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Alpha Unchained
I left to protect her.
Now she’s mine—and in more danger than ever.
Five years ago, I walked away from everything. My pack. My birthright. And Elena—the only woman I’ve ever loved. I thought staying would destroy her. So I vanished into the shadows and bled for a cause that never gave a damn about me.
But when the cartel came for Wild Hollow, instinct took over. I claimed my mate. I marked her.
Then I disappeared all over again, believing it was the only way to keep her safe.
Now Elena’s pregnant. Newly turned. And caught in a power struggle that could tear this town apart. My pack wants the heir she’s carrying. My cousin wants my throne. And Elena? She doesn’t want anything to do with me.
Too bad. Because she’s mine.
And this time, I’m staying.
I’ll burn the Hollow to the ground before I let anyone take her from me again.
Now she’s mine—and in more danger than ever.
Five years ago, I walked away from everything. My pack. My birthright. And Elena—the only woman I’ve ever loved. I thought staying would destroy her. So I vanished into the shadows and bled for a cause that never gave a damn about me.
But when the cartel came for Wild Hollow, instinct took over. I claimed my mate. I marked her.
Then I disappeared all over again, believing it was the only way to keep her safe.
Now Elena’s pregnant. Newly turned. And caught in a power struggle that could tear this town apart. My pack wants the heir she’s carrying. My cousin wants my throne. And Elena? She doesn’t want anything to do with me.
Too bad. Because she’s mine.
And this time, I’m staying.
I’ll burn the Hollow to the ground before I let anyone take her from me again.
169 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2025
46 people are currently reading
12 people want to read
About the author
Delta James
323 books2,304 followersAs a USA Today bestselling romance author, Delta James aims to captivate readers with stories about complex heroines and the dominant alpha males who adore them. For Delta, romance is more than just a love story; it’s a journey with challenges and thrills along the way.
After creating a second chapter for herself that was dramatically different than the first, Delta now resides in Florida where she relaxes on warm summer evenings with her loveable pack of basset hounds as they watch the birds, squirrels, and lizards. When not crafting fast-paced tales, she enjoys horseback riding, hiking, and white-water rafting.
Her readers mean the world to her, and Delta tries to interact personally with as many messages as she can. If you’d like to chat or discuss books, you can find Delta on Instagram, Facebook, and in her private reader group https://www.facebook.com/groups/34898....
After creating a second chapter for herself that was dramatically different than the first, Delta now resides in Florida where she relaxes on warm summer evenings with her loveable pack of basset hounds as they watch the birds, squirrels, and lizards. When not crafting fast-paced tales, she enjoys horseback riding, hiking, and white-water rafting.
Her readers mean the world to her, and Delta tries to interact personally with as many messages as she can. If you’d like to chat or discuss books, you can find Delta on Instagram, Facebook, and in her private reader group https://www.facebook.com/groups/34898....
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
December 17, 2025
3 Stars
I was initially interested in reading Luke and Elena’s second chance (wolf shifter) romance having liked what I saw/heard of them when they were secondary characters in book one (Alpha Unbound), but the reality of their story wasn’t as engaging as I’d hoped.
Ultimately, I was completely unmoved by their “mates reuniting” plot, especially when it came to all the talking in circles that happened, regarding why Luke left in the first place and what he was doing while gone.
In truth, it all felt pretty repetitive to me, which isn’t what you want to feel with a 169-page novella. And, I’ll admit, I still don’t feel like I actually got answers/understood what the conflict in this series even was at the end.
Like, who were the syndicate (sable rock?) and what even was the conspiracy the MCs were uncovering? I honestly feel like I either missed something important along the way, or it was all so vague and surface level in its telling that I didn’t really feel like there were actual stakes at play in this story, beyond Luke trying to win back Elena’s affections and overcoming his evil uncle.
What I did still appreciate was the vivid and atmospheric sense of place that James created, with very compelling descriptions of the Wild Hollow setting (a small mountain town in the Appalachians) that felt like its own larger than life character within the story.
At the end of the day, this series was just sort of there for me and I’m not sure I’d try this author’s work again, but I can see how her brand of paranormal romance could be (is) very popular with a particular audience.
***A special thanks to the author and publishers (via Book Sirens) for providing an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was initially interested in reading Luke and Elena’s second chance (wolf shifter) romance having liked what I saw/heard of them when they were secondary characters in book one (Alpha Unbound), but the reality of their story wasn’t as engaging as I’d hoped.
Ultimately, I was completely unmoved by their “mates reuniting” plot, especially when it came to all the talking in circles that happened, regarding why Luke left in the first place and what he was doing while gone.
In truth, it all felt pretty repetitive to me, which isn’t what you want to feel with a 169-page novella. And, I’ll admit, I still don’t feel like I actually got answers/understood what the conflict in this series even was at the end.
Like, who were the syndicate (sable rock?) and what even was the conspiracy the MCs were uncovering? I honestly feel like I either missed something important along the way, or it was all so vague and surface level in its telling that I didn’t really feel like there were actual stakes at play in this story, beyond Luke trying to win back Elena’s affections and overcoming his evil uncle.
What I did still appreciate was the vivid and atmospheric sense of place that James created, with very compelling descriptions of the Wild Hollow setting (a small mountain town in the Appalachians) that felt like its own larger than life character within the story.
At the end of the day, this series was just sort of there for me and I’m not sure I’d try this author’s work again, but I can see how her brand of paranormal romance could be (is) very popular with a particular audience.
***A special thanks to the author and publishers (via Book Sirens) for providing an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 3, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Its a 3.5 for me. If you enjoy a quick, angsty spicy read - & WOLVES - this is for you.
What I enjoyed:
* Descriptions of mating a bond, wolf transformations, connection to nature , family/friendship bonds - Love and loyalty.
* Angst between the FMC & MMC - raw and unfiltered, read like an episode in a good soap opera and I am here for the feels.
* Spice/tension - 4 ⭐️
What could have been better:
* Some details that were summarized could have been expanded on. Would have enjoyed more detail on what EXACTLY the MMC was up to during an absence. (This is BIG for me, I want to fuuuuullly understand his choices/reasoning)
* A few repetative instances where the same scene or feeling is repeated within the space of the same chapter.
Its a 3.5 for me. If you enjoy a quick, angsty spicy read - & WOLVES - this is for you.
What I enjoyed:
* Descriptions of mating a bond, wolf transformations, connection to nature , family/friendship bonds - Love and loyalty.
* Angst between the FMC & MMC - raw and unfiltered, read like an episode in a good soap opera and I am here for the feels.
* Spice/tension - 4 ⭐️
What could have been better:
* Some details that were summarized could have been expanded on. Would have enjoyed more detail on what EXACTLY the MMC was up to during an absence. (This is BIG for me, I want to fuuuuullly understand his choices/reasoning)
* A few repetative instances where the same scene or feeling is repeated within the space of the same chapter.
December 31, 2025
This book is Elena and Luke's story. The dual pov was helpful to understand the perspectives of the main characters. There were moments I wanted to connect with the characters, but there was a depth missing. Even after reading the last words, I don't feel like I really know Luke. I understood Elena's anger, which I think was justified, but I had a hard time rooting for her. It felt like she had to force her anger. It was nice seeing Kate and Hudson, but where was the goose??
While I enjoyed the imagery, there was a repetitiveness that made parts of the story feel like it was droning on and on. I did enjoy the action (fight scenes). They were described well and made sense to my brain.
Overall, I think the plot and overall cohesiveness was better than book 1. There were still things that took away from me being able to submerge myself into the story. This was a 2.75 star read. I would read another book by this author because I see the improvement in the writing.
I received an arc from BookSirens. My review is my opinion, given freely.
While I enjoyed the imagery, there was a repetitiveness that made parts of the story feel like it was droning on and on. I did enjoy the action (fight scenes). They were described well and made sense to my brain.
Overall, I think the plot and overall cohesiveness was better than book 1. There were still things that took away from me being able to submerge myself into the story. This was a 2.75 star read. I would read another book by this author because I see the improvement in the writing.
I received an arc from BookSirens. My review is my opinion, given freely.
July 24, 2025
LET THE MOUNTAIN WITNESS. LET THE STONES REMEMBER.
The story is the second in the series that takes place in Wild Hollow, West Virginia, where there are two rival wolf packs, the McKinleys and the Rawlings. They each have boundary lines and their side of the mountain. Luke McKinley has returned again—only to find out that Elena Clark is carrying his child.
“Brace yourself. Main Street just got a whole lot more interesting.”
Elena Clark and her late mother only had each other. They moved to Wild Hollow, where her mother opened a bookstore, The Moss & Ink, which Elena now owns and runs. Kate McKinley and Elena have been friends since childhood, and that means that she has known Luke McKinley most of her life. Allowing him into her life that fateful night changed everything: the claiming bite, transitioning into a wolf-shifter, finding herself pregnant, and Luke vanishing before the morning light. Memories of her mother help hold her together.
“We’re tougher than we look, Elena. We make our own place in the world. You’re stronger than you think, Elena. Try to do more than survive. Thrive.”
Elena: I feel like I’m trapped between worlds. Not Rawlings. Not McKinley. Not even fully human anymore—just this strange in-between. I don’t know who I am—I don’t even know what I am anymore. I’m tired of scraping for scraps of belonging. Of always proving I deserve to stay.
Kate: Then don’t. Take up space. Demand more.
The story’s plot will pick up months after the night Elena and Luke connect, and he vanished. He has returned, and things are as dangerous as they were before. The Sable Rock syndicate has an ally in the area, and Luke believes it is someone in the McKinley line feeding them information. The stakes are higher; it isn’t just Luke, he has to protect Elena, his mate, and the baby she is carrying. The first order of business will be to get settled, speak with Hudson and Kate, and he will have to challenge his Uncle Waylon for the title of Alpha, which by heredity, belongs to him. No more running, challenge issued and met, but that doesn’t mean that danger isn’t lurking and planning an attack.
“Blood calls to blood. The strongest will lead the pack. Fight until one submits or breathes no more. The victor will decide. You both know the rules.”
The story has the good, the bad, and the evil within characters. It is a romance that needs mending because trust has been broken. The story will feature a battle, and will have two packs that had once worked together, returning to friendship. Good must win over evil, not just for the wolves, but for the humans who call Wild Hollow home. Luke and Elena will find a way to mend the hurt and prepare for their future. Hudson and Kate are secondary characters in this story.
The story is the second in the series that takes place in Wild Hollow, West Virginia, where there are two rival wolf packs, the McKinleys and the Rawlings. They each have boundary lines and their side of the mountain. Luke McKinley has returned again—only to find out that Elena Clark is carrying his child.
“Brace yourself. Main Street just got a whole lot more interesting.”
Elena Clark and her late mother only had each other. They moved to Wild Hollow, where her mother opened a bookstore, The Moss & Ink, which Elena now owns and runs. Kate McKinley and Elena have been friends since childhood, and that means that she has known Luke McKinley most of her life. Allowing him into her life that fateful night changed everything: the claiming bite, transitioning into a wolf-shifter, finding herself pregnant, and Luke vanishing before the morning light. Memories of her mother help hold her together.
“We’re tougher than we look, Elena. We make our own place in the world. You’re stronger than you think, Elena. Try to do more than survive. Thrive.”
Elena: I feel like I’m trapped between worlds. Not Rawlings. Not McKinley. Not even fully human anymore—just this strange in-between. I don’t know who I am—I don’t even know what I am anymore. I’m tired of scraping for scraps of belonging. Of always proving I deserve to stay.
Kate: Then don’t. Take up space. Demand more.
The story’s plot will pick up months after the night Elena and Luke connect, and he vanished. He has returned, and things are as dangerous as they were before. The Sable Rock syndicate has an ally in the area, and Luke believes it is someone in the McKinley line feeding them information. The stakes are higher; it isn’t just Luke, he has to protect Elena, his mate, and the baby she is carrying. The first order of business will be to get settled, speak with Hudson and Kate, and he will have to challenge his Uncle Waylon for the title of Alpha, which by heredity, belongs to him. No more running, challenge issued and met, but that doesn’t mean that danger isn’t lurking and planning an attack.
“Blood calls to blood. The strongest will lead the pack. Fight until one submits or breathes no more. The victor will decide. You both know the rules.”
The story has the good, the bad, and the evil within characters. It is a romance that needs mending because trust has been broken. The story will feature a battle, and will have two packs that had once worked together, returning to friendship. Good must win over evil, not just for the wolves, but for the humans who call Wild Hollow home. Luke and Elena will find a way to mend the hurt and prepare for their future. Hudson and Kate are secondary characters in this story.
July 27, 2025
3.75stars-ALPHA UNCHAINED is the second instalment in Delta James’ contemporary, adult WOLVES OF WILD HOLLOW erotic, paranormal, romance series. This is alpha Luke McKinley, and book store owner Elena Clark’s story line. ALPHA UNCHAINED can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalment is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Luke and Elena) ALPHA UNCHAINED follows the rekindling but tempestuous relationship between our story line couple. Several months earlier, human female Elena Clark fell in love with alpha Luke McKinley but after claiming our heroine as his own, biting, marking and mating, then leaving her pregnant, Luke ran without looking back, and not the first time he abandoned the woman he loves. All is not as it appears to be; the Sable Rock Syndicates, a cartel is taking aim at Wild Hollow, and the McKinley Pack refuses to accept Elena as one of their own.
The world building follows Luke’s need to reclaim the woman he loves, as the current Alpha continues to threaten our story line couple. Luke is determined to take his place as the rightful Alpha but a fight to the death is the only way out.
The relationship between Luke and Elena is one of second chances but Elena struggles to trust the man who destroyed her heart, leaving her pregnant and a newly turned wolf. Luke thought leaving was the only way to protect the woman he loved but the danger is never far behind. The $ex scenes are intimate and impassioned without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
The colorful and intense secondary and supporting characters include the return of Wild Hollow sheriff and alpha wolf Hudson Rawlings, and store owner Kate McKinley aka Luke’s sister, the uncle Waylon McKinley.
ALPHA UNCHAINED is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, forgiveness and love. The fast paced premise is engaging and captivating; the romance is fated yet flawed; the characters are determined and magical.
copy supplied for review
Told from dual first person perspectives (Luke and Elena) ALPHA UNCHAINED follows the rekindling but tempestuous relationship between our story line couple. Several months earlier, human female Elena Clark fell in love with alpha Luke McKinley but after claiming our heroine as his own, biting, marking and mating, then leaving her pregnant, Luke ran without looking back, and not the first time he abandoned the woman he loves. All is not as it appears to be; the Sable Rock Syndicates, a cartel is taking aim at Wild Hollow, and the McKinley Pack refuses to accept Elena as one of their own.
The world building follows Luke’s need to reclaim the woman he loves, as the current Alpha continues to threaten our story line couple. Luke is determined to take his place as the rightful Alpha but a fight to the death is the only way out.
The relationship between Luke and Elena is one of second chances but Elena struggles to trust the man who destroyed her heart, leaving her pregnant and a newly turned wolf. Luke thought leaving was the only way to protect the woman he loved but the danger is never far behind. The $ex scenes are intimate and impassioned without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
The colorful and intense secondary and supporting characters include the return of Wild Hollow sheriff and alpha wolf Hudson Rawlings, and store owner Kate McKinley aka Luke’s sister, the uncle Waylon McKinley.
ALPHA UNCHAINED is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, forgiveness and love. The fast paced premise is engaging and captivating; the romance is fated yet flawed; the characters are determined and magical.
copy supplied for review
August 29, 2025
Alpha Unchained, the second book in the Wolves of Wild Hollow, gives you all the angst, all the sizzle, and some insight into the mate bond I hadn't read before. I enjoyed that part.
My rating: 4 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Luke McKinley, a man who has come home to face the music (or the books) has to face Elena Clark who he last saw a few months ago. And she is not happy to see him. Because he left her with more than just a note. She's now a wolf shifter. And pregnant. And wants nothing to do with Luke. Absolutely nothing.
Luke has to face more than just Elena. His sister Kate, his brother-in-law, Hudson - Alpha of the Rawling's Pack and Kate's husband, the diner folks, the McKinley pack, and his unpredictable uncle, Waylon McKinley. Luke had to deal with them all.
What I loved:
🐺The exploration of the Mate Bond.
📚Elena owns a bookstore called Moss & Ink. What can be cooler than that?
🐺The relationship between Elena and Kate, Luke's sister. She was so supportive of Elena and encouraged her to embrace her wolf.
📚The diner of people giving Luke the sink eye when he interupts Elena and Kate having lunch.
🐺The Groveling
📚The Surprise Shower
What Didn't For Me:
🐺Luke's Domineering Attitude
📚The Syndicate. Talked about, built up as a threat, but wasn't really a presence.
🐺Luke not killing his Uncle immediately which came back to bite him. I realize it was a plot tool but an alpha wouldn't have been merciful.
📚I have not read Delta James books before so I don't know if this is her "thing". In a novella of 164 pages, she dropped her name in three times. That took me out of the story.
Overall I did enjoy this book and I'd recommend it as a quick, angsty, wolfie book.
Thank you to the Author and BookSirens for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
#alphaunchained #deltajames #booksirens #paranormalromance #wolfiebooks
My rating: 4 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Luke McKinley, a man who has come home to face the music (or the books) has to face Elena Clark who he last saw a few months ago. And she is not happy to see him. Because he left her with more than just a note. She's now a wolf shifter. And pregnant. And wants nothing to do with Luke. Absolutely nothing.
Luke has to face more than just Elena. His sister Kate, his brother-in-law, Hudson - Alpha of the Rawling's Pack and Kate's husband, the diner folks, the McKinley pack, and his unpredictable uncle, Waylon McKinley. Luke had to deal with them all.
What I loved:
🐺The exploration of the Mate Bond.
📚Elena owns a bookstore called Moss & Ink. What can be cooler than that?
🐺The relationship between Elena and Kate, Luke's sister. She was so supportive of Elena and encouraged her to embrace her wolf.
📚The diner of people giving Luke the sink eye when he interupts Elena and Kate having lunch.
🐺The Groveling
📚The Surprise Shower
What Didn't For Me:
🐺Luke's Domineering Attitude
📚The Syndicate. Talked about, built up as a threat, but wasn't really a presence.
🐺Luke not killing his Uncle immediately which came back to bite him. I realize it was a plot tool but an alpha wouldn't have been merciful.
📚I have not read Delta James books before so I don't know if this is her "thing". In a novella of 164 pages, she dropped her name in three times. That took me out of the story.
Overall I did enjoy this book and I'd recommend it as a quick, angsty, wolfie book.
Thank you to the Author and BookSirens for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
#alphaunchained #deltajames #booksirens #paranormalromance #wolfiebooks
October 2, 2025
A very interesting story it deals with Luke a wolf shifter who should be alpha of his pack but who keeps running away from his responsibilities because of misplaced guilt a little cowardice and a feeling that doing so keeps his ppl safe. ESP Elena the human he’s always loved who he left not once but twice. The second time he marks her without her consent and leaves her not only changed forever but pregnant. By time he finds out many months have passed and Elena has no interest in forgiving him nor can she trust him again. He must make the choice to come home stay and fight for his heritage if he ever wants even a chance of getting her to forgive him or having anything to do with his child. And Elena is furious hurt and not feeling forgiving. Nor is Luke’s sister Elena’s best friend. It will take everything Luke has to have any chance at the future he threw away twice.
I found Luke to be an extreme coward, very cruel to change her without consent and leave her to deal with the fallout of his actions. He admitted to himself he was a coward yet still thought everyone should just forgive and forget easily.for me Luke’s character should have had to grovel a great deal more. Well written with drama excitement bit of spice and conflict. Good world building.
I received an arc copy from book sirens and this is my honest voluntary review.
I found Luke to be an extreme coward, very cruel to change her without consent and leave her to deal with the fallout of his actions. He admitted to himself he was a coward yet still thought everyone should just forgive and forget easily.for me Luke’s character should have had to grovel a great deal more. Well written with drama excitement bit of spice and conflict. Good world building.
I received an arc copy from book sirens and this is my honest voluntary review.
July 27, 2025
Luke and Elena, the lies and betrayal that nearly broke them and love that kept them strong
Luke and Elena are a couple that had fallen in love and even though she was human and he was an Alpha shifter they had marked and mated and claimed by giving her his mate mark with a bite on the shoulder and neck. She had been carrying his offspring when he had run and left his mate and the child she carried alone, even his pack had rejected her and her child as their own.
Luke needs to mend the fences he has broken and find the woman who carried his child by herself after he had abandoned her. He is determined to take his rightful position as the head of his pack but being Alpha will not be easy, a fight to the death is the only way to win his place as alpha.
Luke and Elena struggles to once again trust the man she gave her heart to all those years ago, he had left her as a newly turned wolf and the danger she had been in carrying his child had been a constant threat it was a real heartfelt read that I guarantee you will be completely blown away by.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.
Luke and Elena are a couple that had fallen in love and even though she was human and he was an Alpha shifter they had marked and mated and claimed by giving her his mate mark with a bite on the shoulder and neck. She had been carrying his offspring when he had run and left his mate and the child she carried alone, even his pack had rejected her and her child as their own.
Luke needs to mend the fences he has broken and find the woman who carried his child by herself after he had abandoned her. He is determined to take his rightful position as the head of his pack but being Alpha will not be easy, a fight to the death is the only way to win his place as alpha.
Luke and Elena struggles to once again trust the man she gave her heart to all those years ago, he had left her as a newly turned wolf and the danger she had been in carrying his child had been a constant threat it was a real heartfelt read that I guarantee you will be completely blown away by.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.
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August 16, 2025Redemption is hard when it is an alpha shifter seeking it.
A very different Alpha shifter book. Luke is hereditary alpha to the McKinley but he he chose to take a different path that left his uncle as the alpha. A wrong decision for sure. Then he compounded that decision by turning his fated mate without her permission, getting her pregnant and leaving. Elena is left to then move forward on her own, not understanding the change from human to shifter and with a baby on the way. Elena is angry and rightly so. When Luke finds out Elena is pregnant and in danger, he comes back to claim his heritage, his mate and his future baby. Too bad Elena is not in the mood to forgive. She gave her heart to Luke and he left her to navigate the shifter world on her own. But now, they have to find common ground because her life, her child and her future are all in danger. It is not often that you read a story about an alpha shifter seeking redemption to reclaim his mate and his heritage. An enjoyable read. This is book 2 and I would recommend reading the first book before this. It will make much more sense.
A very different Alpha shifter book. Luke is hereditary alpha to the McKinley but he he chose to take a different path that left his uncle as the alpha. A wrong decision for sure. Then he compounded that decision by turning his fated mate without her permission, getting her pregnant and leaving. Elena is left to then move forward on her own, not understanding the change from human to shifter and with a baby on the way. Elena is angry and rightly so. When Luke finds out Elena is pregnant and in danger, he comes back to claim his heritage, his mate and his future baby. Too bad Elena is not in the mood to forgive. She gave her heart to Luke and he left her to navigate the shifter world on her own. But now, they have to find common ground because her life, her child and her future are all in danger. It is not often that you read a story about an alpha shifter seeking redemption to reclaim his mate and his heritage. An enjoyable read. This is book 2 and I would recommend reading the first book before this. It will make much more sense.
October 13, 2025
This story follows Luke, a wolf shifter weighed down by guilt and fear, and Elena, the human woman he’s hurt more than once. Their relationship is complicated, filled with betrayal, anger, and a desperate fight for forgiveness. The world-building is solid, and the action scenes — especially the fights — are vivid and engaging. There’s drama, conflict, and a bit of spice to keep things moving.
However, Luke’s character was hard to sympathize with. His choices — especially changing Elena without her consent and then abandoning her — make him come across as cowardly and selfish. While the story tries to redeem him, it didn’t feel like he really earned that redemption. Elena’s anger is completely justified, but even so, her emotions sometimes felt forced rather than deeply lived in.
It’s a well-written story with promise, but the emotional depth is uneven. Still, I can see the improvement from book one and would give the author another chance to see where the series goes next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
However, Luke’s character was hard to sympathize with. His choices — especially changing Elena without her consent and then abandoning her — make him come across as cowardly and selfish. While the story tries to redeem him, it didn’t feel like he really earned that redemption. Elena’s anger is completely justified, but even so, her emotions sometimes felt forced rather than deeply lived in.
It’s a well-written story with promise, but the emotional depth is uneven. Still, I can see the improvement from book one and would give the author another chance to see where the series goes next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 28, 2025
Elena and Luke’s story is gripping in its own way, they have been orbiting each other for years and Luke finally claims her and changes her all in one night. Then leaves before morning, to “protect her”. Elena cries “bull$h@t” and refuses to have anything to do with him. But things aren’t always so cut and dried in the Hollow, old bitter blood fuels come calling and Luke & Elena need to work it out quickly for the sake of the baby she’s carrying and for their future. Loved this second book in the series . We get to catch up with Kate ( Luke’s sister from book 1 ), and the action scenes are excellent. The heat between Luke and Elena is a bit lacking, which is unusual for a Delta James book, usually it’s a 5🌶️ out of 5🌶️, this one rates about 3-4🌶️’s in my book, so hot, just not scorching! The editing as usual is excellent, the storyline moves along at a good clip. Love the characters. 4✨’s . I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 29, 2025
As much as I wanted Luke and Elena to overcome their issues, I just was not feeling that usual Delta James heat between them. I liked how they came together toward the end. Even at that point I wasn't picking up that tension between the two. Elena was perfectly justified in her anger at Luke. Yet, I think it was hard for me to see them getting past the anger to being romantic. The anger was intense.
Luke was fighting more than Waylon. I had to wonder if resolving what was going on in Wild Hollow was as simple as Luke stepping up as Alpha. I really felt like I was missing something.
I enjoyed the descriptive aspect of the book. I liked how supportive Kate and Hudson were of Elena. I think if you read this book that it will be more enjoyable if you also read the first book.in the series. Having that bit of background information may prove to be beneficial. Rating: 3.5 Stars
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book.
Luke was fighting more than Waylon. I had to wonder if resolving what was going on in Wild Hollow was as simple as Luke stepping up as Alpha. I really felt like I was missing something.
I enjoyed the descriptive aspect of the book. I liked how supportive Kate and Hudson were of Elena. I think if you read this book that it will be more enjoyable if you also read the first book.in the series. Having that bit of background information may prove to be beneficial. Rating: 3.5 Stars
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book.
August 7, 2025
"A Fantastic Shifter Romance series"
Each story in this series is awesome. You will love all the characters. The stories are exciting and steamy hot. Luke is a sexy wolf shifter. He found his mate a human named Elena. Only his Alpha is against the mating. But Luke is determined to claim his mate. One night he got carried away and mated her. He marked her and the next morning disappeared. Only leaving a note saying he loved her but had to leave for her protection!
His mating turned her, and left her a little surprise. Elena is determined to stand on her own. Even when his pack threatens her!
Then Luke discovers he is going to be a father, and his Alpha has it in for Elena, and his unborn child! He knows he must return home and face his responsibilities. Can he convince Elena to take him back? Can he protect her and keep her ,and their child safe? You will love this five star plus story and series.
Each story in this series is awesome. You will love all the characters. The stories are exciting and steamy hot. Luke is a sexy wolf shifter. He found his mate a human named Elena. Only his Alpha is against the mating. But Luke is determined to claim his mate. One night he got carried away and mated her. He marked her and the next morning disappeared. Only leaving a note saying he loved her but had to leave for her protection!
His mating turned her, and left her a little surprise. Elena is determined to stand on her own. Even when his pack threatens her!
Then Luke discovers he is going to be a father, and his Alpha has it in for Elena, and his unborn child! He knows he must return home and face his responsibilities. Can he convince Elena to take him back? Can he protect her and keep her ,and their child safe? You will love this five star plus story and series.
August 27, 2025
Alpha Unchained is a very emotionally charged second book in the Wolves of Wild Hollow. This book hooks you from the first but in a very different way than most ofthis authors books do for me. This is Luke and Elena's story and a rough one it is. I know that I was totally prepared to jump right in for this couple to be together and I am definitely on team Elena but Luke's claiming her and then leaving was just disrespectful. Leaving her at such a vulnerable time was the worse thing he could have done. Every enemy he ever made would come after her and he wasn't man enough to see that. That being said this author is a master world builder and weaves a tale like no other and I quickly realized how quick I was to judge this character. Secondary characters in this book bring great weight and flow and continuity to the story. I cannot wait to read the rest of this story. Elena was one strong resilient amazing woman with inborn grace to overcome adversity
August 28, 2025
Luke is a flawed shifted whose alpha does not want him to mate with Elena, a human. However, in a moment of passion, he bites her and impregnates her. He then leaves here a note that he must leave to protect her. Seriously??? Elena had to face the difficulty of becoming a shifter and being pregnant alone. It’s no surprise that she detests him.
Luke returns months later and arrogantly believes that she will fall at his feet. He loves her and wants her as his mate. He has a lot of repair work that he must do. The first is that his alpha wants the baby. Elena faced many struggles and fears while he was gone and was strong enough to survive and thrive. It’s a story of love, redemption, passion, and forgiveness, with a dose of mystery and danger thrown in. It’s a story that only Delta James could create. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Luke returns months later and arrogantly believes that she will fall at his feet. He loves her and wants her as his mate. He has a lot of repair work that he must do. The first is that his alpha wants the baby. Elena faced many struggles and fears while he was gone and was strong enough to survive and thrive. It’s a story of love, redemption, passion, and forgiveness, with a dose of mystery and danger thrown in. It’s a story that only Delta James could create. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 22, 2025
HE'LL HAVE TO FIGHT FOR HER THIS TIME
Luke and Elena. Hes gone. Left behind a note of reason. And his mark. She cant breathe. He unknowingly leaves her with a piece of himself. She wont chase him if he wants them he knows where she is. A phone call is how he finds out. Some will use her for revenge. Some will condem him for leaving her. He left to protect her but put her in more danger than ever withour him. He'll have to run towards trouble now and protect them with everything he has. And what trouble it is. He'll have to convince her to let him back in first.
Great story. Full of danger, suspense, trust, revenge, betrayal, shifters, heirs, fighting packs, and an alpha full of dark obsessive prossessive protective instincts that will burn the Hollow down to protect and get whats his. He'll learn the best way to protect your loved ones is to keep them close not push them away.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Luke and Elena. Hes gone. Left behind a note of reason. And his mark. She cant breathe. He unknowingly leaves her with a piece of himself. She wont chase him if he wants them he knows where she is. A phone call is how he finds out. Some will use her for revenge. Some will condem him for leaving her. He left to protect her but put her in more danger than ever withour him. He'll have to run towards trouble now and protect them with everything he has. And what trouble it is. He'll have to convince her to let him back in first.
Great story. Full of danger, suspense, trust, revenge, betrayal, shifters, heirs, fighting packs, and an alpha full of dark obsessive prossessive protective instincts that will burn the Hollow down to protect and get whats his. He'll learn the best way to protect your loved ones is to keep them close not push them away.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 1, 2025
The problem with alpha men /wolves is that they always think they’re right. In this case Luke thinks that leaving the woman he loves, claimed and knocked up was the best way to protect her. Idiot! He didn’t ask her input or explain that by mating her she would gain a wolf of her own or what to do when shifting or when or if he would return.
Elena is righteously pissed. No woman likes having her emotions played with.
Now Luke is back and expects Elena to just let him back into her life as if he didn’t leave her alone and pregnant. He has some major groveling to do. Not an alpha skill.
They say that this can be read standalone and it can but I highly recommend reading the first book Alpha Unbound to understand the backdrop against which these events are happening and the Kate/Hudson relationship.
This is a really enjoyable story filled with love, angst, intrigue and danger.
Elena is righteously pissed. No woman likes having her emotions played with.
Now Luke is back and expects Elena to just let him back into her life as if he didn’t leave her alone and pregnant. He has some major groveling to do. Not an alpha skill.
They say that this can be read standalone and it can but I highly recommend reading the first book Alpha Unbound to understand the backdrop against which these events are happening and the Kate/Hudson relationship.
This is a really enjoyable story filled with love, angst, intrigue and danger.
August 24, 2025
Luke McKinley was hunting mercenaries and members of his own pack who were profiting from a syndicate using Wild Hollow to traffic illegal goods, but before he disappeared because of becoming known and putting family in danger, mated with the owner of the bookstore Elena. In a moment of passion, bit her throat, initiating change to wolf, but also leaving her pregnant. Elena faced change by herself, with help from Luke's sister Kate and her husband, the Sheriff, Hudson Rawlings. When Luke returned to town after months, discovered Elena pregnant and needed to grovel to get back into Elena and Kate's good graces as well as take down those using Wild Hollow for their nefarious objectives...but you will need to read this intense story to see what happens...I voluntarily read this book through an Advanced Reader Copy.
September 1, 2025
I received an advance review copy- for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved reading this book it was awesome I was pulled into the story from the start it was full of emotions of sorrow, regret, forgiveness, arrogant, and so much more. When Elena and her mum moved to Wild Hollow, Elena becomes friends with Kate McKinley and also getting to know her brother Luke. When Elena takes over her mums book store, when Elena and Luke in close proximity to each other something happens between them and then by morning he has gone left town, he done it a couple of times but it was the last time he claimed her and left her with something she was not expecting, now her life was in more danger than he thought, now his back and Luke seems to of thought she would take him back, he needed to think again. Will she allow him to disrupt her life again.
I loved reading this book it was awesome I was pulled into the story from the start it was full of emotions of sorrow, regret, forgiveness, arrogant, and so much more. When Elena and her mum moved to Wild Hollow, Elena becomes friends with Kate McKinley and also getting to know her brother Luke. When Elena takes over her mums book store, when Elena and Luke in close proximity to each other something happens between them and then by morning he has gone left town, he done it a couple of times but it was the last time he claimed her and left her with something she was not expecting, now her life was in more danger than he thought, now his back and Luke seems to of thought she would take him back, he needed to think again. Will she allow him to disrupt her life again.
August 19, 2025
Luke has returned to Wild Hollow for good. He left his mate changed, pregnant, and in danger. His family wants his child, and the cartel wants him dead, but he is determined to win Elena's trust and take his place as rightful alpha of his pack. Unfortunately, Elena wants nothing to do with him, and does not believe him when he promises to protect her and never leave again. This is a quick and steamy read with wonderfully well written and engaging characters that drew me into their world from the first page of this book. Exciting action, steam, emotional angst, and unexpected twists make this a book I will gladly recommend to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC provided by Book Sirens.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC provided by Book Sirens.
September 1, 2025
Great book with captivating plotline. You can read it as a standalone, but I strongly suggest first reading Alpha Unbound (book 1 in this series) for the best experience possible. Luke and Elena were a magnificent pair, and I struggled with the difficulties and fears that separated them. In this book, there is a reconing of legacy and fate and, while it was an trying process, a resolution will be achieved (one that not everyone was pleased about). Delta, as always, wove the histories, choices, fears and desires into an enthralling story that had me reeling with the intensity of emotion portrayed. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series, and wonder which character will be featured next.
I voluntarily reviewed a gift copy of this book. Happy Reading Y'all 📚
I voluntarily reviewed a gift copy of this book. Happy Reading Y'all 📚
July 30, 2025
A quick emotional read. Luke marked, claimed Elena one passionate night and left her, in his mind for her safety. Elena is left distraught, she not only has to cope with his desertion, but being a newly turned wolf and being pregnant. Luckily she has the support of his sister Kate and her mate Hudson, Alpha of the Rawlings pack. The McKinleys are threatening Elena and Luke knew he had to return. Trust had to be regained and a brutal fight for the Alpha title has to be won before old grudges can be buried and harmony in Wild Hollows restored. Plenty of wolf shifter passionate spice.
I received an advanced review copy and leave this review voluntary Thank you BookSirens
I received an advanced review copy and leave this review voluntary Thank you BookSirens
August 6, 2025
Wolf-shifter Luke has left Elena alone after turning her and knocking her up. Now, he has returned and wants her back. But the reason he left is still valid, danger follows him. Can he convince her to forgive him before trouble finds him again?
I'm still not sure exactly who the Sable Rock syndicate is or why Luke has been 'hunting' them. Elena has had a difficult life and Luke really did a number on her by biting her and then leaving her to deal. Since he didn't know she was pregnant, I'll give him a pass on that one. He came back when he found out. Lots of angst in this one.
I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
I'm still not sure exactly who the Sable Rock syndicate is or why Luke has been 'hunting' them. Elena has had a difficult life and Luke really did a number on her by biting her and then leaving her to deal. Since he didn't know she was pregnant, I'll give him a pass on that one. He came back when he found out. Lots of angst in this one.
I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
August 13, 2025
Luke had a LOT to make up for - mostly with Elena but with his pack too. Why do males always think that Leaving is more protective than Staying and actually protecting? He seemed like a coward. Elena had very concrete reasons to tell Luke to take a hike and keep going. He’d already left her once when she needed him the most. Thank goodness his sister and brother-in-law were around to support her through the heartbreak and shock. Being mates smoothed over some of the problems but Luke had to finally take on the Alpha mantle and his responsibilities in order to be the man Elena needed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 26, 2025
While this ends as a sweet shifter story, it lacks the substance of other Delta James books. It seems the protagonists were apart for some time after Luke bonded her and left her in her own ro cope with transitioning and a baby he did not know about. It's not really clear why he left, but much of the shirt book is about the tension of his return and the stressful battles as he claims his alpha status over a somewhat corrupt relative
This is not one of the author's best works, so don't take this as her norm.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is not one of the author's best works, so don't take this as her norm.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 4, 2025
This was a good book with lots of angst and emotion. Luke is a shifter and he gets Elena pregnant but she's a human. He leaves town - without giving a goodbye - just a short note. Well he's back in town, he needs to deal with issues in the town, but also to win back Elena. Elena has her own problems to deal with and she's not going to make it easy for him to come back into her life.
This is the second book in the series, and I didn't read the first which might give more context. But this was a good standalone.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the second book in the series, and I didn't read the first which might give more context. But this was a good standalone.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 30, 2025
This is the 2nd Book in the Wolves of Wild Hollow series by Delta James and this is Luke McKinley (wolf shifter/should be alpha of his pack) and Elena Clark (human/ fated mate, owner of the bookstore The Moss & Ink) story. They have known each other forever, but he left her thinking that he was protecting her! But now has returned—only to find out that she is carrying his child and his pack wants her/his child as it is the heir! Can Luke sort out his differences? Will the other packs get his child? Will they get their HEA?? You must read to find out.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 27, 2025
An intense emotional read!
Luke was back and on a mission to save his mate and their child. He had a lot of making up to do but to his surprise Elena isn’t the same person he’d run away from to save!
Broken trust, broken love, broken family, a pack in need and a HEA he’d fight and burn the whole world down to claim.
With some action, surprises and betrayal you’ll love Luke and Elena’s journey into a forever love!
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Luke was back and on a mission to save his mate and their child. He had a lot of making up to do but to his surprise Elena isn’t the same person he’d run away from to save!
Broken trust, broken love, broken family, a pack in need and a HEA he’d fight and burn the whole world down to claim.
With some action, surprises and betrayal you’ll love Luke and Elena’s journey into a forever love!
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 13, 2025
I absolutely loved this story. I dug my heels in, and sunk my teeth in too. I was drawn in from the very first page. The intensity, the betrayal. Wow.
This story had everything. This emotional powerful story isn't just about forgiveness, it's coming full circle and taking your rightful full place with the ones you love. 🔥💜
The characters and storyline are riveting. I like seeing a kick ass female who stands her ground and doesn't let an alpha male intimidate her. 💜
This is the second book in the Wolves of Wild Hollow series, and I am looking forward to the reading the next one 💜
August 16, 2025
LUKE AND ELENA
I received this book for free and am giving my honest and voluntary review.
A story of trying to do what’s right and having it be the wrong thing. I loved the way that Luke tried to protect Elena, even though all she needed was for him to believe in her. The hurt and frustration bleeding through this story was almost palpable. I felt for the two main characters and I thought the secondary ones were a bit rough on Luke since he was trying his best to save The Hollow. I loved it when he finally did what he had to do.
I received this book for free and am giving my honest and voluntary review.
A story of trying to do what’s right and having it be the wrong thing. I loved the way that Luke tried to protect Elena, even though all she needed was for him to believe in her. The hurt and frustration bleeding through this story was almost palpable. I felt for the two main characters and I thought the secondary ones were a bit rough on Luke since he was trying his best to save The Hollow. I loved it when he finally did what he had to do.
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