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Holloway Pack #5
Cornered
There is an alternate cover edition for this ASIN here.
Daniel Larsen is playing a dangerous game, and he doesn't even know it.
A two-wheeled speedster. A little redhead in a bar. Evenings spent away from his pack. Innocent enough for most, but for Danny, the combination leads down a path of destruction and straight to a hell he doesn’t even see coming.
Entangled in a nightmare that started with his own brother and the cat he brought into their home, Dan’s driving himself toward a solitary existence—except for the curvaceous Olivia Fanella. Seduced by his new companion, and happy to ignore the divide growing between himself and the pack, Danny is oblivious to the trap being laid out for him.
Before long, Danny's integrity gets questioned. His loyalty gets questioned. Hell, he even questions himself.
On top of that, just when he believes life might be going a little better, he gets served the roughest shot he could never have imagined—not even in his worst nightmares—and Danny has no idea how to come back from a hit like that.
**Cornered contains scenes that some readers might find upsetting**
Daniel Larsen is playing a dangerous game, and he doesn't even know it.
A two-wheeled speedster. A little redhead in a bar. Evenings spent away from his pack. Innocent enough for most, but for Danny, the combination leads down a path of destruction and straight to a hell he doesn’t even see coming.
Entangled in a nightmare that started with his own brother and the cat he brought into their home, Dan’s driving himself toward a solitary existence—except for the curvaceous Olivia Fanella. Seduced by his new companion, and happy to ignore the divide growing between himself and the pack, Danny is oblivious to the trap being laid out for him.
Before long, Danny's integrity gets questioned. His loyalty gets questioned. Hell, he even questions himself.
On top of that, just when he believes life might be going a little better, he gets served the roughest shot he could never have imagined—not even in his worst nightmares—and Danny has no idea how to come back from a hit like that.
**Cornered contains scenes that some readers might find upsetting**
ebook
First published May 30, 2016
2 people are currently reading
72 people want to read
About the author
J.A. Belfield
43 books346 followersBest known for her Holloway Pack Stories and The Therapist, J.A. Belfield lives in Solihull, England, with her family, a spoiled dog, and a cat who likes to vomit in unfortunate places.
Once upon a time, she was a little girl with a vivid imagination. Not much has changed in the last forty years.
J.A. Belfield writes paranormal romance, with a second love for urban fantasy. And now she writes saucy romance, too. Because she can. ;)
Once upon a time, she was a little girl with a vivid imagination. Not much has changed in the last forty years.
J.A. Belfield writes paranormal romance, with a second love for urban fantasy. And now she writes saucy romance, too. Because she can. ;)
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
May 31, 2016
It's been a while since the last Holloway Pack book, so I was extremely excited to read CORNERED!! This time, it's Danny's turn to be the focus of the story. Last we saw of the Holloway pack, there was some major tension between the Larsen brothers over Kyle's new relationship...well, when this one starts, things are still pretty tense.
I really love this series, and there have been some pretty dark moments in the previous books, but CORNERED was really dark. Most of the story deals with Danny's internal struggles, and I have to admit, it was hard to read at times. I wavered between wanting to smack some sense into Danny to get him to finally open up and talk to his family, and wanting to just pull him in for a hug. Poor guy. He goes through so much!
I really enjoyed getting back into the world of the Holloway Pack, and I loved getting to see the guys and their mates again. It was like coming home! While I did enjoy Danny's story, it wasn't my favourite of the series. I think Jem and Sean's stories are still my faves just because it's where it all started. In these later books, the world that the pack lives in has changed so much. Their knowledge of the paranormal world has grown, and they've become entrenched in things that they didn't even know existed.
In CORNERED, everything comes crashing down and Danny finds himself in the midst of some pretty horrible stuff. At the same time, he's struggling to make things right with his family⎯his whole life is spiraling downward. He's turned into quite the lone wolf, and during his solitary outings, he finds comfort in Liv, a feisty redhead. She's snarky with him, and calls out all of his crap, which is exactly what Danny needs. I really enjoyed Danny and Liv together. Their dynamics were fantastic, and they had amazing chemistry. I did feel like their relationship was pretty rushed near the conclusion of the story, but I still really loved them together.
As for the plot itself, it was packed full of tension and extremely fast-paced! Danny's brooding does drag the story down a little bit, but I think it was a necessary progression after how things ended in UNNATURAL. There was a lot of unresolved tension and Danny bore the brunt of it. When it comes to this story though, expect the unexpected. It's one of those stories with plenty of twists, and they'll be sure to keep you on the edge of your seat!
I'd definitely recommend CORNERED to fans of the Holloway Pack series, and I'd recommend the series as a whole to fans of paranormal and urban fantasy. I'd like to give a warning though, CORNERED is the darkest Holloway book yet, and Danny encounters some situations that may be triggering to victims of sexual assault. While it is a dark story, I still really enjoyed CORNERED, and I'm looking forward to what happens with Danny and the rest of the Holloway Pack next. Here's hoping for Josh's story next!!! I absolutely love Josh!! Spoiler that isn't really a spoiler...he was listening to Ed Sheeran in CORNERED at one point, and I swear, my heart melted. I'm an Ed fangirl to the max, so that fangirlness definitely spread to Josh a bit there. :P
I really love this series, and there have been some pretty dark moments in the previous books, but CORNERED was really dark. Most of the story deals with Danny's internal struggles, and I have to admit, it was hard to read at times. I wavered between wanting to smack some sense into Danny to get him to finally open up and talk to his family, and wanting to just pull him in for a hug. Poor guy. He goes through so much!
I really enjoyed getting back into the world of the Holloway Pack, and I loved getting to see the guys and their mates again. It was like coming home! While I did enjoy Danny's story, it wasn't my favourite of the series. I think Jem and Sean's stories are still my faves just because it's where it all started. In these later books, the world that the pack lives in has changed so much. Their knowledge of the paranormal world has grown, and they've become entrenched in things that they didn't even know existed.
In CORNERED, everything comes crashing down and Danny finds himself in the midst of some pretty horrible stuff. At the same time, he's struggling to make things right with his family⎯his whole life is spiraling downward. He's turned into quite the lone wolf, and during his solitary outings, he finds comfort in Liv, a feisty redhead. She's snarky with him, and calls out all of his crap, which is exactly what Danny needs. I really enjoyed Danny and Liv together. Their dynamics were fantastic, and they had amazing chemistry. I did feel like their relationship was pretty rushed near the conclusion of the story, but I still really loved them together.
As for the plot itself, it was packed full of tension and extremely fast-paced! Danny's brooding does drag the story down a little bit, but I think it was a necessary progression after how things ended in UNNATURAL. There was a lot of unresolved tension and Danny bore the brunt of it. When it comes to this story though, expect the unexpected. It's one of those stories with plenty of twists, and they'll be sure to keep you on the edge of your seat!
I'd definitely recommend CORNERED to fans of the Holloway Pack series, and I'd recommend the series as a whole to fans of paranormal and urban fantasy. I'd like to give a warning though, CORNERED is the darkest Holloway book yet, and Danny encounters some situations that may be triggering to victims of sexual assault. While it is a dark story, I still really enjoyed CORNERED, and I'm looking forward to what happens with Danny and the rest of the Holloway Pack next. Here's hoping for Josh's story next!!! I absolutely love Josh!! Spoiler that isn't really a spoiler...he was listening to Ed Sheeran in CORNERED at one point, and I swear, my heart melted. I'm an Ed fangirl to the max, so that fangirlness definitely spread to Josh a bit there. :P
June 16, 2016
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads.
I was really eager to jump back into the HOLLOWAY PACK universe after a two-year hiatus, and having previously enjoyed Kyle Larsen’s story in book 4, UNNATURAL, the odds of me gelling with the younger Larsen brother as well seemed good. Regrettably, Danny came off as a petulant child incapable of understanding that there’s no “I” in team, and consequently CORNERED offered next to no character growth, and a second rate HEA.
The plot aligned somewhat with the preceding installment, so I was happy that Ethan, Brooke, Kyle and Gabe finally got some closure even though the means was kinda inadequate given the level of torture that they, and now Danny have endured. This was probably the darkest tome of the series, and other than boasting one impressively long lovemaking session, I found that the pacing was more sluggish than I would have liked.
Larsen was a walking disaster in this novel; from the immature way he dealt with his brother’s matehood, to his substance abuse, to his selfish refusal to follow his alpha’s orders which subsequently endangered the entire pack, to his irresponsible sexual relations. I wish I could say that he realized the error of his ways in the end, but it was more of a case of him left with no choice after painting himself into a corner.
There’s one graphic scene that some readers might find offensive however personally, after everything that Danny did in this volume, I was appeased that he suffered severe consequences for his actions. There were also a number of inconsistencies in this title; the protagonist pleaded ignorance a lot, but he’s a werewolf, how did he not smell the drugs in the cakes? Or that the blonde was a supe? Or that Liv was ?
CORNERED wasn’t the best that the HOLLOWAY PACK has to offer.
I was really eager to jump back into the HOLLOWAY PACK universe after a two-year hiatus, and having previously enjoyed Kyle Larsen’s story in book 4, UNNATURAL, the odds of me gelling with the younger Larsen brother as well seemed good. Regrettably, Danny came off as a petulant child incapable of understanding that there’s no “I” in team, and consequently CORNERED offered next to no character growth, and a second rate HEA.
The plot aligned somewhat with the preceding installment, so I was happy that Ethan, Brooke, Kyle and Gabe finally got some closure even though the means was kinda inadequate given the level of torture that they, and now Danny have endured. This was probably the darkest tome of the series, and other than boasting one impressively long lovemaking session, I found that the pacing was more sluggish than I would have liked.
Larsen was a walking disaster in this novel; from the immature way he dealt with his brother’s matehood, to his substance abuse, to his selfish refusal to follow his alpha’s orders which subsequently endangered the entire pack, to his irresponsible sexual relations. I wish I could say that he realized the error of his ways in the end, but it was more of a case of him left with no choice after painting himself into a corner.
There’s one graphic scene that some readers might find offensive however personally, after everything that Danny did in this volume, I was appeased that he suffered severe consequences for his actions. There were also a number of inconsistencies in this title; the protagonist pleaded ignorance a lot, but he’s a werewolf, how did he not smell the drugs in the cakes? Or that the blonde was a supe? Or that Liv was ?
CORNERED wasn’t the best that the HOLLOWAY PACK has to offer.
Want to read
September 25, 2020INITIAL THOUGHTS
Of Course I'm sooo looking forward to the latest book in the Holloway Pack Series. I would say this series as a "must read" series for me now. I've read all the main books and most of the novella's too. I am definitely am a firm fan of the Holloway Pack and am looking forward to learning more about Daniel Larsen, I guess the book being centred on him means maybe he is going to find "the one"/ "his mate", as well as catching up with the rest of the pack and their mates too.
THOUGHTS WHILST READING
6% who/,what is conspiring to stop me reading this book? first kindle app refuses to work on my tablet then get out kindle touch and that stops working and just shows me blank pages grrrr"
32% What is really happening at the meetings between Connor and Mahgon? Will Mahgon see the test of the family? Can she somehow fit in with the pack? Also is Liv 'the one' for Danny? How would/could a relationship ever work between Danny & Liv? Will there be more additions to the pack/family?
48% Love the fact Li is a normal size, everyday, type of girl.
REVIEW
I received a free e-copy of this book directly from the author J.A. Belfield, (I am also part of her street team which is called "J.A. Belfield's Hollerer's") in exchange for my honest review.
The cover shows what looks like a late night meeting between a couple in the woods. The cover also features a motorbike on it too.Would the cover of this book make me pick it up from a bookstore shelf? Yes, I would pick the book up on just my first impressions of the cover, to read the blurb and learn more about the book.
This book begins with Daniel Larsen feeling angry and irritated by the noisy lovers, Kyle and Brook. Much to Daniel's annoyance his brother Kyle and his "mate" Brook have not moved their relationship out of the honeymoon phase. Unfortunately for Dan their room is next to his so he can hear all their "bedroom antics" even without the special werewolf super hearing he has! It is not just that Kyle and Brook are making out all the time, Daniel still has reservations and negative feelings about Brook being a cat shifter. To avoid listening to, or looking at the love birds Daniel is going out more and more. Staying out late, drinking. To be fair his father understands and has reached out to his son to get him to open up and talk about his irritation, to try and come to a solution. Having a cat shifter as part of the pack is new territory for all the pack!
Daniel has even taken to going around to the pack alpha's house to sleep just to get some rest. He has been staying round there so much he has his own routine with Sean and Jem's baby daughter, Lia. He quite happily snuggles up in the spare bed and gives Lia her bottles.Jem and Sean are being as accommodating as possible but Sean does warn Daniel not to come into his daughter Lia's room to stay over and feed her whilst smelling like a brewery.
It's whilst escaping all the "love" at home that Daniel rides his motorbike to the "Double H" as the locals call it. It's actual name is "The Hang & Hide" and that's exactly what Daniel does there, "hangout" and "hide" from those at home!
Whilst hanging out there he meets a mysterious young woman with lots of unruly red hair. She is different from the other women in the bar, she isn't looking for a guy, she just sits quietly in one of the booths writing. Later in the book this red head is described as a curvier read headed Marilyn Monroe. Which really helped me to visualize Liv easily.
The other woman that catches Daniels eye, is what he would describe as a blonde bombshell who is sooo obvious flirting with any and every guy in the place meaning the blonde is certainly not Dan's type at all!
Daniel's relationships at home and with the rest of the pack are definitely suffering from all his new habits of staying as far away and drinking more alcohol. It's not like he really deep down hates his brother Kyle or even Brook. The problem is Brook is a cat, and a newcomer to the pack and of course she is taking Kyle's attention too when Daniel has been used to having access to his brother as a pack member. Kyle's relationship with Brook has made him less available and/or interested in hanging out with his brother Daniel.
Daniel, like the other males in the Holloway Pack are very gentlemanly, so after a long night out, returning to his motorbike and see's the blonde from the Hang and Hide being harassed. Naturally Daniel goes to her rescue. . . but at the very same time this gentlemanly act land him in much more trouble than he could even ever imagine. An old enemy from the Pack's past is back and this time she wants to make sure she gets herself a werewolf to do whatever she pleases with. The Pack end up calling in favours from other supernaturals that they would prefer not to deal with. When someone important to Dan is in danger Brooke doesn't hesitate to offer her help and go above and beyond to ensure this "person" is kept safe. Daniel then realises Brooke is hear to stay and totally loyal to both his brother and the pack as a whole. However now Daniel feel's responsible for the latest danger that has arrived to test the pack. Daniel attempts to be the hero and keep his pack brother out of danger but things go badly wrong and Daniel is attacked in a way he will never forget. Daniel finds himself in a very serious, humiliating and highly dangerous situation. In fact it's right about the time he is quite literally tied up that he thinks about his recent behaviour and see's things in a different light. Without going into explicit detail Daniel is held prisoner and is made to produce certain "things" against his will that are then taken and are to be used to cause even more danger to the supernatural society. I can't really say much more without giving out super spoilers. The subject is an unusual, hypersensitive subject, that is both well written and portrayed very well by the author.
What I can say is that in my opinion it will take a long time for Daniel to come to terms with what happened to him.
There is also a more pleasant face from the past that reconnects with the pack, their mothers sister, I think we will be seeing more of her in the future. It will be interesting to learn how she will fit into pack life and what she will and will not be told about her family.
I guess I should address the fact that these books are rather steamy in places and the "thing" that happens to Daniel is told in an explicit way but I also want to say that it is a genuine crucial part of the plot. I admit that the Holloway Pack Series can be a little steamy but again these scenes are always tastefully done and pat of a larger plot.
Did I enjoy the book? Yes, as I always do enjoy the Holloway Pack Series. Would I recommend the book? Yes, I'd recommend this series to shapeshifter/werewolf genre fans, especially to those who have read and enjoyed Kelley Armstrong's Women Of the Otherworld Series, Rachel Vincent's Shifter's Series, Karina Espinosa's Mackenzie Grey Series or Amanda Carlson's Jessica McClain Series. These are all fantastic shifter books.
Do I want to read another book in this series? Easy answer to this one Yes! Of course I do. Would I read other titles by this author? I have read other titles by J.A. Belfield and intend to keep reading them as long as she keeps writing them!
FINAL THOUGHTS
*Oh wow, you''ve done it once again J.A. Belfield yet another fantastic installment in the Holloway Pack Series! Just brilliant!
Of Course I'm sooo looking forward to the latest book in the Holloway Pack Series. I would say this series as a "must read" series for me now. I've read all the main books and most of the novella's too. I am definitely am a firm fan of the Holloway Pack and am looking forward to learning more about Daniel Larsen, I guess the book being centred on him means maybe he is going to find "the one"/ "his mate", as well as catching up with the rest of the pack and their mates too.
THOUGHTS WHILST READING
6% who/,what is conspiring to stop me reading this book? first kindle app refuses to work on my tablet then get out kindle touch and that stops working and just shows me blank pages grrrr"
32% What is really happening at the meetings between Connor and Mahgon? Will Mahgon see the test of the family? Can she somehow fit in with the pack? Also is Liv 'the one' for Danny? How would/could a relationship ever work between Danny & Liv? Will there be more additions to the pack/family?
48% Love the fact Li is a normal size, everyday, type of girl.
REVIEW
I received a free e-copy of this book directly from the author J.A. Belfield, (I am also part of her street team which is called "J.A. Belfield's Hollerer's") in exchange for my honest review.
The cover shows what looks like a late night meeting between a couple in the woods. The cover also features a motorbike on it too.Would the cover of this book make me pick it up from a bookstore shelf? Yes, I would pick the book up on just my first impressions of the cover, to read the blurb and learn more about the book.
This book begins with Daniel Larsen feeling angry and irritated by the noisy lovers, Kyle and Brook. Much to Daniel's annoyance his brother Kyle and his "mate" Brook have not moved their relationship out of the honeymoon phase. Unfortunately for Dan their room is next to his so he can hear all their "bedroom antics" even without the special werewolf super hearing he has! It is not just that Kyle and Brook are making out all the time, Daniel still has reservations and negative feelings about Brook being a cat shifter. To avoid listening to, or looking at the love birds Daniel is going out more and more. Staying out late, drinking. To be fair his father understands and has reached out to his son to get him to open up and talk about his irritation, to try and come to a solution. Having a cat shifter as part of the pack is new territory for all the pack!
Daniel has even taken to going around to the pack alpha's house to sleep just to get some rest. He has been staying round there so much he has his own routine with Sean and Jem's baby daughter, Lia. He quite happily snuggles up in the spare bed and gives Lia her bottles.Jem and Sean are being as accommodating as possible but Sean does warn Daniel not to come into his daughter Lia's room to stay over and feed her whilst smelling like a brewery.
It's whilst escaping all the "love" at home that Daniel rides his motorbike to the "Double H" as the locals call it. It's actual name is "The Hang & Hide" and that's exactly what Daniel does there, "hangout" and "hide" from those at home!
Whilst hanging out there he meets a mysterious young woman with lots of unruly red hair. She is different from the other women in the bar, she isn't looking for a guy, she just sits quietly in one of the booths writing. Later in the book this red head is described as a curvier read headed Marilyn Monroe. Which really helped me to visualize Liv easily.
The other woman that catches Daniels eye, is what he would describe as a blonde bombshell who is sooo obvious flirting with any and every guy in the place meaning the blonde is certainly not Dan's type at all!
Daniel's relationships at home and with the rest of the pack are definitely suffering from all his new habits of staying as far away and drinking more alcohol. It's not like he really deep down hates his brother Kyle or even Brook. The problem is Brook is a cat, and a newcomer to the pack and of course she is taking Kyle's attention too when Daniel has been used to having access to his brother as a pack member. Kyle's relationship with Brook has made him less available and/or interested in hanging out with his brother Daniel.
Daniel, like the other males in the Holloway Pack are very gentlemanly, so after a long night out, returning to his motorbike and see's the blonde from the Hang and Hide being harassed. Naturally Daniel goes to her rescue. . . but at the very same time this gentlemanly act land him in much more trouble than he could even ever imagine. An old enemy from the Pack's past is back and this time she wants to make sure she gets herself a werewolf to do whatever she pleases with. The Pack end up calling in favours from other supernaturals that they would prefer not to deal with. When someone important to Dan is in danger Brooke doesn't hesitate to offer her help and go above and beyond to ensure this "person" is kept safe. Daniel then realises Brooke is hear to stay and totally loyal to both his brother and the pack as a whole. However now Daniel feel's responsible for the latest danger that has arrived to test the pack. Daniel attempts to be the hero and keep his pack brother out of danger but things go badly wrong and Daniel is attacked in a way he will never forget. Daniel finds himself in a very serious, humiliating and highly dangerous situation. In fact it's right about the time he is quite literally tied up that he thinks about his recent behaviour and see's things in a different light. Without going into explicit detail Daniel is held prisoner and is made to produce certain "things" against his will that are then taken and are to be used to cause even more danger to the supernatural society. I can't really say much more without giving out super spoilers. The subject is an unusual, hypersensitive subject, that is both well written and portrayed very well by the author.
What I can say is that in my opinion it will take a long time for Daniel to come to terms with what happened to him.
There is also a more pleasant face from the past that reconnects with the pack, their mothers sister, I think we will be seeing more of her in the future. It will be interesting to learn how she will fit into pack life and what she will and will not be told about her family.
I guess I should address the fact that these books are rather steamy in places and the "thing" that happens to Daniel is told in an explicit way but I also want to say that it is a genuine crucial part of the plot. I admit that the Holloway Pack Series can be a little steamy but again these scenes are always tastefully done and pat of a larger plot.
Did I enjoy the book? Yes, as I always do enjoy the Holloway Pack Series. Would I recommend the book? Yes, I'd recommend this series to shapeshifter/werewolf genre fans, especially to those who have read and enjoyed Kelley Armstrong's Women Of the Otherworld Series, Rachel Vincent's Shifter's Series, Karina Espinosa's Mackenzie Grey Series or Amanda Carlson's Jessica McClain Series. These are all fantastic shifter books.
Do I want to read another book in this series? Easy answer to this one Yes! Of course I do. Would I read other titles by this author? I have read other titles by J.A. Belfield and intend to keep reading them as long as she keeps writing them!
FINAL THOUGHTS
*Oh wow, you''ve done it once again J.A. Belfield yet another fantastic installment in the Holloway Pack Series! Just brilliant!
May 2, 2016
The Holloway Pack is one of my favorite book families. Ms. Belfield make them seem so real, you often forget they only live only on paper. This is Daniel's story. Danny is the risk taker/trouble maker of the pack. Trouble seems to find him, even when he's doing nothing to deserve it. (Well, except being a jerk to his brother and his new mate.)
Trouble finds him quite a lot in this story, just when one crisis gets resolved, another comes right behind it. You almost think the author has it out for him.
This book is not for the delicate or easily upset. It has hot and spicy scenes that will make you blush and traumatic scenes that are difficult to read because you feel every emotion the character is going through.
Even with the "tough scenes" , I would still recommend this book. All in all, another great read from JA Belfield!
Trouble finds him quite a lot in this story, just when one crisis gets resolved, another comes right behind it. You almost think the author has it out for him.
This book is not for the delicate or easily upset. It has hot and spicy scenes that will make you blush and traumatic scenes that are difficult to read because you feel every emotion the character is going through.
Even with the "tough scenes" , I would still recommend this book. All in all, another great read from JA Belfield!
June 26, 2016
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review
It's been a long time since I read the previous book in this series, but I still easily slipped back into this series. There was enough recap of important plot points where necessary to remind me of what happened. I really enjoyed reading Cornered, the pace was a bit slow at times, but not in a bad way and it was well written and kept my attention. It was so nice to be back into this world again. I liked how we get the sense of community with the pack and continuity through hints of what happened in previous books and knowing more about most of the side characters thanks to knowing their backstory. Although if you want to you could read this one as standalone you just would get the hint to their pasts less and know less about the side characters.
Cornered is Daniel or Danny his story. Daniel gets into a lot of trouble in this book and I really felt sorry for him. It was a bit frustrating sometimes how he got treated like a kid and I know what he did was stupid and dangerous for the pack, but it still felt like the others were a bit too harsh on him. And yes Daniel makes his share of not so smart decisions as well in this book, but not all of what happened to him was his fault. There were a few small things that didn't fully make sense, some small plot holes or decisions that just didn't seem right. No one was concerned when something happened to Daniel that no one could explain, although he never divulged everything to the pack I still felt it was strange they didn't make a bigger deal out of it, until it was too late. And a few decisions and actions at the end felt a bit off to me.
It starts of with focus on Daniel his life, his evenings spent away form the pack due to his issues with Brook and Kyle. I thought Daniel could've been more forgiving of them and didn't judge them so harshly, but it did make sense how he was hurt and now had trouble dealing with things. The story focused on how he gets into trouble, deals with the pack situation and interacts with Liv.
Only around the 60-70% mark the paranormal aspect got more attention when they land in some supernatural problems. There's a nasty villain in this book, who is pure evil and crazy. Also how did she time things so perfectly and twisted things while things didn't went to her plan, it just seemed like it went a bit too smoothly. I also never fully understood why she did some of the earlier things in the book and what her goal was with that. The reason just didn't seem clear to me and never gets fully explained.
And there is this scene, the one the blurb has a trigger warning for and yes that warning is totally justified in my opinion. That scene enough would've been enough for me to DNF a book if I wasn't that invested and far into the book by then and had enjoyed it up to that point. Because really the scene was that horrifying I wish I hadn't read it. Even skimming over it, I still got to many details and it was way too disturbing for my taste and I also don't get why it had to be in the book. Part of it felt like it was a bit rushed and could've used a bit more fleshing out the details and on the other hand it already was way too dark and disturbing for me, so I was glad it didn't last longer. So yes that part I definitely didn't like. And what happened next was a bit anti climactic in my opinion, part of it seemed to get fixed too easily and the other part was done realistically, but we still don't fully see it through. On the other hand I did like where the book ended, while at the same time I would've liked a bit more story too and see what would happen next.
Daniel is an interesting main character and I liked following his story. I liked getting to know him a bit more as I don't remember much details about him from the previous books, but that also could be because I read those so long ago. He has some trouble with Kyle and his mate and often escaped the house for that reason. I do think that Daniel basically got a lot of bad luck in this book, yes he makes some bad decisions, but mostly the things that happened aren't fully his fault and it just felt like the author put him through a bit too much. It was interesting to see how the pack reacted to what happened and dealt with his behavior and how his time away from the pack gave him the opportunity to meet Liv. This book mostly focuses on Daniel and his story, although we do see the previous main characters and side characters as well, which was fun.
Daniel his relationship with Liv was one of the parts I liked most. I liked the slow build-up and how they just interacted with each other without acting on it at first. I liked their casual sort of meetings at the bar and seeing how it developed into more. There was a stage that felt like it went a bit fast, but that's probably just me. I thought they were a great couple, although I had hoped to learn a bit more about Olivia. And there's one sex scene which lasted almost a whole chapter, definitely impressive how the author wrote that one. Although I did cringe a bit at the fact his brothers were so close by, they never talked about protection or cleaned up in the middle of the multiple rounds. I liked that there was little drama in their relationship, and the drama that wast here felt realistic and not there just for the sake of it. There's also a scene at the end, which got solved pretty nicely. And I liked how it was realistic, but still little drama got involved and I really respected Liv for what she did there and how she handled things.
The book doesn't add much in terms of world building. In fact it's pretty light on actual paranormal scenes. There's only one shifting scene and besides that it is more about the implications of being a werewolf than them actually shifting into one. I do think it worked though and since a recent dolphin shifter series I read that handled the paranormal aspect in this way I have come to appreciate this way of handling the paranormal aspect more. I wasn't a fan of the paranormal trouble they run into at the end as it didn't feel fleshed out enough. I do like how we see how much being a werewolf changes their normal lives and how they live.
To summarize: I really enjoyed this book. It's one of those series that seems to get better with each book. I liked the writing style and the pace was done nicely if a bit slow at times, but not in a bad way. I did feel a bit sorry for Daniel in this book as a lot of bad things happen to him and I thought the pack treater him a bit harshly at times especially as most of it wasn't completely his fault. Daniel does make a few not so smart decisions that land him in trouble. There is one very disturbing scene towards the end, with way too many details for me and even while skimming it was too much for me. It's a good thing I was already committed to finishing the book by then and had enjoyed it so far. I liked getting to know more about Daniel in this book and seeing his relationship with Liv progress. There's little drama and I respected Liv for how she handled things. There's also one impressively long sex scene. I just had hoped to see more of how things go next, but at the same time the ending was well done. There isn't as much focus on the paranormal aspect, but I did like how it was handled. It mostly focuses on the effect of being werewolf while in their human body as opposed to actual shifting. I wasn't a fan of the supernatural problems they run into towards the end as it felt a bit rushed and bad decisions are made, and only added to more bad stuff happening to Daniel. Overall this is a great series and I enjoyed this latest instalment!
It's been a long time since I read the previous book in this series, but I still easily slipped back into this series. There was enough recap of important plot points where necessary to remind me of what happened. I really enjoyed reading Cornered, the pace was a bit slow at times, but not in a bad way and it was well written and kept my attention. It was so nice to be back into this world again. I liked how we get the sense of community with the pack and continuity through hints of what happened in previous books and knowing more about most of the side characters thanks to knowing their backstory. Although if you want to you could read this one as standalone you just would get the hint to their pasts less and know less about the side characters.
Cornered is Daniel or Danny his story. Daniel gets into a lot of trouble in this book and I really felt sorry for him. It was a bit frustrating sometimes how he got treated like a kid and I know what he did was stupid and dangerous for the pack, but it still felt like the others were a bit too harsh on him. And yes Daniel makes his share of not so smart decisions as well in this book, but not all of what happened to him was his fault. There were a few small things that didn't fully make sense, some small plot holes or decisions that just didn't seem right. No one was concerned when something happened to Daniel that no one could explain, although he never divulged everything to the pack I still felt it was strange they didn't make a bigger deal out of it, until it was too late. And a few decisions and actions at the end felt a bit off to me.
It starts of with focus on Daniel his life, his evenings spent away form the pack due to his issues with Brook and Kyle. I thought Daniel could've been more forgiving of them and didn't judge them so harshly, but it did make sense how he was hurt and now had trouble dealing with things. The story focused on how he gets into trouble, deals with the pack situation and interacts with Liv.
Only around the 60-70% mark the paranormal aspect got more attention when they land in some supernatural problems. There's a nasty villain in this book, who is pure evil and crazy. Also how did she time things so perfectly and twisted things while things didn't went to her plan, it just seemed like it went a bit too smoothly. I also never fully understood why she did some of the earlier things in the book and what her goal was with that. The reason just didn't seem clear to me and never gets fully explained.
And there is this scene, the one the blurb has a trigger warning for and yes that warning is totally justified in my opinion. That scene enough would've been enough for me to DNF a book if I wasn't that invested and far into the book by then and had enjoyed it up to that point. Because really the scene was that horrifying I wish I hadn't read it. Even skimming over it, I still got to many details and it was way too disturbing for my taste and I also don't get why it had to be in the book. Part of it felt like it was a bit rushed and could've used a bit more fleshing out the details and on the other hand it already was way too dark and disturbing for me, so I was glad it didn't last longer. So yes that part I definitely didn't like. And what happened next was a bit anti climactic in my opinion, part of it seemed to get fixed too easily and the other part was done realistically, but we still don't fully see it through. On the other hand I did like where the book ended, while at the same time I would've liked a bit more story too and see what would happen next.
Daniel is an interesting main character and I liked following his story. I liked getting to know him a bit more as I don't remember much details about him from the previous books, but that also could be because I read those so long ago. He has some trouble with Kyle and his mate and often escaped the house for that reason. I do think that Daniel basically got a lot of bad luck in this book, yes he makes some bad decisions, but mostly the things that happened aren't fully his fault and it just felt like the author put him through a bit too much. It was interesting to see how the pack reacted to what happened and dealt with his behavior and how his time away from the pack gave him the opportunity to meet Liv. This book mostly focuses on Daniel and his story, although we do see the previous main characters and side characters as well, which was fun.
Daniel his relationship with Liv was one of the parts I liked most. I liked the slow build-up and how they just interacted with each other without acting on it at first. I liked their casual sort of meetings at the bar and seeing how it developed into more. There was a stage that felt like it went a bit fast, but that's probably just me. I thought they were a great couple, although I had hoped to learn a bit more about Olivia. And there's one sex scene which lasted almost a whole chapter, definitely impressive how the author wrote that one. Although I did cringe a bit at the fact his brothers were so close by, they never talked about protection or cleaned up in the middle of the multiple rounds. I liked that there was little drama in their relationship, and the drama that wast here felt realistic and not there just for the sake of it. There's also a scene at the end, which got solved pretty nicely. And I liked how it was realistic, but still little drama got involved and I really respected Liv for what she did there and how she handled things.
The book doesn't add much in terms of world building. In fact it's pretty light on actual paranormal scenes. There's only one shifting scene and besides that it is more about the implications of being a werewolf than them actually shifting into one. I do think it worked though and since a recent dolphin shifter series I read that handled the paranormal aspect in this way I have come to appreciate this way of handling the paranormal aspect more. I wasn't a fan of the paranormal trouble they run into at the end as it didn't feel fleshed out enough. I do like how we see how much being a werewolf changes their normal lives and how they live.
To summarize: I really enjoyed this book. It's one of those series that seems to get better with each book. I liked the writing style and the pace was done nicely if a bit slow at times, but not in a bad way. I did feel a bit sorry for Daniel in this book as a lot of bad things happen to him and I thought the pack treater him a bit harshly at times especially as most of it wasn't completely his fault. Daniel does make a few not so smart decisions that land him in trouble. There is one very disturbing scene towards the end, with way too many details for me and even while skimming it was too much for me. It's a good thing I was already committed to finishing the book by then and had enjoyed it so far. I liked getting to know more about Daniel in this book and seeing his relationship with Liv progress. There's little drama and I respected Liv for how she handled things. There's also one impressively long sex scene. I just had hoped to see more of how things go next, but at the same time the ending was well done. There isn't as much focus on the paranormal aspect, but I did like how it was handled. It mostly focuses on the effect of being werewolf while in their human body as opposed to actual shifting. I wasn't a fan of the supernatural problems they run into towards the end as it felt a bit rushed and bad decisions are made, and only added to more bad stuff happening to Daniel. Overall this is a great series and I enjoyed this latest instalment!
May 30, 2016
I'm one of the very fortunate people who get to beta read for Ms Belfield. Let me tell you how this one went... I had to read it twice, because the first time, I was so into the story, I never even thought to look for plot holes- she didn't have any- or misspellings or even little boo boos. And if you look around you'll see a quote by me describing this book. I wasn't lying with this quote but the book is so much more than that.
First I felt sorry for Danny. I know he was taking the Kyle and Brooke relationship hard but then I was mad because he needed to figure out that mates are just as serious a relationship as brothers. Then I felt sorry because he really was sad that he felt Kyle pushed him away and chose Brooke over him. I know it’s a protection thing but Kyle never tried to help the situation, though I like brooke even more now :) Then I literally cried for him. So, if you hadn't read the last book- SHAME ON YOU- Kyle did something not so nice. Instead of being a man about things, he hid and when the family found out he got hostile and Danny was the one who took the brunt. And then if you remember the crazy biatch from Caged, well you'll remember she never died. And boy does she cause some serious hell for the Holloway pack. Oh my God, I cried. For a guy because Danny seriously broke my heart. I never want even my worst enemy- I don't really have those but still, to go through what Danny did. And Ethan and Kyle- thank you!! For sitting in a truck all night :) Damny owes you for it but I commend you!! Lol!
Now Olivia, I like her tons. She's actually normal, by normal I mean human. No specialties about her except that she's extraordinary in her own right. I think she is perfect for Danny and wait til you get her shocker at the end. Seriously, I whooped out loud when Olivia finally tracked Danny down and laid that little tidbit on him. Oh yeah it's gunna be a wild ride lol! I know that the books coming will be epic. And yes, you will actually see my real name in this book. The author had a contest for naming a character and I won and my character is going to have some serious goodness coming her way in the future- I just know it!! And this last little thing- I've read all kinds of books, and all of Ms Belfield's included, I'm still obsessed with Ethan, but I think Danny and Liv have beaten every other book's sex scene. Not because it's super racy or even majorly erotic, but because it's the most heartfelt and realistic. When the person you are falling for finally gives themselves to the other, it's not going to be perfect or spot on, nerves and insecurities will be there and Ms Belfield captured it beautifully!! And passion- can't forget that part and it's full of passion throughout this whole book!!!
When I sent in my thoughts for beta reading I have Ms B. 5 scenes that made me feel the most, because this one is definitely more emotional than the rest. You'll have to read why. And when you finish, let me know how your jaw dropped so we can discuss this!! The writing skills this woman has is sometimes just awe inspiring. I'm a huge werewolf fan, but Ms B doesn't just focus in being a werewolf, people have friends and family and jobs and responsibility and that makes it so much more real and effective. Hell Danny meets my character at small diner, and sometimes people forget when writing to portray the little things. I love this author. I love this series. And I'm damn sure recommending it!! :) 5 WOLFY PAWS!!!
June 2, 2016
I decided this needed a better review, so here it goes ;)
Cornered was Hot! Of course it was, it was a Holloway pack story. But it had a darker edge. Which I kinda liked, but also kinda didn't. I just want those puppies to be happy!
Danny isn't my favorite wolf. And after thinking about it I figured out why. I don't like secrets, and people keeping secrets. Problems and feeling should be talked about. Especially with family! Especially if not doing that f*cks everything up... I think Danny is selfish and sometimes very stupid, and that's why I just couldn't connect with him...
Liv on the other hand, I definitly could connect with. I've connected the most with her of all the females! And not just because of her red hair, glasses and converse (Mrs Belfield had a picture of me as her inspiration I guess ;)) but also her outlook on life! Her whole attitude just was very familiar to me!
Over all, I loved it, even though the story could need more Ethan. But then, every story ever written can use more Ethan ;)
Cornered was Hot! Of course it was, it was a Holloway pack story. But it had a darker edge. Which I kinda liked, but also kinda didn't. I just want those puppies to be happy!
Danny isn't my favorite wolf. And after thinking about it I figured out why. I don't like secrets, and people keeping secrets. Problems and feeling should be talked about. Especially with family! Especially if not doing that f*cks everything up... I think Danny is selfish and sometimes very stupid, and that's why I just couldn't connect with him...
Liv on the other hand, I definitly could connect with. I've connected the most with her of all the females! And not just because of her red hair, glasses and converse (Mrs Belfield had a picture of me as her inspiration I guess ;)) but also her outlook on life! Her whole attitude just was very familiar to me!
Over all, I loved it, even though the story could need more Ethan. But then, every story ever written can use more Ethan ;)
January 28, 2017
Oh, poor Danny! This story almost seemed like him sulking being a brat for a bit. Then you meet Liv and she is just cute and sweet. It is definitely the darkest one so far and hard to read at times, but a fantastic story! I wanted more of them. Danny's sarcasm is awesome, so I'm glad he started to get better in the end. I am looking forward to more from these wolves!
June 23, 2018
Wow best one yet
Loved this story. I can't wait to read about the other pack members. I love that each book let's you know what's going on with the other members because they are all family
Loved this story. I can't wait to read about the other pack members. I love that each book let's you know what's going on with the other members because they are all family
April 30, 2020
This was definitely a hard, but amazing read because the author puts Danny through so much!! The whole time I was reading it, I was wondering how in the world she was going to pull off a HEA, but she definitely did. Cornered is a definite must read!
April 19, 2021
All 5 books read
I truly loved this series and hated for it to be over. I wanted to get the bonus book for Liv and Danny but there was no link on the screen to select as instructed.
I truly loved this series and hated for it to be over. I wanted to get the bonus book for Liv and Danny but there was no link on the screen to select as instructed.
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