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Swan Prince
Trapped between his royal heritage and swan shifter status, Oliver doesn't pay close attention during his flock's winter migration, and gets caught in the crosshairs of a trigger-happy hunter.
Careening toward the ground with no place to go, Oliver submits to his human form. As his swan's feathers recede, he seeks shelter in an old barn.
Bastion's spent the better part of his adult life caring for a bunch of bullheaded stallions, but this is the first time he's ever found a naked and gorgeous man in one of his stalls. When he asks the man his name, he doesn't get a reply. Without a wallet or a voice to tell him who this stranger is, Bastion takes Oliver in, clothes him and tends to a mysterious wound.
Oliver has nowhere else to go. Bastian is in a bind after firing a farmhand who would much rather call in sick than do his job. When passion flares, can Bastion and Oliver overcome their differences, or will this swan prince fly south?
132 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 4, 2014
11 people are currently reading
167 people want to read
About the author
Erin Lark
36 books23 followersI’m a huge fan of second chances and all things paranormal. But when it comes to writing, my real passion lies in heroes that aren’t too over the top and feisty heroines able to hold their own.
If I’m not writing, chances are I’m either out hiking, binge watching an entire series on Netflix, or playing video games with my husband.
If I’m not writing, chances are I’m either out hiking, binge watching an entire series on Netflix, or playing video games with my husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
July 30, 2014
They say fate determines who comes into our lives. In this case, fate finds the form of a swan-shifting prince. A majestic combination and one who comes crashing to the ground, injured seeking safety in a stranger's barn. It sounds like a fairy tale and in many respects Swan Prince was. A passionate and touching fairy tale containing two endearing men who find love where they least expect it.
Whilst the early part of the novella was a little slow going, it does create a fairly detailed picture of both Oliver and Bastion as characters. Alternating between both their perspectives, we discover their thoughts, feelings and fears and there was nothing not to love about these men; they have a beautiful chemistry, are comfortable with their growing feelings and have a deep connection and understanding – particularly from Bastion as Oliver is mute for the majority of the book. Erin Lark has done a wonderful job in keeping the story flowing with, in the main, only thoughts from one half of the couple.
I enjoyed it hugely. Passionate in many more ways than simply the between-the-sheets kind, I found it fairly low angst and whilst it didn’t hold any huge surprises and there were a couple of elements to the story I would have liked elaborated on, it was captivating romantic journey.
Reviewed for Read Your Writes Book Reviews.
Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for review
Whilst the early part of the novella was a little slow going, it does create a fairly detailed picture of both Oliver and Bastion as characters. Alternating between both their perspectives, we discover their thoughts, feelings and fears and there was nothing not to love about these men; they have a beautiful chemistry, are comfortable with their growing feelings and have a deep connection and understanding – particularly from Bastion as Oliver is mute for the majority of the book. Erin Lark has done a wonderful job in keeping the story flowing with, in the main, only thoughts from one half of the couple.
I enjoyed it hugely. Passionate in many more ways than simply the between-the-sheets kind, I found it fairly low angst and whilst it didn’t hold any huge surprises and there were a couple of elements to the story I would have liked elaborated on, it was captivating romantic journey.
Reviewed for Read Your Writes Book Reviews.
Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for review
August 6, 2014
I must admit that shifter tales aren't my usual thing and since I have a dread fear of dogs, anything with werewolves I avoid like the plague. But growing up in Ireland, there are quite a few fairy tales centred on swans, such as The Children of Lir, so when I read the blurb of this one, I thought I would give it a try. And I am so glad I did.
Oliver is the swan prince of the title, living half his life as human, half as a swan, usually six months as each. But on his winter migration, he gets separated from his flock and is attacked by a hunter who clips his wings. Oliver knows the wound is bad and would likely kill him as a swan, but he might be able to tolerate it better as a human and he makes a rapid shift to his human form. Such a drastic change leaves him mute, wounded and naked in the rapidly falling snow, so he seeks shelter in a nearby barn.
Bastion owns the barn, and raises and keeps horses for clients, anything that will help pay the bills. He is shocked to discover a handsome, naked man in one of the stalls, with what seems to be a gunshot wound in his shoulder. Who is this man and what is he doing in Bastion's barn?
This was a sweet, passionate fairy tale romance that was low on the angst, but there is some concerning whether or not Oliver and Bastion can actually become a permanent partnership. Oliver is the prince of his flock, and the rest of them can only shift if their prince is with them.
There are a couple of love scenes in the book, both of them scorching hot and fitting well within the story, they flow as part of the narrative. The story is told half from Oliver's point of view and half from Bastion's, so you get to know each other's feelings. They are both in love, no doubt about that. Both are sympathetic characters that you can relate do and you hope that they can get their happily ever after.
A wonderful read if you are looking for something low on the angst scale. I think personally I would have liked a little bit more angst, perhaps something more about the hunter who attacked Oliver, but all in all I very much enjoyed the book.
Review copy from Netgalley.
Oliver is the swan prince of the title, living half his life as human, half as a swan, usually six months as each. But on his winter migration, he gets separated from his flock and is attacked by a hunter who clips his wings. Oliver knows the wound is bad and would likely kill him as a swan, but he might be able to tolerate it better as a human and he makes a rapid shift to his human form. Such a drastic change leaves him mute, wounded and naked in the rapidly falling snow, so he seeks shelter in a nearby barn.
Bastion owns the barn, and raises and keeps horses for clients, anything that will help pay the bills. He is shocked to discover a handsome, naked man in one of the stalls, with what seems to be a gunshot wound in his shoulder. Who is this man and what is he doing in Bastion's barn?
This was a sweet, passionate fairy tale romance that was low on the angst, but there is some concerning whether or not Oliver and Bastion can actually become a permanent partnership. Oliver is the prince of his flock, and the rest of them can only shift if their prince is with them.
There are a couple of love scenes in the book, both of them scorching hot and fitting well within the story, they flow as part of the narrative. The story is told half from Oliver's point of view and half from Bastion's, so you get to know each other's feelings. They are both in love, no doubt about that. Both are sympathetic characters that you can relate do and you hope that they can get their happily ever after.
A wonderful read if you are looking for something low on the angst scale. I think personally I would have liked a little bit more angst, perhaps something more about the hunter who attacked Oliver, but all in all I very much enjoyed the book.
Review copy from Netgalley.
August 3, 2014
Something was missing...
It's been a while since I came across a swan shifter story so when SWAN PRINCE came across my digital desk I was excited to read something that's just not that common for a change. I feel like the blurb does the book a disservice in that it elaborates on events in the book more than the book itself does.
If you go in anticipating a sort of two-guys-stranded-fall-in-lust story you'll probably enjoy it. I could not get over the lack of chemistry, plodding pace, and contrived feeling of the entire story. You'll need a really strong ability to suspend disbelief for this one. Oliver seems strangely naive and so little is ever really explained about his swan shifting race that I felt like I was being asked to fill in too many of the blanks to get his situation. Bastion on the other hand is even worse. He alludes to past relationships with men and yet he's supposedly rarely away from the ranch he cares for horses at. The isolation doesn't make a lot of sense the way it's presented.
One of the biggest issues I had was with how slowly things moved along and part of that was a that sections were bogged down in horse care and talking about horse care... and yet the author referenced swans having talons many times... which swans don't have. I felt like the animal aspects of the story were very distracting. The second biggest issue I had was the lack of chemistry I felt between the characters. It was literally an insta-lust situation but I never saw a reason the two would fall in love beyond a fated-mate thing. This was actually only the second m/m romance I've read with open-door love scenes and I found that not even that element could save this one for me.
If you're into m/m romance that's more about the sexy times than an actual story you might dig this. I disliked it enough I almost made it a DNF.
Notes: ARC received via publisher.
It's been a while since I came across a swan shifter story so when SWAN PRINCE came across my digital desk I was excited to read something that's just not that common for a change. I feel like the blurb does the book a disservice in that it elaborates on events in the book more than the book itself does.
If you go in anticipating a sort of two-guys-stranded-fall-in-lust story you'll probably enjoy it. I could not get over the lack of chemistry, plodding pace, and contrived feeling of the entire story. You'll need a really strong ability to suspend disbelief for this one. Oliver seems strangely naive and so little is ever really explained about his swan shifting race that I felt like I was being asked to fill in too many of the blanks to get his situation. Bastion on the other hand is even worse. He alludes to past relationships with men and yet he's supposedly rarely away from the ranch he cares for horses at. The isolation doesn't make a lot of sense the way it's presented.
One of the biggest issues I had was with how slowly things moved along and part of that was a that sections were bogged down in horse care and talking about horse care... and yet the author referenced swans having talons many times... which swans don't have. I felt like the animal aspects of the story were very distracting. The second biggest issue I had was the lack of chemistry I felt between the characters. It was literally an insta-lust situation but I never saw a reason the two would fall in love beyond a fated-mate thing. This was actually only the second m/m romance I've read with open-door love scenes and I found that not even that element could save this one for me.
If you're into m/m romance that's more about the sexy times than an actual story you might dig this. I disliked it enough I almost made it a DNF.
Notes: ARC received via publisher.
August 4, 2014
After a chain of two and one star books I've read recently, I finally found a good one that I was hooked on - and that book was Swan Prince. I really, really liked this book right from the start. Honestly, I never would've thought I'd be reading a shifter book about swans until I saw this on enticing me on NetGalley. I knew I just had to read it. And yeah, although just not enoug for a full five stars, it was a really good read.
I was pretty much right into the book from the start. The writing really spoke to me, as did the characters. There's two points of view: Bastion and Oliver. I loved reading about both, but I think I liked reading about Oliver the most because, well, he's a swan (for some time at least). It was really interesting and orginal to read about his swan life with his flock. But don't get me wrong, I liked Bastion also. He was great.
This might not been the most amazing book ever but I enjoyed it thoroughly. It was also a quick book. I read it in less than a day since it's about 132 pages (according to Amazon). I actually kind of wished it was a bit longer because I enjoyed this story and world a lot.
Oh and the romance. I loved it. I haven't read many M/M romance stories, though I do enjoy them, but this one was a really good one. The romance was nicely done with some pretty steamy scenes. I adored the attraction between Oliver and Bastion. It was also pretty interesting with Oliver being temporarily mute to see how they communicated. It wasn't easy at first but they managed pretty well.
So, if you're looking for a quick yet sexy paranormal romance book... Swan Prince by Erin Lark is the one you should read. I really enjoyed it as a quick book in between and I'm so happy this turned out so great. Highly recommended!
I was pretty much right into the book from the start. The writing really spoke to me, as did the characters. There's two points of view: Bastion and Oliver. I loved reading about both, but I think I liked reading about Oliver the most because, well, he's a swan (for some time at least). It was really interesting and orginal to read about his swan life with his flock. But don't get me wrong, I liked Bastion also. He was great.
This might not been the most amazing book ever but I enjoyed it thoroughly. It was also a quick book. I read it in less than a day since it's about 132 pages (according to Amazon). I actually kind of wished it was a bit longer because I enjoyed this story and world a lot.
Oh and the romance. I loved it. I haven't read many M/M romance stories, though I do enjoy them, but this one was a really good one. The romance was nicely done with some pretty steamy scenes. I adored the attraction between Oliver and Bastion. It was also pretty interesting with Oliver being temporarily mute to see how they communicated. It wasn't easy at first but they managed pretty well.
So, if you're looking for a quick yet sexy paranormal romance book... Swan Prince by Erin Lark is the one you should read. I really enjoyed it as a quick book in between and I'm so happy this turned out so great. Highly recommended!
August 4, 2014
A copy was provided from NetGalley in return for an honest review
GenreM/M, Paranormal, Shifter
MC1Bastion
MC2Oliver
Storyline
Oliver is the prince of the swan-shifters and is shot down while flying to meet his flock so they can shift into their human forms for the winter. Forced to shift prematurely into his human form and seek shelter during a snowstorm, he takes refuge in the first place he finds available. Which happens to be Bastion's barn.
Bastion is left high and dry when his unreliable hired hand bails on him once again. When he goes out to the barn to care for the horses he finds a naked and injured man in one of the stalls. The man also happens to be unable to speak. Bastion has never been one to turn away someone or something in need to he patches Oliver up and asks the young man to stay with him until Oliver is well enough to travel again, hoping that Oliver will decide to stay.
As the guys get to know each other better, a bond is formed and neither wants Oliver to leave. But Oliver has a responsibility to his flock that no one else can fulfill.
Conflict
No conflict. Only Oliver's need to take care of his flock so they can shift back to their human forms.
My Thoughts
I didn't hate it, but I didn't love it either. It's a good fluffy read. And a nice spin of the fairy tale classic The Swan Princess
GenreM/M, Paranormal, Shifter
MC1Bastion
MC2Oliver
Storyline
Oliver is the prince of the swan-shifters and is shot down while flying to meet his flock so they can shift into their human forms for the winter. Forced to shift prematurely into his human form and seek shelter during a snowstorm, he takes refuge in the first place he finds available. Which happens to be Bastion's barn.
Bastion is left high and dry when his unreliable hired hand bails on him once again. When he goes out to the barn to care for the horses he finds a naked and injured man in one of the stalls. The man also happens to be unable to speak. Bastion has never been one to turn away someone or something in need to he patches Oliver up and asks the young man to stay with him until Oliver is well enough to travel again, hoping that Oliver will decide to stay.
As the guys get to know each other better, a bond is formed and neither wants Oliver to leave. But Oliver has a responsibility to his flock that no one else can fulfill.
Conflict
No conflict. Only Oliver's need to take care of his flock so they can shift back to their human forms.
My Thoughts
I didn't hate it, but I didn't love it either. It's a good fluffy read. And a nice spin of the fairy tale classic The Swan Princess
July 26, 2014
I'm not usually one to read shifter books but this one was pretty cool. Swan Prince is about Oliver, a swan shifter who's shot down one night by a hunter and ends up stuck in his human form.
One day Bastian finds an injured naked man in one of his horse stalls naturally he's confused as to how he arrived there in the middle of a blizzard, but he takes him in anyway patches up his wound and offers him a job.
Oliver stays with Bastian for a while and helps him out with the horses while his shoulder heals but once it does what will he do leave the man he's falling in love with and go back to his responsibilities as prince to his flock or stay?
An interesting read what with all the werewolf books out there these days I found this to be a refreshing change.
One day Bastian finds an injured naked man in one of his horse stalls naturally he's confused as to how he arrived there in the middle of a blizzard, but he takes him in anyway patches up his wound and offers him a job.
Oliver stays with Bastian for a while and helps him out with the horses while his shoulder heals but once it does what will he do leave the man he's falling in love with and go back to his responsibilities as prince to his flock or stay?
An interesting read what with all the werewolf books out there these days I found this to be a refreshing change.
February 7, 2015
Swan Shifter The Swan Prince had some seriously entertaining moments. Oddly enough it was when Oliver s Oliver was in his human form I enjoyed him the most. Bastion was an interesting character but I felt I was not given enough about him care deeply about him. He owned a one-man horse ranch. I was left with so many questions why was he there? Where was his family? If he was lonely why didn't you go somewhere else even with his horses? I just needed more to get behind him and for me he was the interesting character. Oh and there was a horse that I found interesting, the way that horse responded to Oliver. The ending just kind of happened. I want to know what happened? What the future looked like? How did the flock take to all this humanness. This wasn't bad, it just needed more.
July 29, 2014
Oliver is Royalty, the prince of his flock. As the heir apparent, his flock can only shift at his insistence, and he is expected to breed an heir. His existence has been lonely to say the least as a gay shifter Swan, with the expectations that weigh on his shoulders. As his flock is migrating south, he outsmarts his guards and ends up on his own when he's shot out of the sky. In an attempt to heal, he shifts to his human form, but the force leaves him without a voice. He finds shelter in the closest barn, which is where the barns owner finds him naked, injured and wrapped in a blanket.
Bastion as well has led a life of seclusion and loneliness. He boards and cares for horses, has a special kinship with them, all but Kiba his former hands temperamental horse. When he finds Oliver injured in an empty stall, his first reaction is one of lust and need, but nurturer in him quickly takes over. He takes Oliver home and patches him up, having no idea who Oliver really is. Over the next two weeks, the two men share one passionate kiss but quickly decide not to act further. They develop a form of communication as well, with Oliver being mute after his shift. And Oliver flourishes while caring for Kiba, the horse that seems taken with the stranger from the start. They try their best to ignore the smoldering attraction that is brewing, bubbling just under the surface.
When chemistry is ignited and the relationship is consummated, Oliver feels comfortable enough to share his secret, but receives only doubt and rejection. And then the worst possible best thing happens, his Swan finally emerges. Once Bastion is faced with irrefutable evidence that Oliver is indeed the swan, the bond grows even stronger. Oliver knows that Bastion is his chosen mate, but he also knows he must return to his flock. What he doesn't know is, for how long. Will Bastion be waiting for him when he returns?
What a fascinating take on the traditional Swan Prince story. I'm a huge fan of fairy tales, and I love it when authors take the chance and give them a gay twist, especially if they succeed in their endeavors. Both of these men, while one is only a man half of his life, are drawn to each other for many of the same reasons. Why, now, on this night, does Oliver get shot and wind up at Bastion's barn? The snow storm, the vision, the electric reaction when they touch... it's all part of a bigger picture. Fate. I just love a good love story, and this was a good love story.
I don't care much for angst, though I understand it's a necessary secondary character within some stories. But it could have been dialed down a bit in my opinion. And occasionally, the writing seemed to falter and not flow quite as well from chapter to chapter. But overall I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I liked the way Oliver had to learn to communicate with Bastion without the ability to speak. How they slowly fell in love with each other, and winded up saving each other in the end. If you are looking for a fast, cute and endearing story with just the right mix of smexy men between the sheets, then give this one a go, I don't think you'll be disappointed.
*I received a copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Bastion as well has led a life of seclusion and loneliness. He boards and cares for horses, has a special kinship with them, all but Kiba his former hands temperamental horse. When he finds Oliver injured in an empty stall, his first reaction is one of lust and need, but nurturer in him quickly takes over. He takes Oliver home and patches him up, having no idea who Oliver really is. Over the next two weeks, the two men share one passionate kiss but quickly decide not to act further. They develop a form of communication as well, with Oliver being mute after his shift. And Oliver flourishes while caring for Kiba, the horse that seems taken with the stranger from the start. They try their best to ignore the smoldering attraction that is brewing, bubbling just under the surface.
When chemistry is ignited and the relationship is consummated, Oliver feels comfortable enough to share his secret, but receives only doubt and rejection. And then the worst possible best thing happens, his Swan finally emerges. Once Bastion is faced with irrefutable evidence that Oliver is indeed the swan, the bond grows even stronger. Oliver knows that Bastion is his chosen mate, but he also knows he must return to his flock. What he doesn't know is, for how long. Will Bastion be waiting for him when he returns?
What a fascinating take on the traditional Swan Prince story. I'm a huge fan of fairy tales, and I love it when authors take the chance and give them a gay twist, especially if they succeed in their endeavors. Both of these men, while one is only a man half of his life, are drawn to each other for many of the same reasons. Why, now, on this night, does Oliver get shot and wind up at Bastion's barn? The snow storm, the vision, the electric reaction when they touch... it's all part of a bigger picture. Fate. I just love a good love story, and this was a good love story.
I don't care much for angst, though I understand it's a necessary secondary character within some stories. But it could have been dialed down a bit in my opinion. And occasionally, the writing seemed to falter and not flow quite as well from chapter to chapter. But overall I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I liked the way Oliver had to learn to communicate with Bastion without the ability to speak. How they slowly fell in love with each other, and winded up saving each other in the end. If you are looking for a fast, cute and endearing story with just the right mix of smexy men between the sheets, then give this one a go, I don't think you'll be disappointed.
*I received a copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
August 8, 2014
This review can be found at The Blogger Girls review site.
When swan shifter, Oliver, is shot while flying on his way to catching up with his flock, he’s forced into shifting from his swan form into a human and take shelter in a nearby barn. Unfortunately, with the forced shift, it’s left Oliver not only injured but mute. When Bastion, the owner of the barn, finds Oliver, he’s skeptic of the strange man but concerned enough to help and let Oliver stay with him as he heals. What Oliver assumed would only be one night turns into much more when his injury takes longer to heal than he expected. On top of that, the attraction between Oliver and Bastion is almost too much to ignore but they both know Oliver isn’t staying. But as time goes by, it gets harder for them to part and when the time finally comes, will Oliver chose to fulfill his responsibilities or go with his heart and stay with Bastion?
This was SUCH a cute story. I was drawn in from the start when Oliver was injured and Bastion found him. I loved that Bastion was such a generous guy and took Oliver in when he had nothing to offer. When he meets Oliver, he’s confused how a naked man could get into his barn when it’s so cold outside but right from the start, their connection is obvious. Oliver learns pretty quickly that Bastion is his mate but it’s hard for either on them to act on their feelings because of the pain the eventual separation may cause them, especially Bastion. I loved that Bastion was such a sweet guy and he cared so much for not only Oliver as a human but Oliver as a swan… at least after he finally accepted that Oliver was a swan. Oliver is more vulnerable and scared but he’s sort of funny. He’s also mute which made communicating together very hard, even more so when he’s a swan! But I loved those moments of Bastion and Swan Oliver because they weren’t just cute but they were funny, too!
I really enjoyed this one but I seriously wished there had been more of Oliver’s shifter society incorporated into the story. I LOVED the fact that he was stuck as a swan for a part of the book but I missed experiencing his journey to his flock, what happened with the flock and how everything regarding Oliver’s mate being a human went down with the rest of the flock. I felt like because we weren’t shown that part of Oliver’s life that something in the story was missing.
Overall, this was still a lovely read. I loved the fact that Oliver and Bastion got along so well and there were definitely a few laughs in the story especially when Oliver was a swan. It’s a cute, sweet story that has just a touch of a slow-burn romance but, due to its length, is still a bit fast in the love department. If you’re looking for a story that’s quick and easy to read with a different type of shifter, give this one a try.
When swan shifter, Oliver, is shot while flying on his way to catching up with his flock, he’s forced into shifting from his swan form into a human and take shelter in a nearby barn. Unfortunately, with the forced shift, it’s left Oliver not only injured but mute. When Bastion, the owner of the barn, finds Oliver, he’s skeptic of the strange man but concerned enough to help and let Oliver stay with him as he heals. What Oliver assumed would only be one night turns into much more when his injury takes longer to heal than he expected. On top of that, the attraction between Oliver and Bastion is almost too much to ignore but they both know Oliver isn’t staying. But as time goes by, it gets harder for them to part and when the time finally comes, will Oliver chose to fulfill his responsibilities or go with his heart and stay with Bastion?
This was SUCH a cute story. I was drawn in from the start when Oliver was injured and Bastion found him. I loved that Bastion was such a generous guy and took Oliver in when he had nothing to offer. When he meets Oliver, he’s confused how a naked man could get into his barn when it’s so cold outside but right from the start, their connection is obvious. Oliver learns pretty quickly that Bastion is his mate but it’s hard for either on them to act on their feelings because of the pain the eventual separation may cause them, especially Bastion. I loved that Bastion was such a sweet guy and he cared so much for not only Oliver as a human but Oliver as a swan… at least after he finally accepted that Oliver was a swan. Oliver is more vulnerable and scared but he’s sort of funny. He’s also mute which made communicating together very hard, even more so when he’s a swan! But I loved those moments of Bastion and Swan Oliver because they weren’t just cute but they were funny, too!
I really enjoyed this one but I seriously wished there had been more of Oliver’s shifter society incorporated into the story. I LOVED the fact that he was stuck as a swan for a part of the book but I missed experiencing his journey to his flock, what happened with the flock and how everything regarding Oliver’s mate being a human went down with the rest of the flock. I felt like because we weren’t shown that part of Oliver’s life that something in the story was missing.
Overall, this was still a lovely read. I loved the fact that Oliver and Bastion got along so well and there were definitely a few laughs in the story especially when Oliver was a swan. It’s a cute, sweet story that has just a touch of a slow-burn romance but, due to its length, is still a bit fast in the love department. If you’re looking for a story that’s quick and easy to read with a different type of shifter, give this one a try.
July 27, 2014
Oliver has literally been a swan prince for half of his life, as his flock spends half of the year in swan form and the other half as humans. As first born prince, Oliver is responsible for leading his flock in more ways in one. Not only do they look to him for guidance, he also physically leads them in flight as they make their way south for the winter. No longer happy with his position, Oliver sends his flock ahead with plans to catch up shortly, only he is downed by a hunter's bullet and finds himself having to make an emergency landing.
Bastion was surprised to find blood and large white feathers in his born. He was even more surprised to find a naked man in one of his horse stalls. He isn't sure what to make of the handsome man, who seems to be mute and has a gunshot wound to the arm. Unable to speak, and too weak to shift back to his swan form, Oliver must find another way to communicate with Bastion, who he immediately finds himself attracted to. The attraction is mutual and Bastion and Oliver soon find themselves communicating on a much deeper level. When Oliver hands Bastion one of his swan feathers, they share in a vision of Oliver's flock. Bastion convinces himself it was all a dream, but as the relationship continues to grow, Oliver must get Bastion to understand and accept who and what he is and to figure out how they can possibly build a life together.
Swan Prince is a mixture of two of my favorite subgenres of romance, shifters and fairytale retelling. There were several things I liked about the book, but I had some difficulties as well. While the book is fairly short, it was a bit of a slow read for me. I was a bit awkward at time with all of the internal dialogue, especially considering that Oliver did not speak for over 90% of the book, either because he was mute, or because he was a swan. I wish I would have gotten to know more about Oliver, basic things like where he spends his time when he is not a swan and stuff like that.
Things I liked was the budding romance, I thought that the concern that Bastion showed for Oliver, and the way that the relationship and camaraderie grew, and the inventive forms of communication were all really sweet. I loved the interactions between Bastion and Oliver in his swan form. While this was a fantasy where magic exists, I really liked that the author actually made the characters work toward a lasting relationship and not just "magicked" a happily ever after. Overall it was a pretty enjoyable read and I would read more from this author.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Bastion was surprised to find blood and large white feathers in his born. He was even more surprised to find a naked man in one of his horse stalls. He isn't sure what to make of the handsome man, who seems to be mute and has a gunshot wound to the arm. Unable to speak, and too weak to shift back to his swan form, Oliver must find another way to communicate with Bastion, who he immediately finds himself attracted to. The attraction is mutual and Bastion and Oliver soon find themselves communicating on a much deeper level. When Oliver hands Bastion one of his swan feathers, they share in a vision of Oliver's flock. Bastion convinces himself it was all a dream, but as the relationship continues to grow, Oliver must get Bastion to understand and accept who and what he is and to figure out how they can possibly build a life together.
Swan Prince is a mixture of two of my favorite subgenres of romance, shifters and fairytale retelling. There were several things I liked about the book, but I had some difficulties as well. While the book is fairly short, it was a bit of a slow read for me. I was a bit awkward at time with all of the internal dialogue, especially considering that Oliver did not speak for over 90% of the book, either because he was mute, or because he was a swan. I wish I would have gotten to know more about Oliver, basic things like where he spends his time when he is not a swan and stuff like that.
Things I liked was the budding romance, I thought that the concern that Bastion showed for Oliver, and the way that the relationship and camaraderie grew, and the inventive forms of communication were all really sweet. I loved the interactions between Bastion and Oliver in his swan form. While this was a fantasy where magic exists, I really liked that the author actually made the characters work toward a lasting relationship and not just "magicked" a happily ever after. Overall it was a pretty enjoyable read and I would read more from this author.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2014
My Review:
I couldn't resist grabbing this book for review when I saw that it was an m/m romance featuring a wounded swan shifter. Swans...I think this is a first for shifter novels (at least that I know about.)
This book entirely focuses on two men...Bastion and Oliver. Oliver is a swan trying to catch up to his flock who are flying south for the winter when he's shot by a hunter. He ends up in Bastion's horse barn where Bastion finds him in the middle of a snowstorm. Wounded naked man asleep in his hay who can't talk...can you imagine? But Bastion is a pretty laidback guy so he doesn't question it too much. Besides Oliver can't answer so it doesn't do any good to continue to question him.
Bastion runs a horse ranch that's fairly secluded...an hour away from anything, so it's really just the two of them throughout the story. They form a friendship and alliance while Oliver heals.
I liked the overall story. I enjoy animal shifters so it was interesting to read one with a completely different animal. I liked Oliver's connection with Kiba, Bastion's troublesome horse. I liked that the story took place on a remote horse farm. It showed Bastion's connection to animals and worked for when Oliver was in his swan form.
Throughout 90%-95% of the book Oliver is either mute or in swan form. While they work out somewhat a method of communication, I think I would have enjoyed the book a LOT better without the mute story line. It's not like Oliver would have volunteered the information that he was actually a swan any earlier if he'd been able to talk. Their connection through the feather would have worked in either case. I personally didn't see the need for it and for me, it interfered with the men's connection.
There was one thing that bothered me throughout the story. Oliver is mute throughout much of it so the only way to get to know him is through his thoughts. The story goes deep mental POV for both men and there were times that they just seemed a little too emotional for men. That's a fine line that's hard to balance with men and romance. I think this book, because of the situation with Oliver being mute and spending so much time in his head, he lost some of his masculinity. There were a few times that his thoughts just seemed over the top emotionally and that took me out of the story when I paused to question it. I don't think it would have been an issue without the mute story line and I would have enjoyed the book a great deal more.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 3, 2014
Male to male erotic retelling comes to life in a most romantic way, with this enchanting take on The Swan Princess.
Young swan prince Oliver, has lost everything by the time that horseman Bastion discovers him, injured and wrapped in the blanket of his most skiddish mare.
Knowing nothing of the beautiful man before him other than his immediate need for help, and reeling from the undeniable attraction that he feels; Bastion is a man in flux. Haunted by the whispers of what could have been with his "one-time lover" and absentee co-worker Paul; Bastion is determined to keep a level head this time around.
Oliver, a swan shifter of royal blood, had resigned himself to a life of duty without love.
That is until he meets the unassuming Bastion, and experiences the "shared vision" rite known to bond mated pairs of his kind.
The closer that this unlikely pair becomes, the harder their shared feelings be come to fight...and the stronger the magic that binds these star crossed hearts.
Swan Prince is a beautifully expressed erotic work. It is rare to find such a fully developed work in just 149 pages.
Both Oliver and Bastion are given complete back stories, so that by the time they come together, readers are fully acquainted with each in his own right.
Oliver is even allowed to maintain a great number of his animal instincts while in human form, making his otherness a tangible reality.
The most appealing aspect of this read by far however, has to be the romance.
That's right...I said romance!
If it's not the smoldering glances, the tentative touches, and tenderness with which these two shower each other; the utter heart-sickness that both Bastion and Oliver experience when parted is enough to send even the most jaded reader into a full blown swoon.
But hold the phone...
If you think that heart stopping romance and unbridled passion are all that this fairytale are made of; you are most sadly mistaken.
There are also plenty of side-splitting moments to be had courtesy of Oliver's rather eventful shift back into swan form.
Yes, Swan Prince has it all.
Male/male erotic situations, romance, a great shifter story, and...
That "happily ever after" bow that no self respecting fairytale would be caught dead without.
Young swan prince Oliver, has lost everything by the time that horseman Bastion discovers him, injured and wrapped in the blanket of his most skiddish mare.
Knowing nothing of the beautiful man before him other than his immediate need for help, and reeling from the undeniable attraction that he feels; Bastion is a man in flux. Haunted by the whispers of what could have been with his "one-time lover" and absentee co-worker Paul; Bastion is determined to keep a level head this time around.
Oliver, a swan shifter of royal blood, had resigned himself to a life of duty without love.
That is until he meets the unassuming Bastion, and experiences the "shared vision" rite known to bond mated pairs of his kind.
The closer that this unlikely pair becomes, the harder their shared feelings be come to fight...and the stronger the magic that binds these star crossed hearts.
Swan Prince is a beautifully expressed erotic work. It is rare to find such a fully developed work in just 149 pages.
Both Oliver and Bastion are given complete back stories, so that by the time they come together, readers are fully acquainted with each in his own right.
Oliver is even allowed to maintain a great number of his animal instincts while in human form, making his otherness a tangible reality.
The most appealing aspect of this read by far however, has to be the romance.
That's right...I said romance!
If it's not the smoldering glances, the tentative touches, and tenderness with which these two shower each other; the utter heart-sickness that both Bastion and Oliver experience when parted is enough to send even the most jaded reader into a full blown swoon.
But hold the phone...
If you think that heart stopping romance and unbridled passion are all that this fairytale are made of; you are most sadly mistaken.
There are also plenty of side-splitting moments to be had courtesy of Oliver's rather eventful shift back into swan form.
Yes, Swan Prince has it all.
Male/male erotic situations, romance, a great shifter story, and...
That "happily ever after" bow that no self respecting fairytale would be caught dead without.
August 2, 2014
During a flight south, Swan Prince Oliver is shot in the wing, and must find a safe spot to land and heal. When he shifts to human form, however, it is snowing, his arm hurts terribly, and he has no idea where he is.
Bastion is a horse trainer and breeder with a small ranch a distance from other neighbors. Snow and a no-show employee have him angry and frustrated, not to mention alone – again. It’s been a long time since his last relationship, and the last encounter after a few beers and an awkward morning have left him without a hired hand.
A barn check to settle the horses for the night reveal Oliver, naked and bleeding, taking refuge in the spare stall. Bastion is instantly intrigued with the beautiful man, and his instinct to protect, patch and shelter Oliver, rendered mute during the shift, is apparent. For his part, even though Oliver is freaking out a bit with being confined in a house, and unable to shift: he too finds Bastion attractive and intriguing: a first for him.
A bit slow-going early on, the dual point of view perspective from the two main characters, Oliver and Bastion does serve to provide background information that is useful later on. The connection between these two is evident, and they have a sweet way of showing their feelings. Bastion is shocked, but not to insanity, when the truth of WHAT Oliver is, and does everything he can to accommodate and encourage the swan version of Oliver to heal, including filling the bathtub to encourage him to stretch his wings. There is a similarity in the two character’s desire to have and find love everlasting, and their connection as humans leads to some supremely steamy moments, A unique and enchanting novella, this was an interesting introduction to this author’s work.
I received an eBook copy of the title from the publisher for purpose of honest review for The Jeep Diva. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Bastion is a horse trainer and breeder with a small ranch a distance from other neighbors. Snow and a no-show employee have him angry and frustrated, not to mention alone – again. It’s been a long time since his last relationship, and the last encounter after a few beers and an awkward morning have left him without a hired hand.
A barn check to settle the horses for the night reveal Oliver, naked and bleeding, taking refuge in the spare stall. Bastion is instantly intrigued with the beautiful man, and his instinct to protect, patch and shelter Oliver, rendered mute during the shift, is apparent. For his part, even though Oliver is freaking out a bit with being confined in a house, and unable to shift: he too finds Bastion attractive and intriguing: a first for him.
A bit slow-going early on, the dual point of view perspective from the two main characters, Oliver and Bastion does serve to provide background information that is useful later on. The connection between these two is evident, and they have a sweet way of showing their feelings. Bastion is shocked, but not to insanity, when the truth of WHAT Oliver is, and does everything he can to accommodate and encourage the swan version of Oliver to heal, including filling the bathtub to encourage him to stretch his wings. There is a similarity in the two character’s desire to have and find love everlasting, and their connection as humans leads to some supremely steamy moments, A unique and enchanting novella, this was an interesting introduction to this author’s work.
I received an eBook copy of the title from the publisher for purpose of honest review for The Jeep Diva. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
August 4, 2014
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley for a fair and honest review.
When I see a new paranormal author, I'm immediately intrigued and want to read. I love finding a diamond in the ruff and telling others about it. While there were some aspects of Erin Lark's "Swan Prince," that I enjoyed, there were other aspects which did not grab me. Hence, my three star rating.
First, I really loved that the plot added a fairy tale element to the novel. This was one of the major selling points for me as a reader when I read the blurb. The world building in "Swan Prince" was lovely and I would have loved to see more of Oliver's flock. The idea of a swan shifter was unique and original and very much a positive of the book.
But, there were things that I didn't care for and you may or may not agree with me. I'm one of those readers who doesn't like first person POV in any book. So, when I saw that "Swan Prince" had first person POV, I was disappointed. Now sometimes first person is a way the author can draw the reader into the main character's head, but I just didn't find that with this book. Since it went back and forth with Bastion and Oliver's POVs, that was a little jarring for me and threw me out of my 'head space' as it were.
Second, I just wasn't feeling the chemistry between the two main characters. That is a huge selling point for me as a M/M romance reader. I can overlook bad editing and plot points that you can drive holes through, if the chemistry is there. While I liked Bastion and Oliver separately, together I wasn't feeling the heat.
So, while I liked certain thing about "Swan Prince," I cannot give it an true thumbs up. However, I can recommend it to readers who like first person POV and fairy tale elements in their paranormal books.
Lasha's Paranormal M/M Book Reviews
When I see a new paranormal author, I'm immediately intrigued and want to read. I love finding a diamond in the ruff and telling others about it. While there were some aspects of Erin Lark's "Swan Prince," that I enjoyed, there were other aspects which did not grab me. Hence, my three star rating.
First, I really loved that the plot added a fairy tale element to the novel. This was one of the major selling points for me as a reader when I read the blurb. The world building in "Swan Prince" was lovely and I would have loved to see more of Oliver's flock. The idea of a swan shifter was unique and original and very much a positive of the book.
But, there were things that I didn't care for and you may or may not agree with me. I'm one of those readers who doesn't like first person POV in any book. So, when I saw that "Swan Prince" had first person POV, I was disappointed. Now sometimes first person is a way the author can draw the reader into the main character's head, but I just didn't find that with this book. Since it went back and forth with Bastion and Oliver's POVs, that was a little jarring for me and threw me out of my 'head space' as it were.
Second, I just wasn't feeling the chemistry between the two main characters. That is a huge selling point for me as a M/M romance reader. I can overlook bad editing and plot points that you can drive holes through, if the chemistry is there. While I liked Bastion and Oliver separately, together I wasn't feeling the heat.
So, while I liked certain thing about "Swan Prince," I cannot give it an true thumbs up. However, I can recommend it to readers who like first person POV and fairy tale elements in their paranormal books.
Lasha's Paranormal M/M Book Reviews
November 2, 2014
Review posted on Books on Silver Wings blog: http://onsilverwingz.blogspot.com/201...
Oliver, the heir to his flock of swans, sneaks out for a flight but gets shot by a hunter. He lands in Bastion's barn, is stuck in his human form and is mute. Bastion owns the barn and has a troubled relationship with Paul. He hires Paul for work around the barn in exchange for taking care of Paul's horse. Now Paul isn't doing his part of their deal. Bastion tempts Oliver like no other and Oliver struggles between his duty to his flock and his desire.
I really liked the characteristics of these swan shifters. Non-royal swan shifters are stuck in their swan form until the season pasts. The nonroyal swans shift forms only with the royal swan shifters' help. Oliver, the royal swan, was shot by a hunter and seeks shelter in Bastion's barn. Oliver realizes he's stuck in his human form and can't fly back to his flock. After various hardships, Oliver likes Bastion enough to want to stay with him but is also unwilling to abandon his fellow shifters to their fate of being stuck in one form for a whole season.
Overall, the story seems very short. I expected this to be more fairy tale like. The MC's backgrounds aren't very detailed. Any interaction we get are second handed and we don't see how each MC interact with secondary characters. The story mainly focuses on how Bastion accepts Oliver and how they came to be living together.
I still enjoyed it since I like shifter stories but this story didn't amaze me or have any inspirational characters. On the other hand, I liked the particularization of the mate bond, visions, and horses. This was an easy and fast read.
*review copy received in exchange for an honest review*
Oliver, the heir to his flock of swans, sneaks out for a flight but gets shot by a hunter. He lands in Bastion's barn, is stuck in his human form and is mute. Bastion owns the barn and has a troubled relationship with Paul. He hires Paul for work around the barn in exchange for taking care of Paul's horse. Now Paul isn't doing his part of their deal. Bastion tempts Oliver like no other and Oliver struggles between his duty to his flock and his desire.
I really liked the characteristics of these swan shifters. Non-royal swan shifters are stuck in their swan form until the season pasts. The nonroyal swans shift forms only with the royal swan shifters' help. Oliver, the royal swan, was shot by a hunter and seeks shelter in Bastion's barn. Oliver realizes he's stuck in his human form and can't fly back to his flock. After various hardships, Oliver likes Bastion enough to want to stay with him but is also unwilling to abandon his fellow shifters to their fate of being stuck in one form for a whole season.
Overall, the story seems very short. I expected this to be more fairy tale like. The MC's backgrounds aren't very detailed. Any interaction we get are second handed and we don't see how each MC interact with secondary characters. The story mainly focuses on how Bastion accepts Oliver and how they came to be living together.
I still enjoyed it since I like shifter stories but this story didn't amaze me or have any inspirational characters. On the other hand, I liked the particularization of the mate bond, visions, and horses. This was an easy and fast read.
*review copy received in exchange for an honest review*
August 8, 2014
Oliver leaves his guards behind as he heads to the winter migration meeting place for Swan shifters. He is shot and shifts back to his human form. He doesn't have a voice, he is naked, injured and cold. He finds shelter in a barn. Bastion is use to taking care of animals but the naked man in his barn surprises him. He takes him in and they begin to know each other. Oliver writes what he wants to say and Bastion teaches him about the horses he is taking care of. While they are attracted to each other each has his own fear. Bastion doesn't want to get hurt and Oliver knows he has to leave soon. Oliver has to reveal his secret something that he is not supposed to do. They seem worlds apart but they have something special between them.
Oliver doesn't want the role he has to play. He is the prince of the swan shifters and expected to mate and produce the next heir. He is attracted to men and hates that he has to be careful. He has never been with anyone and is lonely. Bastion is a hard worker and has learned from the past to guard his heart. He has a quiet charm to him and is a wonderful man.
Swan shifters is something I have not read about before. I like the idea of them. The author does a great job with them and through Oliver you see how they are ran. The flock needs him on more ways than one and he can't just walk away even when his heart wants to. It is a quick read but has lots of heat to it. They have difference they have to overcome from Oliver not being able to talk to Bastion having to face the fact Oliver is a shifter. Thy have great chemistry and are a good match. Perfect story for those wanting a M/M paranormal story that is a little different.
Oliver doesn't want the role he has to play. He is the prince of the swan shifters and expected to mate and produce the next heir. He is attracted to men and hates that he has to be careful. He has never been with anyone and is lonely. Bastion is a hard worker and has learned from the past to guard his heart. He has a quiet charm to him and is a wonderful man.
Swan shifters is something I have not read about before. I like the idea of them. The author does a great job with them and through Oliver you see how they are ran. The flock needs him on more ways than one and he can't just walk away even when his heart wants to. It is a quick read but has lots of heat to it. They have difference they have to overcome from Oliver not being able to talk to Bastion having to face the fact Oliver is a shifter. Thy have great chemistry and are a good match. Perfect story for those wanting a M/M paranormal story that is a little different.
August 15, 2014
3.5 stars
“Swan Prince” by Erin Lark is a m/m paranormal story which features Oliver, a swan shapeshifter, who is injured and seeks refuge in the barn of a compassionate man named Bastion who shows and boards horses and cares for rescued ones. The appearance of a naked mute man with an injured shoulder is disconcerting to Bastion but even more disturbing is his sense of connection to Oliver, which he fights against since he senses that the other man’s presence is only going to be temporary at best. Oliver must find a way to juggle his obligations to his flock with the leanings of his heart but his biggest obstacle may be finding a way to share his well-guarded secret with a human who may not accept him for who he truly is.
This sensual paranormal story features two intriguing males who each have plenty of obstacles to overcome and it was delightful to watch their relationship flourish, particularly combined with the evolution of Oliver’s interactions with the mare, Kiba. There are entertaining twists on the standard tales of shapeshifters but a few of the details are a bit murky to me, including the issue of the neighbor and the disposition of the leadership of the flock and how the flock exists throughout the year. I'd also like to see the relationship between the two main characters deepen a bit more. I enjoyed reading about a type of shapeshifter that I don’t normally encounter in the stories I have read and I’d be interested in reading more about Oliver and his flock as well as Bastion and his horse farm.
A copy of this title was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
“Swan Prince” by Erin Lark is a m/m paranormal story which features Oliver, a swan shapeshifter, who is injured and seeks refuge in the barn of a compassionate man named Bastion who shows and boards horses and cares for rescued ones. The appearance of a naked mute man with an injured shoulder is disconcerting to Bastion but even more disturbing is his sense of connection to Oliver, which he fights against since he senses that the other man’s presence is only going to be temporary at best. Oliver must find a way to juggle his obligations to his flock with the leanings of his heart but his biggest obstacle may be finding a way to share his well-guarded secret with a human who may not accept him for who he truly is.
This sensual paranormal story features two intriguing males who each have plenty of obstacles to overcome and it was delightful to watch their relationship flourish, particularly combined with the evolution of Oliver’s interactions with the mare, Kiba. There are entertaining twists on the standard tales of shapeshifters but a few of the details are a bit murky to me, including the issue of the neighbor and the disposition of the leadership of the flock and how the flock exists throughout the year. I'd also like to see the relationship between the two main characters deepen a bit more. I enjoyed reading about a type of shapeshifter that I don’t normally encounter in the stories I have read and I’d be interested in reading more about Oliver and his flock as well as Bastion and his horse farm.
A copy of this title was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2014
Find more reviews at Books A to Z
Swan Prince is a gay & modern fairytale retelling of the Swan Princess. Kind of. The Swan Princess is better than this.
If you are looking for an easy, fluffy read than Swan Prince is totally for you. There's HEA, no conflict between the characters, no challenges to speak of. Just easy going all around. The only 'problems' to speak of were the ones of a wishy-washy prince, communication skills and 'holy crap you're really a swan?' I thought the author lost a potential plot line early on. The story starts off with Oliver, the swan prince, being shot by a hunter. This hunter never makes a reappearance. Really? He didn't chase after his kill or his hunting dogs didn't? C'mon. And, psh, I dunno, maybe this novel could have used something like an obstacle or villain to help it out.
I guess I was expecting more out of a book. If you want something to read to pass the time that you don't really have to think about, Swan Prince is perfect. If you want something challenging or thought-provoking... move along.
I have to say this though. The way Swan Prince ended left it open for a possible great sequel. The characters and story were interesting enough that if a sequel were written I think I would pick it up.
Swan Prince is a gay & modern fairytale retelling of the Swan Princess. Kind of. The Swan Princess is better than this.
If you are looking for an easy, fluffy read than Swan Prince is totally for you. There's HEA, no conflict between the characters, no challenges to speak of. Just easy going all around. The only 'problems' to speak of were the ones of a wishy-washy prince, communication skills and 'holy crap you're really a swan?' I thought the author lost a potential plot line early on. The story starts off with Oliver, the swan prince, being shot by a hunter. This hunter never makes a reappearance. Really? He didn't chase after his kill or his hunting dogs didn't? C'mon. And, psh, I dunno, maybe this novel could have used something like an obstacle or villain to help it out.
I guess I was expecting more out of a book. If you want something to read to pass the time that you don't really have to think about, Swan Prince is perfect. If you want something challenging or thought-provoking... move along.
I have to say this though. The way Swan Prince ended left it open for a possible great sequel. The characters and story were interesting enough that if a sequel were written I think I would pick it up.
November 16, 2014
2.5 stars
Swan Prince tells the story of Oliver, a swan shifter who is also the Prince of his flock. When he is flying on his own, migrating south for the winter, he is shot by a hunter and crashes into the ground. Rescued by Bastion, they soon fall for each other. But Oliver is trapped between his passion for Bastion and his duties to his flock. Will he go back to the place where he belongs, or with he stay with the man he loves?
Same old, same old. Swan Prince is entertaining but not memorable. The two main characters feel attracted to each other almost immediately, try to avoid having sex in order to prevent the unavoidable pain which comes after departure, give in to their passion and end with a broken heart which is soon healed by the reunion at the end (always the HEA). The story is simple and I think it could have benefited from a bit more background and psychological development of the characters. They are depicted in such a perfunctory way that it is not enough to gain the reader’s sympathy. Also, the time in their relationship when Oliver is stuck in his swan form and obliged to live with Bastion could have been hilarious had it been the writer’s purpose. Anyway, the book is ok. I would not consider it a waste of time, but I don’t think I’ll re-read it any time soon. Middling.
Swan Prince tells the story of Oliver, a swan shifter who is also the Prince of his flock. When he is flying on his own, migrating south for the winter, he is shot by a hunter and crashes into the ground. Rescued by Bastion, they soon fall for each other. But Oliver is trapped between his passion for Bastion and his duties to his flock. Will he go back to the place where he belongs, or with he stay with the man he loves?
Same old, same old. Swan Prince is entertaining but not memorable. The two main characters feel attracted to each other almost immediately, try to avoid having sex in order to prevent the unavoidable pain which comes after departure, give in to their passion and end with a broken heart which is soon healed by the reunion at the end (always the HEA). The story is simple and I think it could have benefited from a bit more background and psychological development of the characters. They are depicted in such a perfunctory way that it is not enough to gain the reader’s sympathy. Also, the time in their relationship when Oliver is stuck in his swan form and obliged to live with Bastion could have been hilarious had it been the writer’s purpose. Anyway, the book is ok. I would not consider it a waste of time, but I don’t think I’ll re-read it any time soon. Middling.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2014
This was a very enjoyable story. I haven't seen any swan shifters (at least not that I remember) so this one really caught my eye. The lore is pretty basic, but it is also unique. Oliver is royalty in his flock and finds it stifling. When he takes off on his own and gets shot down, he is rescued and patched up - in mute human form - by Bastion (love that name).
Bastion has an old soul. He is more comfortable with his horses than he is with people - perfectly content to live out in the middle of nowhere and take care of his equine charges. Until he discovers a naked man in the barn. Since Oliver can't talk they get to know each other through gestures and written notes at first. Somehow, even with this very basic form of "talking" they get to know each other quite well.
Oliver is torn though. He knows he has responsibilities to his flock, but he can't seem to walk away from the handsome man that has become a part of his life. I have found that M/M romances can be some of the more emotional ones, and this one delivered on that part. I loved both men, and wanted so much for them to find a way to be with each other.
*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*
Bastion has an old soul. He is more comfortable with his horses than he is with people - perfectly content to live out in the middle of nowhere and take care of his equine charges. Until he discovers a naked man in the barn. Since Oliver can't talk they get to know each other through gestures and written notes at first. Somehow, even with this very basic form of "talking" they get to know each other quite well.
Oliver is torn though. He knows he has responsibilities to his flock, but he can't seem to walk away from the handsome man that has become a part of his life. I have found that M/M romances can be some of the more emotional ones, and this one delivered on that part. I loved both men, and wanted so much for them to find a way to be with each other.
*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*
August 4, 2014
A swan prince and a rancher have a chance for true happiness if they can overcome their differences in this charming and different m/m shifter romance. After being injured in swan form, Oliver finds shelter in a barn. Caring for his horses, Bastion finds a naked man in his barn. When passion flares between them, can they overcome their differences or will the swan prince fly south?
This fast paced plot keeps readers intrigued with suspense, drama and romance. The author describes the story with well written scenes and details that capture the imagination and the strong compelling characters are easily understood and draw the reader deeper into the story.
The attraction between Bastion and Oliver radiates from every page and the sex scenes are hot and steamy, but the relationship has a few problems. The author can’t help but get caught up in the drama as Oliver who is wounded and unable to talk tries to communicate with Bastion who has to find a way to accept who and what Oliver is
The author has created a charming and captivating paranormal romance with a refreshingly different type of shifter and unique elements that makes even more interesting. And even though it’s a little too short, it is certainly enjoyable and entertaining.
This fast paced plot keeps readers intrigued with suspense, drama and romance. The author describes the story with well written scenes and details that capture the imagination and the strong compelling characters are easily understood and draw the reader deeper into the story.
The attraction between Bastion and Oliver radiates from every page and the sex scenes are hot and steamy, but the relationship has a few problems. The author can’t help but get caught up in the drama as Oliver who is wounded and unable to talk tries to communicate with Bastion who has to find a way to accept who and what Oliver is
The author has created a charming and captivating paranormal romance with a refreshingly different type of shifter and unique elements that makes even more interesting. And even though it’s a little too short, it is certainly enjoyable and entertaining.
August 5, 2014
I enjoy shifter tales. And it's rare to find one with a swan, so I was really happy to receive this book. Oliver and Bastion were great characters to spend time with. The story is told through first person POV from each of their perspectives. While normally this would be disorienting, I think the choice was perfect given the fact that Oliver can't talk for most of the book.
The one issue I had with the book was the recurring use of the world talons when Oliver is a swan. It jarred me out of the book because as far as I know, swans have webbed feet. Yes, the might have little claws at the end, but when I think of talons I think of eagles and hawks.
I liked the character interactions, and I found it interesting that even though swan shifters are real, Oliver points out that werewolves are not. Interesting.
Would have liked more background on the swans, though. What do they do when they're human? Do they lead regular lives and then fly south? This story could have been a full length book and I would have devoured it and that would have upped the stars to five.
The one issue I had with the book was the recurring use of the world talons when Oliver is a swan. It jarred me out of the book because as far as I know, swans have webbed feet. Yes, the might have little claws at the end, but when I think of talons I think of eagles and hawks.
I liked the character interactions, and I found it interesting that even though swan shifters are real, Oliver points out that werewolves are not. Interesting.
Would have liked more background on the swans, though. What do they do when they're human? Do they lead regular lives and then fly south? This story could have been a full length book and I would have devoured it and that would have upped the stars to five.
August 27, 2014
I received an ARC copy via Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I've read a lot of shifter romances, both M/F and M/M. I've come to love shifter stories, but they're not always unique enough to hold my attention. I had high hopes for this one, especially after reading the first chapter. Oliver's flight and his injury had me curious for more. Bastian's gentle nature and their first meeting really interested me and I began to get invested in their characters.
And then it just fell flat. The characters didn't develop any further and there was no story arc. The situations the characters were placed in were forced and unrealistic. And not much happened. I don't mean sexytimes. There was plenty of that and I ended up skipping them eventually. Been there, read that.
I wanted more tension, more character development, and more of a plot. This one just didn't do it for me.
I've read a lot of shifter romances, both M/F and M/M. I've come to love shifter stories, but they're not always unique enough to hold my attention. I had high hopes for this one, especially after reading the first chapter. Oliver's flight and his injury had me curious for more. Bastian's gentle nature and their first meeting really interested me and I began to get invested in their characters.
And then it just fell flat. The characters didn't develop any further and there was no story arc. The situations the characters were placed in were forced and unrealistic. And not much happened. I don't mean sexytimes. There was plenty of that and I ended up skipping them eventually. Been there, read that.
I wanted more tension, more character development, and more of a plot. This one just didn't do it for me.
August 5, 2014
It's a bit strange describing this m/m paranormal read as cute but that's my vision of it. Oliver is a swan shifter who on his flight to warmer climate with his flock gets shot and needs to shift back to human form to heal. Bastion owns a horse ranch and finds a naked man in his horse barn with an injury that is fairly deep. He takes him in to heal while perplexed onhow he came to be there in a snow storm. aduring his shift Oliver lost his ability to speak yet they manage to find ways to converse.
They share a mutual attraction and then a bed. When the time comes for Oliver to return to his flock emotions are intense. There is no cliff hanger but there is a HEA.
It was worth the read with two interesting characters along with one fiesty horse.
They share a mutual attraction and then a bed. When the time comes for Oliver to return to his flock emotions are intense. There is no cliff hanger but there is a HEA.
It was worth the read with two interesting characters along with one fiesty horse.
February 10, 2015
Swan and human
This is a different shifter type. A (Prince) Swan shifter. No one knows about them. The book describes there shifting cycle pretty well.
Oliver, the Prince, gets shot in the wing while he is migrating south. Which is how he ends up a an isolated horse ranch in the dead of winter. Only one person lives there, hottie Bastion.
Bastion is a kind hearted man who takes in the mysterious, handsome, mute man and patches him up. They have a special connection they both fight for different reasons.
Overall, this book was good. I think if there was a sequel or if was lengthen a bit more, it would have flowed a little bit better at the end, which felt rushed.
This is a different shifter type. A (Prince) Swan shifter. No one knows about them. The book describes there shifting cycle pretty well.
Oliver, the Prince, gets shot in the wing while he is migrating south. Which is how he ends up a an isolated horse ranch in the dead of winter. Only one person lives there, hottie Bastion.
Bastion is a kind hearted man who takes in the mysterious, handsome, mute man and patches him up. They have a special connection they both fight for different reasons.
Overall, this book was good. I think if there was a sequel or if was lengthen a bit more, it would have flowed a little bit better at the end, which felt rushed.
August 5, 2014
The swan prince is a shifter romance between swan shifter Oliver and farmer Bastian. Oliver is shot by a hunter and he is rescued and patched up by Bastian. While healing Oliver is mute, but he develops a way to communicate with Bastian. They are attracted to each and eventually Bastian learns that Oliver is a swan shifter. Oliver knows that Bastian is his mate, but as a human he won't be able to join him when he returns to his flock.
The story is set up like a classic fairy tale, but between two men. I enjoyed the happy ending, but skimmed over the sex scenes.
I was given a free copy for an honest review.
The story is set up like a classic fairy tale, but between two men. I enjoyed the happy ending, but skimmed over the sex scenes.
I was given a free copy for an honest review.
February 14, 2015
A quick, sweet read :) I enjoyed the idea of a swan shifter, but wish there was a little more to the story. I would have liked to see Oliver interacting with the rest of his flock, to see their reaction to learning that their prince wanted a life with a human, but it was so cute when Bastion mentions Oliver sleeping on a pillow beside him in swan form, then picking him up and putting him in the bathtub to help him recover and shift :) I'm glad I picked this story up and would recommend it as an interesting shifter story
March 5, 2017
A quick, enjoyable read. I don't really read shifter books, but because the focus was on one shifter and not the whole pack/flock/what have you, I really liked it.
Someone mentioned that the pace was slow and that there was far too much emphasis on the caring of the horses, but I found that that wasn't the case. The pace was nice and steady, and the horses were a part of Bastion's life, so of course they played a large role, but they definitely didn't hinder the plot. In fact, I thought they played a great role in Oliver's character development.
Someone mentioned that the pace was slow and that there was far too much emphasis on the caring of the horses, but I found that that wasn't the case. The pace was nice and steady, and the horses were a part of Bastion's life, so of course they played a large role, but they definitely didn't hinder the plot. In fact, I thought they played a great role in Oliver's character development.
October 18, 2015
★★★ = It wasn't bad but it wasn't good. It was just okay.
PROS:
✔ Short n' sweet.
✔ Hot sex scenes.
✔ Good mix of fantasy with swan shifters (for a change).
✔ Simple story and easy to follow plot.
✔ Hurt-comfort and nurse-back-to-health themes.
CONS:
✘ Instant love.
✘ No real depth or emotional attachment to the characters.
✘ Predictable.
✘ A tad boring, at times.
PROS:
✔ Short n' sweet.
✔ Hot sex scenes.
✔ Good mix of fantasy with swan shifters (for a change).
✔ Simple story and easy to follow plot.
✔ Hurt-comfort and nurse-back-to-health themes.
CONS:
✘ Instant love.
✘ No real depth or emotional attachment to the characters.
✘ Predictable.
✘ A tad boring, at times.
October 22, 2014
A cute story with a different look at shifters. The swan part was cool as well as how and why they shift.
I did enjoy the story but I can't say it was something to get excited about. No drama, a lot of angst and some pretty good sexy scenes. There is nothing really wrong with it I just can't bring myself to rate it any higher simply because, as I said, it's not something to get excited about.
I did enjoy the story but I can't say it was something to get excited about. No drama, a lot of angst and some pretty good sexy scenes. There is nothing really wrong with it I just can't bring myself to rate it any higher simply because, as I said, it's not something to get excited about.
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