fell in love with the book and found another favorite, but it's made me want the next book in the series even more.
And for people who want to know about Eric.
Want to read
September 7, 2013
May 20, 2019
Re-read May 2019
I adooooore this book! I loved these guys so much.
Because…. DIRTY TALK, BABY!
This book was just smoking hot!
This story is about Adam, Tim’s younger brother. Adam works as a civilian contractor for a company driving supply trucks for the military in Iraq. He is slowly becoming friends with some werewolves on base. But he can’t stand how the other werewolves on base are harassing everyone when it’s near the full moon.
That’s why Dawson Rivers is being sent. Dawson is the Omega of Noah, the army's True Alpha.
Adam is shocked to find out Dawson is coming to the same base he is at. He met Dawson previously when he was staying at his brother’s house and he cannot help himself drooling over him each time he sees Dawson.
Dawson is there to sort out pack business with the current pack leader, who is doing a terrible job. Dawson thought he would be helping the current pack leader control the rampaging wolves, not knowing the pack leader is the instigator. Dawson has no choice but to challenge him and take his place as pack leader.
Adam runs in to Dawson after the first full moon and Dawson makes it clear he wants to make Adam his. After this night Adam is pursued relentlessly by a very determined werewolf...
I just loved all the wolves and their need to touch. And I really loved Dawson who was all alpha male. Dawson knew he wanted Adam and he just went for it. And the sex scenes… my God, these were so freaking hot! Dawson sure loved to talk dirty.
We had some amazing hurt/comfort in this too. First when Adam doesn't quite get why someone like Dawson wants to be with someone like him. And then when Adam gets .
This book will always be one of my favorites. I love these werewolves so much.
I adooooore this book! I loved these guys so much.
Because…. DIRTY TALK, BABY!
This book was just smoking hot!
This story is about Adam, Tim’s younger brother. Adam works as a civilian contractor for a company driving supply trucks for the military in Iraq. He is slowly becoming friends with some werewolves on base. But he can’t stand how the other werewolves on base are harassing everyone when it’s near the full moon.
That’s why Dawson Rivers is being sent. Dawson is the Omega of Noah, the army's True Alpha.
Adam is shocked to find out Dawson is coming to the same base he is at. He met Dawson previously when he was staying at his brother’s house and he cannot help himself drooling over him each time he sees Dawson.
Dawson is there to sort out pack business with the current pack leader, who is doing a terrible job. Dawson thought he would be helping the current pack leader control the rampaging wolves, not knowing the pack leader is the instigator. Dawson has no choice but to challenge him and take his place as pack leader.
Adam runs in to Dawson after the first full moon and Dawson makes it clear he wants to make Adam his. After this night Adam is pursued relentlessly by a very determined werewolf...
I just loved all the wolves and their need to touch. And I really loved Dawson who was all alpha male. Dawson knew he wanted Adam and he just went for it. And the sex scenes… my God, these were so freaking hot! Dawson sure loved to talk dirty.
We had some amazing hurt/comfort in this too. First when Adam doesn't quite get why someone like Dawson wants to be with someone like him. And then when Adam gets .
This book will always be one of my favorites. I love these werewolves so much.
June 21, 2014
This book was soooooo worth the wait.
Dawson Rivers is one hot as fuck werewolf and boy do I wish I was Adam Madison.
What are you going to do when the pack leader and some other werewolves are essentially terrorizing civilians after each full moon? You're gonna bring Dawson Rivers, the True Alpha's current Omega, to the scene to take care of business.
Reading this book brought back the things that I truly loved about the first book. I like how Adam has to feel his way as he doesn't really know much about werewolf culture. I love how Dawson is all protective and possessive of Adam.
It's a great story and Dawson and Adam had some H-O-T times! I mean, Dawson gave Noah Hammond a run for his money and we all know (well, anyone who has read the first book knows) how unbelievably hot Noah is. Plus, Noah and Lucas are in this book as well and I always love reading about them.
Please let the next book be about Terrell. I thought it was awesome how he kicked ass for Adam. Paul and Jason could use their own books too. I'm trying to make this series go on and on :)
Dawson Rivers is one hot as fuck werewolf and boy do I wish I was Adam Madison.
What are you going to do when the pack leader and some other werewolves are essentially terrorizing civilians after each full moon? You're gonna bring Dawson Rivers, the True Alpha's current Omega, to the scene to take care of business.
Reading this book brought back the things that I truly loved about the first book. I like how Adam has to feel his way as he doesn't really know much about werewolf culture. I love how Dawson is all protective and possessive of Adam.
It's a great story and Dawson and Adam had some H-O-T times! I mean, Dawson gave Noah Hammond a run for his money and we all know (well, anyone who has read the first book knows) how unbelievably hot Noah is. Plus, Noah and Lucas are in this book as well and I always love reading about them.
Please let the next book be about Terrell. I thought it was awesome how he kicked ass for Adam. Paul and Jason could use their own books too. I'm trying to make this series go on and on :)
June 22, 2014
4.5
Giving it that extra .5 for the stellar filthy talk that Dawson peppered throughout the story. Me likey, a lot.
A solid installment to the series. Lots and lots of sexing happening but actually a sweet little love story as well. I do enjoy a damaged character and Adam has plenty of that but I appreciated that he began to move beyond his issues. Good military storyline with nice callback to earlier characters who didn't overwhelm the MC's here. Not sure about the previous Secretary of Defense story that's not touched on here, maybe that'll pick up in a future book.
Not standalone but I've been enjoying the majority of the stories so if you like your MM with a side of military and a topping ;) of werewolf give these a go.
Giving it that extra .5 for the stellar filthy talk that Dawson peppered throughout the story. Me likey, a lot.
A solid installment to the series. Lots and lots of sexing happening but actually a sweet little love story as well. I do enjoy a damaged character and Adam has plenty of that but I appreciated that he began to move beyond his issues. Good military storyline with nice callback to earlier characters who didn't overwhelm the MC's here. Not sure about the previous Secretary of Defense story that's not touched on here, maybe that'll pick up in a future book.
Not standalone but I've been enjoying the majority of the stories so if you like your MM with a side of military and a topping ;) of werewolf give these a go.
January 16, 2021
Hot sex but that's about it as far as I'm concerned. Not much of a storyline in this one, but I do love Dawson Rivers although I have to say that I thought Adam was a strange choice for a mate, but what do I know, maybe he'll grow on me?? 3.75 stars
Another buddy read with Ingela and Andrea. Mwah!!
February 9, 2025
Was going back and forth between 3 or 4 stars but the last 20% really got me, so 4 it is.
This has really good dirty talk, if you’re looking for that!
I wish Adam working through his trauma was more of a focal point, hence my wavering on the rating and the full star off. I also noticed that they didn’t say “I love you” which is really odd since they’re mated for life.
Last thing that annoyed me was the lack of Dawsons pov during the kidnapping, that would’ve been chefs kiss 💋
Not fully convinced this is my true rating but it was the best installment of the series!
This has really good dirty talk, if you’re looking for that!
I wish Adam working through his trauma was more of a focal point, hence my wavering on the rating and the full star off. I also noticed that they didn’t say “I love you” which is really odd since they’re mated for life.
Last thing that annoyed me was the lack of Dawsons pov during the kidnapping, that would’ve been chefs kiss 💋
Not fully convinced this is my true rating but it was the best installment of the series!
June 26, 2014
3.5
Dawson is a hot dirty talker.
There isn't much of a story, really, and I could see the last 15% coming a mile away.
Commas.
I like that Adam was insecure about some things yet unwavering in his opinion when it came to making sure others were ok. In other words, an imperfect human we can all relate to.
It was fun seeing even glimpses of Noah, Tim and the rest.
Some of the writing is extremely obvious, I didn't have to work for much at all.
If you haven't read the first two books before heading into this one, you'll probably feel as frustrated as Adam when it comes to not knowing and understanding the werewolf ways in this universe.
Oh wait, can't forget the HEAT, cuz there is puhlenty of that. HOT.
I did like the supporting characters, they definitely added to the overall atmosphere.
An ok entrant to the series and worth the read if you absolutely loved the first two books.
Dawson is a hot dirty talker.
There isn't much of a story, really, and I could see the last 15% coming a mile away.
Commas.
I like that Adam was insecure about some things yet unwavering in his opinion when it came to making sure others were ok. In other words, an imperfect human we can all relate to.
It was fun seeing even glimpses of Noah, Tim and the rest.
Some of the writing is extremely obvious, I didn't have to work for much at all.
If you haven't read the first two books before heading into this one, you'll probably feel as frustrated as Adam when it comes to not knowing and understanding the werewolf ways in this universe.
Oh wait, can't forget the HEAT, cuz there is puhlenty of that. HOT.
I did like the supporting characters, they definitely added to the overall atmosphere.
An ok entrant to the series and worth the read if you absolutely loved the first two books.
June 16, 2017
3.5 Stars
By now the formula for this series is pretty well known. Werewolf claims human for mate. Human is a bit clueless, thinking their attraction is part of some werewolf ceremony/ritual. Miscommunication or lack of complete disclosure ensues. Wash, rinse, repeat.
I have one complaint and that's the MC Adam. He has the biggest freakin chip on his shoulder and his insecurity and anger were exhausting. Of course he gets over himself but it decreased my enjoyment a bit. That being said, I felt the first book in this series was the best in terms of emotional gravitas.
What one should take away from this is that Kendall McKenna writes awesome smex - so awesome that there probably won't be a future book of hers that I won't read. I'm not kidding - pretty much all the stars are for that :)
By now the formula for this series is pretty well known. Werewolf claims human for mate. Human is a bit clueless, thinking their attraction is part of some werewolf ceremony/ritual. Miscommunication or lack of complete disclosure ensues. Wash, rinse, repeat.
I have one complaint and that's the MC Adam. He has the biggest freakin chip on his shoulder and his insecurity and anger were exhausting. Of course he gets over himself but it decreased my enjoyment a bit. That being said, I felt the first book in this series was the best in terms of emotional gravitas.
What one should take away from this is that Kendall McKenna writes awesome smex - so awesome that there probably won't be a future book of hers that I won't read. I'm not kidding - pretty much all the stars are for that :)
June 25, 2014
I seriously need to hook up with a dirty mouthed werewolf because Dawson Rivers was the sexiest man I've read about since....well, since Noah Hammond. I really do love my alpha men and these two are the epitome of what really revs my engine.
I normally don't like reading excessive sex scenes but these two guys, Adam and Dawson, are just too hot NOT to have all that sexing going on. Nothing would have made this book better EXCEPT: having some scenes from Dawson's point of view, and a big, fat I love you at the end. These two express their affection and love so blatantly that the lack of lovey dovey words was not really missed too much.
A fantastic addition to the series and now if Kendall will throw in a little MMM in her next book I would not complain at all. Just saying.
I normally don't like reading excessive sex scenes but these two guys, Adam and Dawson, are just too hot NOT to have all that sexing going on. Nothing would have made this book better EXCEPT: having some scenes from Dawson's point of view, and a big, fat I love you at the end. These two express their affection and love so blatantly that the lack of lovey dovey words was not really missed too much.
A fantastic addition to the series and now if Kendall will throw in a little MMM in her next book I would not complain at all. Just saying.
June 24, 2015
4.5 Stars
With each book, in this series, that I’ve read, I've come to like it more and more! Plenty of alpha male military man deliciousness combined with shifters - and wolf shifters at that! Wolf shifter stories are my favorite.
In Strength of the Mate , Tim Madison's younger brother, Adam, is working as a contractor in Iraq driving tanker trucks to supply the troops with needed fuel. Adam is a troubled man, though. He never really dealt with the death of his younger brother Jason many years before. Adam really should have sought counselling for his PTSD and self-blame issues caused by that incident. Sometimes bad things happen and it sucks. But as a result of all of it, Adam holds himself apart from family and lovers.
Dawson Rivers, Noah's Omega, is sent to Camp Fallujah to straighten out some issues with the on-base pack leader and some of the other wolves. They are seriously abusing their power and harassing other Marines and civilian contactors and overall, making everyone's lives unpleasant. When Dawson does an assessment of the base situation, he discovers that problems were a lot deeper than he thought and he is forced to take action.
Dawson and Adam have met before, of course, and Adam is seriously attracted to Dawson. He doesn't want to be, at all, but he can't fight it, or hide it. And Dawson feels the same way about Adam. What starts out as protective feelings toward Adam soon becomes a blazing hot passion that Adam just doesn’t understand. It would seem that the entire werewolf population is incapable of explaining things like choosing mates in any way other than metaphor. Silly wolves.
I, pretty much, enjoyed everything about this story. The bit of the story that causes the inevitable separation between Adam and Dawson wasn’t as intense as I think it could have been and I think the story would have been better if we learned the motives as it happened, rather than later. I did like that it wasn’t a “typical” romance novel break, though.
I would definitely recommend this book and this series to those who enjoy M/M stories with military and shifter themes. Very well done!
With each book, in this series, that I’ve read, I've come to like it more and more! Plenty of alpha male military man deliciousness combined with shifters - and wolf shifters at that! Wolf shifter stories are my favorite.
In Strength of the Mate , Tim Madison's younger brother, Adam, is working as a contractor in Iraq driving tanker trucks to supply the troops with needed fuel. Adam is a troubled man, though. He never really dealt with the death of his younger brother Jason many years before. Adam really should have sought counselling for his PTSD and self-blame issues caused by that incident. Sometimes bad things happen and it sucks. But as a result of all of it, Adam holds himself apart from family and lovers.
Dawson Rivers, Noah's Omega, is sent to Camp Fallujah to straighten out some issues with the on-base pack leader and some of the other wolves. They are seriously abusing their power and harassing other Marines and civilian contactors and overall, making everyone's lives unpleasant. When Dawson does an assessment of the base situation, he discovers that problems were a lot deeper than he thought and he is forced to take action.
Dawson and Adam have met before, of course, and Adam is seriously attracted to Dawson. He doesn't want to be, at all, but he can't fight it, or hide it. And Dawson feels the same way about Adam. What starts out as protective feelings toward Adam soon becomes a blazing hot passion that Adam just doesn’t understand. It would seem that the entire werewolf population is incapable of explaining things like choosing mates in any way other than metaphor. Silly wolves.
I, pretty much, enjoyed everything about this story. The bit of the story that causes the inevitable separation between Adam and Dawson wasn’t as intense as I think it could have been and I think the story would have been better if we learned the motives as it happened, rather than later. I did like that it wasn’t a “typical” romance novel break, though.
I would definitely recommend this book and this series to those who enjoy M/M stories with military and shifter themes. Very well done!
August 9, 2016
This took me way too long to finish. And it might've suffered a bit from my "Sam takes way too long to read so things don't flow as well and it messes with her ratings" but, eff it. I'm giving it a 4.5, because damn, Kendall McKenna, just damn.
This story follows up with Adam Madison, Tim Madison's brother, and Dawson Rivers, Noah's Omega. Adam isn't too sure of things when Dawson is sent to Camp Fallujah to deal with a number of problems revolving around the wolf pack on base.
Things change however when Adam realizes that the cruel harassment that many civilians and lower-ranked Marines have been facing are not "just how things are" and Dawson proves not only to be a good friend, but a passionate lover as well.
So, I'm a sucker for dirty talk, and Dawson was so full of it, I probably bounced around happily anytime he spoke. It wasn't cheesy to me, or over-the-top. It was spicy and just right.
This book gave me a bit of what I was missing in the previous book with Tim and Jeremy, the passion. I truly felt the connection between Adam and Dawson, and that's so important to a story.
On top of it all, we also got to see more of the Madison family, and along with Adam's healing about the death of his brother, Jase, we witness the healing of the brothers, all coming together over an event that happens in this book, and strengthening their once weakened bonds.
I am so ready for the next, Ms. McKenna, whatever you have for me, I'll take it!
----
So this isn't Terrell and Kei's story?
That's cool. I'm okay with that.
I just want more.
Whoever, whenever, wherever. I'm not picky.
MOAR.
Leaving himself vulnerable to the strength of a shifter was risky, but whatever it was that made him want to drive trucks in a war zone, made him want to be naked with Dawson Rivers.
This story follows up with Adam Madison, Tim Madison's brother, and Dawson Rivers, Noah's Omega. Adam isn't too sure of things when Dawson is sent to Camp Fallujah to deal with a number of problems revolving around the wolf pack on base.
Things change however when Adam realizes that the cruel harassment that many civilians and lower-ranked Marines have been facing are not "just how things are" and Dawson proves not only to be a good friend, but a passionate lover as well.
So, I'm a sucker for dirty talk, and Dawson was so full of it, I probably bounced around happily anytime he spoke. It wasn't cheesy to me, or over-the-top. It was spicy and just right.
This book gave me a bit of what I was missing in the previous book with Tim and Jeremy, the passion. I truly felt the connection between Adam and Dawson, and that's so important to a story.
On top of it all, we also got to see more of the Madison family, and along with Adam's healing about the death of his brother, Jase, we witness the healing of the brothers, all coming together over an event that happens in this book, and strengthening their once weakened bonds.
I am so ready for the next, Ms. McKenna, whatever you have for me, I'll take it!
----
So this isn't Terrell and Kei's story?
That's cool. I'm okay with that.
I just want more.
Whoever, whenever, wherever. I'm not picky.
MOAR.
January 30, 2024
Re-read jan 2024
This book is one of my go-to books when I need something good.
I love how Adam grows here and Dawson is perfect
re-read 2022
I still love this book. Dawson and Adam are a great couple and I love their connection, perfectly described in these two statements:
"we are stronger togehter than apart"
"I am a better person with him around"
Re-read 2020
Still one of my all-time favorites. I love this book
re-read June 2017
definitely one of my all-time favorites. Adam and DAwson are just great and I love this story!
re-read September 24th
I adore this story. I just re-read the whole series. to be precise, I started with this book and then read all three again.
Adam and Dawson are a great couple and I love how they interact. I can't praise this book and this story enough!
first review - June, 22nd
I absolutely adored this story! I think it may be the best in this series. and I really hope there will be more books
This book is one of my go-to books when I need something good.
I love how Adam grows here and Dawson is perfect
re-read 2022
I still love this book. Dawson and Adam are a great couple and I love their connection, perfectly described in these two statements:
"we are stronger togehter than apart"
"I am a better person with him around"
Re-read 2020
Still one of my all-time favorites. I love this book
re-read June 2017
definitely one of my all-time favorites. Adam and DAwson are just great and I love this story!
re-read September 24th
I adore this story. I just re-read the whole series. to be precise, I started with this book and then read all three again.
Adam and Dawson are a great couple and I love how they interact. I can't praise this book and this story enough!
first review - June, 22nd
I absolutely adored this story! I think it may be the best in this series. and I really hope there will be more books
June 30, 2015
First read June 2014
Re-read June 2015
4.5 rounded up
This is the story of Major Tim Madison's little brother Adam, a civilian contractor working with the Marine Corps in Iraq and the True Alpha's Omega wolf, Dawson Rivers, who is sent to the base to sort out a problem with the wolf pack. The pair get together as Dawson takes over as the pack Alpha and Adam comes to terms with the fact that he's actually in a relationship for the first time. Adam has family issues to overcome and Dawson has to deal with the former pack leaders (with help from Noah and Lucas), and just when everything seems to be going smoothly, disaster happens, separating the pair.
This series is quite heavy on military technicalities and vocabulary, but the set up with the wolf packs running alongside the arm is very well done. It will be interesting to see where the next book takes the series.
Re-read June 2015
4.5 rounded up
This is the story of Major Tim Madison's little brother Adam, a civilian contractor working with the Marine Corps in Iraq and the True Alpha's Omega wolf, Dawson Rivers, who is sent to the base to sort out a problem with the wolf pack. The pair get together as Dawson takes over as the pack Alpha and Adam comes to terms with the fact that he's actually in a relationship for the first time. Adam has family issues to overcome and Dawson has to deal with the former pack leaders (with help from Noah and Lucas), and just when everything seems to be going smoothly, disaster happens, separating the pair.
This series is quite heavy on military technicalities and vocabulary, but the set up with the wolf packs running alongside the arm is very well done. It will be interesting to see where the next book takes the series.
April 1, 2025
Oh My!!!! Loved the first book? Then you will LOVE this one too! Has everything.. angst, unsureness of worth, relationship, sex, wolf. Back on base in the hot zone but with a civilian this time. I liked that Adam didn't know or understand a lot of werewolf stuff. Lucas may have started out that way but had more of a heads up than Adam.
And frankly, the sexual side of Adam was a bit startling as well as hot! I would have to say the biggest complaint about Adam's character is that too often it felt like he was a silent player in intimate encounters. Dawson is a talker, and dirty talker at that. While the impression is there that he's touching on an erotic button pusher for Adam, I didn't feel a lot of vocalization on his part. Even if incoherent, grunts and moaning described would have pushed these encounters even further.
Definitely worth the wait.
And frankly, the sexual side of Adam was a bit startling as well as hot! I would have to say the biggest complaint about Adam's character is that too often it felt like he was a silent player in intimate encounters. Dawson is a talker, and dirty talker at that. While the impression is there that he's touching on an erotic button pusher for Adam, I didn't feel a lot of vocalization on his part. Even if incoherent, grunts and moaning described would have pushed these encounters even further.
Definitely worth the wait.
December 20, 2014
This was a lot better than the other two!
Oh wait, I mean I still loved Noah and Lucas. And I get to see them in here too. Yaayy!
But come on.. Dawson and Adam? They're like a chemistry bomb. LOL.
Totally worth it. :))
PS : I wonder when the book #4 is going to be published.. ;)
Oh wait, I mean I still loved Noah and Lucas. And I get to see them in here too. Yaayy!
But come on.. Dawson and Adam? They're like a chemistry bomb. LOL.
Totally worth it. :))
PS : I wonder when the book #4 is going to be published.. ;)
July 13, 2014
This is the story of Adam Madison, brother of Tim from "Strength of the Wolf" and Dawson Rivers, Omega of Noah, the True Alpha, who was also introduced in "Strength of the Wolf".
Adam is different in this book . We already know he’s a broken man, quick to anger. He has made sure he knows nothing about the werewolf culture. This is to not be compared to his big brother Tim Madison. And then he meets Dawson, Noah’s omega wolf. He is send to Camp Fallujah to look into some issues… Adam is a civilian truck driver who transports supplies for the marines.
The relationship between Dawson and Adam starts quickly.. Dawson is territorial and protective of Adam. He wants to do everything to make him happy. He growls, bites, marks…. Man and the dirty talk between them… oempph
I really loved to see their relationship develop.
I loved that we get to see Lucas and Noah again. They are still my favorite!!
When Adam is and tell all the people he loves them. Finally a military issue that I could understand....
One thing I was disappointed in, is the fact that Dawson and Adam really never exchange the “I love you’s”. But this is quite common in this series because the way of communication is different than we "humans" are used to….
I can’t wait for the 4th installement!!
Adam is different in this book . We already know he’s a broken man, quick to anger. He has made sure he knows nothing about the werewolf culture. This is to not be compared to his big brother Tim Madison. And then he meets Dawson, Noah’s omega wolf. He is send to Camp Fallujah to look into some issues… Adam is a civilian truck driver who transports supplies for the marines.
The relationship between Dawson and Adam starts quickly.. Dawson is territorial and protective of Adam. He wants to do everything to make him happy. He growls, bites, marks…. Man and the dirty talk between them… oempph
I really loved to see their relationship develop.
I loved that we get to see Lucas and Noah again. They are still my favorite!!
When Adam is and tell all the people he loves them. Finally a military issue that I could understand....
One thing I was disappointed in, is the fact that Dawson and Adam really never exchange the “I love you’s”. But this is quite common in this series because the way of communication is different than we "humans" are used to….
I can’t wait for the 4th installement!!
July 18, 2014
Adam: You’re an ass.
Dawson: And you have a cute ass.
DAMN! I WANT MORE!!!
THAT’S SCORCHING HO-O-O-T!
*MC’s Corner*
Note: Spoilers.
• One question… Why did they capture him??? O.O
• I liked the addiction of werefoxes, bears and leopards it became more kinda real, you know, wolves are not the only animals… GOT IT??? But please tell me that shifters are only mammals… I can’t picture what an amphibian shifter looks like. GOSH THAT’S CREEPY. *CRINGE*
• I loved that Adam knew that he likes guys. No complications and blah blahs, it just straight to the flow of the story. *thumbs up*
And I really love it when Adam is horny, he’s such a sexy m’fucking slut! *fanning*
• The kissing… I thought the author forgot about it at first. And then it’s part of the story, I was so frustrated (for Adam), he’s not kissing the hell out of him. And then they talked about it.. and they did it… and *sigh* *smile*
• *POUND FIST ON THE TABLE*
MORE!
MORE!
MORE!
@gleekidMC
October 2, 2015
Like the second book, I thought the guys jumped into the sex too quickly. A big part of what I loved so much about the first book in the series was all the UST, I love me some buildup. I'm not really saying that there was too much sex, I just wanted more buildup to all the hot fucking.
That being said, I really liked Dawson and Adam, and their sex was very hot. I do wish McKenna would give us a story from a werewolves' POV next time, instead of the human who knows next to nothing about shifters and their culture. I'm getting a bit tired of the guy thinking this is only temporary, because he doesn't know all the nuances of what he's getting into. I want to see the POV of the shifter, and how he's pursuing a relationship with a human mate. It'd also be kinda nice to see a shifter who's not a wolf, since we now know of at least one fox and leopards. I'd even be down with two different types of shifters getting together, how hot could that be!
That being said, I really liked Dawson and Adam, and their sex was very hot. I do wish McKenna would give us a story from a werewolves' POV next time, instead of the human who knows next to nothing about shifters and their culture. I'm getting a bit tired of the guy thinking this is only temporary, because he doesn't know all the nuances of what he's getting into. I want to see the POV of the shifter, and how he's pursuing a relationship with a human mate. It'd also be kinda nice to see a shifter who's not a wolf, since we now know of at least one fox and leopards. I'd even be down with two different types of shifters getting together, how hot could that be!
dnf
August 20, 2014 I need to quit this series.
The issues I had with the first book were magnified here ten fold.
The baby wipes, the chaos, the rules no one knows, the lack of any kind of social structure, sex in public, wherever.
The adverbs and simple sentence structure just killed it for me. I also couldn't follow who was talking, who was a woof, why they were pissed. Just totally lost.
Strength of the Mate (Tameness of the Wolf Book 3)
The issues I had with the first book were magnified here ten fold.
The baby wipes, the chaos, the rules no one knows, the lack of any kind of social structure, sex in public, wherever.
The adverbs and simple sentence structure just killed it for me. I also couldn't follow who was talking, who was a woof, why they were pissed. Just totally lost.
Strength of the Mate (Tameness of the Wolf Book 3)
June 24, 2014
Damn!!!! Holy hotness. Just finished and right now that is all that comes to mind except how long until the next book comes out????
October 9, 2025
Read 2018, 2020, 2022
😢 I wanted to give this book a 5-star rating. Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy the rereads enough. Book 1 remains my favorite.
MM - PNR - Wolf Shifter - Miltary Romance
MCs
Dawson Rivers is the Omega of the pack, serving as the peacekeeper and social coordinator. He is the true alpha's loyal second, working alongside Noah and Lucas (book 1 MCs). Sent to Iraq's Camp Fallujah to handle pack issues, he was forced to challenge and temporarily lead the pack due to power-hungry werewolves who thrive on fear.
Adam Madison is the younger brother of Major Tim Madison (book 2 MC). He's a civilian who went to Iraq to drive supply trucks.
PLOT:
Over 10 years later, Adam still blames himself for his younger brother's death during a home invasion gone wrong. This tragedy has estranged him from his family and made it hard to form close relationships. Meeting Dawson helps Adam open his heart, learn to love again, and move past his trauma. He eventually reconciles with his two older brothers, especially Tim.
Initially, Adam is bratty and irritating, but he grows into a better person. He makes close friends and gains much-needed self-esteem.
Reasons to Read:
🔥 🇭🇴🇹 𝗠𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗠𝗲𝗻 🔥
🔥 🇵🇱🇺🇸 🇭🇴🇹 🔥
𝗪𝗜𝗧𝗛 𝗔 🇵🇴🇸🇸🇪🇸🇸🇮🇻🇪,
𝗔𝗡𝗗 🇵🇷🇴🇹🇪🇨🇹🇮🇻🇪
𝗙𝗮𝘃𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀:
⭐ Strict top/bottom roles. While I've read some good books with versatile MCs, this is my preferred choice.
⭐ D/s in the bedroom. These men sound and act like real men, but in the bedroom the alpha takes charge.
⭐ Hurt/Comfort. Dawson helps Adam heal.
☹️ 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜 𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗻'𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
(1) The boring filler. Some scenes should've been shortened or left out.
▪️ The werewolf pack and their rituals.
▪️ The tribunal / court session. The charges were heard and the bad guys sentenced.
(2) What happened to Adam. . I found it unlikely that someone in captivity would receive three meals a day, plenty of water, medical care, and minimal abuse. 🙄
(3) Other shifters exist in this world.
(4) The rushed ending. It felt like the author had a word count limit and had to wrap things up quickly. While it ends well with an HEA, I wasn't satisfied.
(5) The language. This had the most.
(295 F's + other words)
No more rereads for this series. I'm done.
(🤗 I'll remember it fondly.)
😢 I wanted to give this book a 5-star rating. Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy the rereads enough. Book 1 remains my favorite.
MM - PNR - Wolf Shifter - Miltary Romance
MCs
Dawson Rivers is the Omega of the pack, serving as the peacekeeper and social coordinator. He is the true alpha's loyal second, working alongside Noah and Lucas (book 1 MCs). Sent to Iraq's Camp Fallujah to handle pack issues, he was forced to challenge and temporarily lead the pack due to power-hungry werewolves who thrive on fear.
Adam Madison is the younger brother of Major Tim Madison (book 2 MC). He's a civilian who went to Iraq to drive supply trucks.
PLOT:
Over 10 years later, Adam still blames himself for his younger brother's death during a home invasion gone wrong. This tragedy has estranged him from his family and made it hard to form close relationships. Meeting Dawson helps Adam open his heart, learn to love again, and move past his trauma. He eventually reconciles with his two older brothers, especially Tim.
Initially, Adam is bratty and irritating, but he grows into a better person. He makes close friends and gains much-needed self-esteem.
Reasons to Read:
🔥 🇭🇴🇹 𝗠𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗠𝗲𝗻 🔥
🔥 🇵🇱🇺🇸 🇭🇴🇹 🔥
𝗪𝗜𝗧𝗛 𝗔 🇵🇴🇸🇸🇪🇸🇸🇮🇻🇪,
𝗔𝗡𝗗 🇵🇷🇴🇹🇪🇨🇹🇮🇻🇪
𝗙𝗮𝘃𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀:
⭐ Strict top/bottom roles. While I've read some good books with versatile MCs, this is my preferred choice.
⭐ D/s in the bedroom. These men sound and act like real men, but in the bedroom the alpha takes charge.
⭐ Hurt/Comfort. Dawson helps Adam heal.
☹️ 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜 𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗻'𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
(1) The boring filler. Some scenes should've been shortened or left out.
▪️ The werewolf pack and their rituals.
▪️ The tribunal / court session. The charges were heard and the bad guys sentenced.
(2) What happened to Adam. . I found it unlikely that someone in captivity would receive three meals a day, plenty of water, medical care, and minimal abuse. 🙄
(3) Other shifters exist in this world.
(4) The rushed ending. It felt like the author had a word count limit and had to wrap things up quickly. While it ends well with an HEA, I wasn't satisfied.
(5) The language. This had the most.
(295 F's + other words)
No more rereads for this series. I'm done.
(🤗 I'll remember it fondly.)
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