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Lunetti Pack #4
His Mate By Defiance
"For you? I will take it all. All your pain. All your desire. Everything. It’s all mine."
Rafe is done giving Adri space. For thirteen years, he's waited for his jaguar shifter mate to be ready to acknowledge what's between them. Thirteen years of tracking the pack's fighting ring and racing to respond whenever they need a doctor. The night he turns up to find Adri brutalised by a feral shifter in the ring, he knows he'll never let him go again. Especially when shifters start going missing. It wasn't random chance that Adri's opponent turned feral.
Adri told the Doc he didn't need saving over a decade ago, and nothing’s changed since. The last thing he needs is Rafe's overbearing protectiveness when he's trying to save his friends from a new unsanctioned fighting ring and whatever bioweapon is at play. Waking up in Rafe's bed wasn't in the plan. As soon as he's healed, Adri is out of there.
His Mate by Defiance is an MM paranormal romance with a bite. It features age gap, hurt/comfort, and ridged and knotting fun.
Rafe is done giving Adri space. For thirteen years, he's waited for his jaguar shifter mate to be ready to acknowledge what's between them. Thirteen years of tracking the pack's fighting ring and racing to respond whenever they need a doctor. The night he turns up to find Adri brutalised by a feral shifter in the ring, he knows he'll never let him go again. Especially when shifters start going missing. It wasn't random chance that Adri's opponent turned feral.
Adri told the Doc he didn't need saving over a decade ago, and nothing’s changed since. The last thing he needs is Rafe's overbearing protectiveness when he's trying to save his friends from a new unsanctioned fighting ring and whatever bioweapon is at play. Waking up in Rafe's bed wasn't in the plan. As soon as he's healed, Adri is out of there.
His Mate by Defiance is an MM paranormal romance with a bite. It features age gap, hurt/comfort, and ridged and knotting fun.
254 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 11, 2026
About the author
Mel Aitchess
9 books73 followersMel Aitchess writes steamy MM paranormal romance with a bite. She loves delicious enemies to lovers tension, possessive MCs that burn for each other without being alphaholes, and supernatural suspense that keeps you turning the page.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
March 12, 2026
I'm just sad I finished it in one sitting and now have to wait for the next book *sigh*.
I love the world Mel created and enjoy the underlying politics within the supernatural society. the overarching plot is engaging and well paced throughout the series.
I'm looking forward to Marco's book, YAY. *insert happy internal screaming*.
I love the world Mel created and enjoy the underlying politics within the supernatural society. the overarching plot is engaging and well paced throughout the series.
I'm looking forward to Marco's book, YAY. *insert happy internal screaming*.
March 13, 2026
This is such a wonderful series!
Rafe is a wolf shifter and recognises Adri as his mate. Adri is a jaguar shifter and doesn’t have that strong instinct, so Rafe is just the older doc who puts him together after another cage fight. Rafe wants him to stop the fights, Adri doesn’t need to be saved, he’s way too independent.
Adri made it clear: just a one-night stand, and then Rafe has to return to be his doc.
Adri was kidnapped and trafficked by the Cruor Coven at eighteen, and forced into cage fighting. All the money he earned from fighting he poured into paying off the debts of his fellow fighters. He needs to protect these fighters
It goes on for thirteen years, and Rafe as patient as he is, has had enough of this situation. Marco, the Lunetti pack alpha, took over the fight scenes and after Adri was badly hurt, Rafe wanted to take over the reins. Ha! As if Adri would let him!
Rafe is super protective of his mate. Adri was unaware of the mating thing for all these years. Adri still won’t let Rafe fuss over him and refuses to bond.
There are threats, and shifters are missing, I won’t spoil, but it’s all greatly put together!
Another wonderful addition to this series. It’s widely and enticingly written, well developed, with wonderful characters and a great plot.
Can’t wait for Alpha Marco’s story!!
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
Rafe is a wolf shifter and recognises Adri as his mate. Adri is a jaguar shifter and doesn’t have that strong instinct, so Rafe is just the older doc who puts him together after another cage fight. Rafe wants him to stop the fights, Adri doesn’t need to be saved, he’s way too independent.
Adri made it clear: just a one-night stand, and then Rafe has to return to be his doc.
Adri was kidnapped and trafficked by the Cruor Coven at eighteen, and forced into cage fighting. All the money he earned from fighting he poured into paying off the debts of his fellow fighters. He needs to protect these fighters
It goes on for thirteen years, and Rafe as patient as he is, has had enough of this situation. Marco, the Lunetti pack alpha, took over the fight scenes and after Adri was badly hurt, Rafe wanted to take over the reins. Ha! As if Adri would let him!
Rafe is super protective of his mate. Adri was unaware of the mating thing for all these years. Adri still won’t let Rafe fuss over him and refuses to bond.
There are threats, and shifters are missing, I won’t spoil, but it’s all greatly put together!
Another wonderful addition to this series. It’s widely and enticingly written, well developed, with wonderful characters and a great plot.
Can’t wait for Alpha Marco’s story!!
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
March 12, 2026
Rafe is quietly heroic; his patience—waiting thirteen years for his mate to be ready—felt earned rather than saccharine. He kept watch from a distance and, when the time came, showed Adri that he would always be there. Adri’s reluctance is believable: after being enslaved and forced into illegal fighting, the idea of being mated (and, to his mind, controlled) is terrifying. Mel Aitchess handles Adri’s trauma and gradual healing with sensitivity, letting trust grow slowly and realistically.
The romance itself sizzles. Their chemistry is off the charts, and the intimate scenes are steamy, but what makes the relationship resonate is the emotional work they do to build trust. That slow-burn patience culminates in a genuine, hard-won HEA that feels satisfying rather than rushed. Both protagonists are compelling on their own, and together they complement each other perfectly.
The romance itself sizzles. Their chemistry is off the charts, and the intimate scenes are steamy, but what makes the relationship resonate is the emotional work they do to build trust. That slow-burn patience culminates in a genuine, hard-won HEA that feels satisfying rather than rushed. Both protagonists are compelling on their own, and together they complement each other perfectly.
March 12, 2026
3.75
Adri being all clingy and cuddly with Rafe the moment he finally accepted his feelings felt so real. And Rafe!! Waiting thirteen years for Adri to come around, knowing exactly when to push and when to step back, was honestly the sweetest thing. Even when Adri told him to stay away, Rafe still found quiet ways to show up for him. I loved seeing Adri finally accept the pack. Now I'm just impatiently waiting for Marcus's book.
Adri being all clingy and cuddly with Rafe the moment he finally accepted his feelings felt so real. And Rafe!! Waiting thirteen years for Adri to come around, knowing exactly when to push and when to step back, was honestly the sweetest thing. Even when Adri told him to stay away, Rafe still found quiet ways to show up for him. I loved seeing Adri finally accept the pack. Now I'm just impatiently waiting for Marcus's book.
April 21, 2026
Finally! I loved the short prequel when it came out and have been waiting (almost as patiently as Rafe) for the full story and it did not disappoint!
Adri is a young jaguar-shifter fighter who is stubborn and refuses to accept Rafe's help because he doesn't need saving.
Rafe is a patient wolf-shifter healer who knows Adri is his mate but also knows that he isn't ready to accept that. 13 years go by and when Adri is brutalised by a feral shifter Rafe is unwilling to wait any longer.
Usually I'm more invested in the relationship than the overarching plot but damn this book had me hooked with all the mystery and drama!! I don't think I ever really set it down except to sleep lol. Completely worth the wait and I'm excited for more in the series.
Adri is a young jaguar-shifter fighter who is stubborn and refuses to accept Rafe's help because he doesn't need saving.
Rafe is a patient wolf-shifter healer who knows Adri is his mate but also knows that he isn't ready to accept that. 13 years go by and when Adri is brutalised by a feral shifter Rafe is unwilling to wait any longer.
Usually I'm more invested in the relationship than the overarching plot but damn this book had me hooked with all the mystery and drama!! I don't think I ever really set it down except to sleep lol. Completely worth the wait and I'm excited for more in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I sort of hate saying this because it sounds so cliché especially when the book is about a wolf shifter and a jaguar shifter, but if the cliché fits😏....Rafe and Adri are the quintessential golden retriever and black cat romance couple!!! This book was soooooo frigging good!!!!! The chemistry was off the charts, the push-pull vibes were vibbing and the plot was juicy and filled with tension.
So while I feel like I've been waiting years for this book, in reality I know it hasn't been that long. Regardless of my impatience, it was totally worth every moment of build up and anticipation!
His Mate By Defiance was everything I'd been waiting for. ❤️ Adri and Rafe were the perfect cat and mouse, I mean wolf 😏, romance. Adri embodied every characteristic of a feline; a sleek, dangerous one at that. He was aloof, but he also cared in a sassy-salty way, which could be seen as sweet depending on which side of the bed he woke up on😏. His purr was amazing, along with every stretch and instinct he had when he used his claws. I'm an instant fan of Adri. 😍
Rafe, of course, was the ultimate cinnamon roll caretaker. Giving too much at times, but also knowing when his kitten needed space. He craved the bits of affection Adri gave, but even more so he hungered for giving Adri everything he could ever need or want. Rafe is the ultimate golden retriever and loves taking care of others. The differences between their inner shifters were very distinct but quite fascinating in how they took care of each other instinctively. 🥰 Rafe's powers were fascinating and I especially loved how he used them on Adri. 🥵
As for the intense plot, there is always evil lurking within the city the Lunetti Pack lives in and this time a faction called D-2S is stirring trouble. Adri wants to protect the innocent shifters who have no one else and end up fighting in his club. Rafe also wants to protect the innocent but through offering protection through his pack. While they both want the same thing Adri struggles with the thought of ownership under an Alpha. It's no secret that cats like their independence. Jaguars aren't pack animals like wolves are, plus Rafe would never want to strip anyone of their rights, but being with his mate, being with Adri is what he wants more than anything, but he also won't push him when the younger shifter isn't ready. The tension is fantastic! Along with all the build up of cat vs. wolf. I loved the banter which led to trusting and eventually loving one another. It's truly all the little things that made their relationship stronger and so darn good to read!!
So while I feel like I've been waiting years for this book, in reality I know it hasn't been that long. Regardless of my impatience, it was totally worth every moment of build up and anticipation!
His Mate By Defiance was everything I'd been waiting for. ❤️ Adri and Rafe were the perfect cat and mouse, I mean wolf 😏, romance. Adri embodied every characteristic of a feline; a sleek, dangerous one at that. He was aloof, but he also cared in a sassy-salty way, which could be seen as sweet depending on which side of the bed he woke up on😏. His purr was amazing, along with every stretch and instinct he had when he used his claws. I'm an instant fan of Adri. 😍
Rafe, of course, was the ultimate cinnamon roll caretaker. Giving too much at times, but also knowing when his kitten needed space. He craved the bits of affection Adri gave, but even more so he hungered for giving Adri everything he could ever need or want. Rafe is the ultimate golden retriever and loves taking care of others. The differences between their inner shifters were very distinct but quite fascinating in how they took care of each other instinctively. 🥰 Rafe's powers were fascinating and I especially loved how he used them on Adri. 🥵
As for the intense plot, there is always evil lurking within the city the Lunetti Pack lives in and this time a faction called D-2S is stirring trouble. Adri wants to protect the innocent shifters who have no one else and end up fighting in his club. Rafe also wants to protect the innocent but through offering protection through his pack. While they both want the same thing Adri struggles with the thought of ownership under an Alpha. It's no secret that cats like their independence. Jaguars aren't pack animals like wolves are, plus Rafe would never want to strip anyone of their rights, but being with his mate, being with Adri is what he wants more than anything, but he also won't push him when the younger shifter isn't ready. The tension is fantastic! Along with all the build up of cat vs. wolf. I loved the banter which led to trusting and eventually loving one another. It's truly all the little things that made their relationship stronger and so darn good to read!!
Review of advance copy
⭐️ 3.5 stars ⭐️
Just like the last installment, I wasn’t all that interested in the mafia politics/evil experiments plot line. I was here for cute jaguar shifter being a cuddly kitty for his mate. I mean, wolves are fine, they can be cute. But a big purring kiggy?? Eeeeeeee
The purring, the head-butting, the kneading. How can I care about anything else when you’re giving me that? It’s too precious.
The rest of the book was…okay. The romance was hot, but I couldn’t really feel those thirteen years of pining. The plot, like I said, not all that interesting (villains making a controllable army is a bit of an overused plot).
The characters lacked some depth to really make me fall for them.
Honestly, if Adrian was anything other than a jaguar shifter, I don’t think I would’ve enjoyed this as much. I didn’t enjoy it much as it is, but the cat mannerisms were cute enough to pull me through.
A fun shifter romance, but overall my least fave of the series. Didn’t hate it, didn’t love it.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Wolf vs jaguar shifters
- Fated mates
- Violence
- Mild gore
- Medical experimentation
- Kidnapping
- Vers MCs
- MC w/ ridged dick
- Biting
- Scent-marking
- Magical orgasm control/forced orgasms
- Face-fucking
- Coming untouched
- Frotting
- Rimming
- Knotting
“When you’re ready to let your pain go, I will take it from you.” Adri swallowed hard.
“You promise?” he whispered.
Just like the last installment, I wasn’t all that interested in the mafia politics/evil experiments plot line. I was here for cute jaguar shifter being a cuddly kitty for his mate. I mean, wolves are fine, they can be cute. But a big purring kiggy?? Eeeeeeee
“Oh, kitten. You’re so beautiful like this,” Rafe whispered, reaching down to run his hand down Adri’s neck and grip his scruff. Adri’s chest rumbled in a purr, and he leaned into Rafe’s leg, twisting to lick a stripe up the doc’s wrist with his rough tongue.
Mortification filled him as, instead of telling the doc to shut up like he wanted to, a rumbling purr started vibrating his chest and he butted his head under Rafe’s chin as his cat’s instincts overrode his better judgement.
The purring, the head-butting, the kneading. How can I care about anything else when you’re giving me that? It’s too precious.
“You’re the most patient wolf I’ve ever met.” Rafe smiled, leaning forward to nuzzle under his ear. “You’re worth the wait, kitten.”
The rest of the book was…okay. The romance was hot, but I couldn’t really feel those thirteen years of pining. The plot, like I said, not all that interesting (villains making a controllable army is a bit of an overused plot).
The characters lacked some depth to really make me fall for them.
Honestly, if Adrian was anything other than a jaguar shifter, I don’t think I would’ve enjoyed this as much. I didn’t enjoy it much as it is, but the cat mannerisms were cute enough to pull me through.
A fun shifter romance, but overall my least fave of the series. Didn’t hate it, didn’t love it.
It was everything Rafe had always wanted. Everything Adri had defied for so many years. It was just everything.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Wolf vs jaguar shifters
- Fated mates
- Violence
- Mild gore
- Medical experimentation
- Kidnapping
- Vers MCs
- MC w/ ridged dick
- Biting
- Scent-marking
- Magical orgasm control/forced orgasms
- Face-fucking
- Coming untouched
- Frotting
- Rimming
- Knotting
March 16, 2026
excellent PNR romance
Rating: 4🌈
“The Lunetti Pack is a steamy MM Enemies to Lovers Paranormal Romance series set in New Trinity, a city ruled by three crime families: the Lunetti Pack of mafia wolf shifters, the vampire mobster Cruor Coven, and the witch Elemental Mayhem MC. It features knotting (and other paranormal fun) but no mpreg.”
His Mate By Defiance is the penultimate story in Mel Aitchess’ paranormal mafia crime fated mate series. The Lunetti Pack has followed several top level members of this criminal wolf shifter pack as they fight to keep their place and power in the trinity of politics that’s New Trinity City, a dark horror of a city where it’s divided into sections ruled by witches, vampires or shifters, depending on the territory.
This is Rafe, the pack doctor’s romance, one that starts years prior with his first encounter with a badly injured young jaguar shifter in an underground fighting ring.
This meeting is recapped here and then we come forward to present day, where the jaguar shifter, Adrian ,aka Adri, is still part of the fight scene.
The author does an excellent job explaining Adri’s background and meshing that with the natural history/instincts of the jaguar to give Adri a distinctive personality and outlook from that of the other shifters.
And Rafe, as someone older and with different skill sets, has a perspective on what their relationship and how it might develop than Adri has.
Their dynamic is excellent and is the best thing about the story.
There’s also another aspect of the book, a continuation plot that’s not resolved here but will continue into the final story. It sets up the last fated mates match.
But the lack of at least some sort of completion to some aspect of this complicated conspiracy left me frustrated.
The romance was certainly completed but it’s a HFN, and far too many people were hurt and issues left unresolved.
I am certainly looking forward to the last book to see how it all wraps up. If you like to binge, wait until it’s finished, and read right through.
A definite winner.
Lunetti Pack (5 book series) :
- [x] His Mate By Vengeance #1 - Angelo and Vin
- [x] His Mate By Resistance #2 - Luca and Cal
- [x] His Mate By Allegiance #3 - Rocco and Emilio
- [x] His Mate By Defiance #4 - Rafe and Adri
- [ ] His Mate By Dominance #5 - Alpha Marco and Seth’s, the finale. Feb, 21,2027
Rating: 4🌈
“The Lunetti Pack is a steamy MM Enemies to Lovers Paranormal Romance series set in New Trinity, a city ruled by three crime families: the Lunetti Pack of mafia wolf shifters, the vampire mobster Cruor Coven, and the witch Elemental Mayhem MC. It features knotting (and other paranormal fun) but no mpreg.”
His Mate By Defiance is the penultimate story in Mel Aitchess’ paranormal mafia crime fated mate series. The Lunetti Pack has followed several top level members of this criminal wolf shifter pack as they fight to keep their place and power in the trinity of politics that’s New Trinity City, a dark horror of a city where it’s divided into sections ruled by witches, vampires or shifters, depending on the territory.
This is Rafe, the pack doctor’s romance, one that starts years prior with his first encounter with a badly injured young jaguar shifter in an underground fighting ring.
This meeting is recapped here and then we come forward to present day, where the jaguar shifter, Adrian ,aka Adri, is still part of the fight scene.
The author does an excellent job explaining Adri’s background and meshing that with the natural history/instincts of the jaguar to give Adri a distinctive personality and outlook from that of the other shifters.
And Rafe, as someone older and with different skill sets, has a perspective on what their relationship and how it might develop than Adri has.
Their dynamic is excellent and is the best thing about the story.
There’s also another aspect of the book, a continuation plot that’s not resolved here but will continue into the final story. It sets up the last fated mates match.
But the lack of at least some sort of completion to some aspect of this complicated conspiracy left me frustrated.
The romance was certainly completed but it’s a HFN, and far too many people were hurt and issues left unresolved.
I am certainly looking forward to the last book to see how it all wraps up. If you like to binge, wait until it’s finished, and read right through.
A definite winner.
Lunetti Pack (5 book series) :
- [x] His Mate By Vengeance #1 - Angelo and Vin
- [x] His Mate By Resistance #2 - Luca and Cal
- [x] His Mate By Allegiance #3 - Rocco and Emilio
- [x] His Mate By Defiance #4 - Rafe and Adri
- [ ] His Mate By Dominance #5 - Alpha Marco and Seth’s, the finale. Feb, 21,2027
March 13, 2026
Firstly, let me say I got this book from gay romance reviews and this is me leaving my honest review.
Wow I could not put this Book down. It was so good we have got Rafe who is a wolf shifter Doctor with a little bit of a magic twist. When he is called to a illegal fighting ring to heal a fighter he comes face-to-face with his mate. He could feel the pull but what he saw in front of him made his wolf cry because it was a broken man and he had to use nearly all his magic to heal him because he had another fight that his owner was making him fight that night. His name he was given was crusher. Rafe could sense that he was too young and fiercely independent to come face-to-face with his mate so he didn’t say anything but he did ask for his real name and it was Adri. It was clear that this Jaguar shifter was fiercely independent and wouldn’t understand the bond like Rafe’s wolf does. Rafe makes him a promise that night that if he ever needs help, he can call any time and Rafe will be there for him.
For 13 years Rafe kept his word to stay away but when the illegal fighting ring was taken over by the Lunetti Pack things changed. Adri was still fairly independent and even though Marco the alpha of the pack had told him his debts had been paid he wanted to start working off the debts of the younger fighters. Rafe was not happy but understood that this was part of being a Jaguar shifter.
There is so much going on in this book and I have to be honest and say my heart went out for Rafe. What a patient Wolf shifter he is. But I have to agree that he made the best call to wait until Adri came around to understanding what a mate meant. They have chemistry and passion that is off the charts. there’s other storylines happening within the pack but I was just blown away with how perfect they were for one another. Such a great read.
But I also cannot wait for Marco’s book. As soon as we met that young vampire I knew in my heart who would be perfect for him. Super super excited..
Wow I could not put this Book down. It was so good we have got Rafe who is a wolf shifter Doctor with a little bit of a magic twist. When he is called to a illegal fighting ring to heal a fighter he comes face-to-face with his mate. He could feel the pull but what he saw in front of him made his wolf cry because it was a broken man and he had to use nearly all his magic to heal him because he had another fight that his owner was making him fight that night. His name he was given was crusher. Rafe could sense that he was too young and fiercely independent to come face-to-face with his mate so he didn’t say anything but he did ask for his real name and it was Adri. It was clear that this Jaguar shifter was fiercely independent and wouldn’t understand the bond like Rafe’s wolf does. Rafe makes him a promise that night that if he ever needs help, he can call any time and Rafe will be there for him.
For 13 years Rafe kept his word to stay away but when the illegal fighting ring was taken over by the Lunetti Pack things changed. Adri was still fairly independent and even though Marco the alpha of the pack had told him his debts had been paid he wanted to start working off the debts of the younger fighters. Rafe was not happy but understood that this was part of being a Jaguar shifter.
There is so much going on in this book and I have to be honest and say my heart went out for Rafe. What a patient Wolf shifter he is. But I have to agree that he made the best call to wait until Adri came around to understanding what a mate meant. They have chemistry and passion that is off the charts. there’s other storylines happening within the pack but I was just blown away with how perfect they were for one another. Such a great read.
But I also cannot wait for Marco’s book. As soon as we met that young vampire I knew in my heart who would be perfect for him. Super super excited..
Review of advance copy received from Author
**********Contains Spoilers**********
I really enjoyed this book and thought that it was another good addition to the Lunetti Pack Series. This book follows on from the newsletter freebie prequel novella, Defy His Mate where Rafe & Adri met and Rafe knew that they’re mates but don’t worry if you haven’t read that as Mel included it at the start of this book. The world of New Trinity run by three crime families, the Lunetti Pack (wolves), the Cruor Coven (vampires) & the Elemental Mayhem MC (witches) that the author has created is extremely interesting. Rafe & Adri’s happily ever after is thirteen years in the making. I thought that Rafe and Adri were great together and their chemistry was completely off the charts. Rafe definitely uses his healing magic on Adri in some creative and exciting ways.
Even though Rafe recognised that Adri was his mate all those years ago, he agreed to Adri’s need for space because he knows that because Adri is a jaguar shifter he won’t feel the bond like he does as a wolf shifter, he was also brought up with his human father’s family so he knows very little about shifters and how bonds work and he was pretty young, even if shifter standards. I liked seeing Adri be all protective of Rafe when he’s in danger, his natural instincts to protect his mate come to the forefront even if he has know idea that’s the reason for it. I’m looking forward to reading Marco’s story, His Mate By Dominance when it’s released next year but it’s also bittersweet since it’s the last book in this amazing series. I’m also looking forward to reading more books by Mel in the future. I’d recommend this book, series and author to others.
******I received a complimentary copy of this book through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
I really enjoyed this book and thought that it was another good addition to the Lunetti Pack Series. This book follows on from the newsletter freebie prequel novella, Defy His Mate where Rafe & Adri met and Rafe knew that they’re mates but don’t worry if you haven’t read that as Mel included it at the start of this book. The world of New Trinity run by three crime families, the Lunetti Pack (wolves), the Cruor Coven (vampires) & the Elemental Mayhem MC (witches) that the author has created is extremely interesting. Rafe & Adri’s happily ever after is thirteen years in the making. I thought that Rafe and Adri were great together and their chemistry was completely off the charts. Rafe definitely uses his healing magic on Adri in some creative and exciting ways.
Even though Rafe recognised that Adri was his mate all those years ago, he agreed to Adri’s need for space because he knows that because Adri is a jaguar shifter he won’t feel the bond like he does as a wolf shifter, he was also brought up with his human father’s family so he knows very little about shifters and how bonds work and he was pretty young, even if shifter standards. I liked seeing Adri be all protective of Rafe when he’s in danger, his natural instincts to protect his mate come to the forefront even if he has know idea that’s the reason for it. I’m looking forward to reading Marco’s story, His Mate By Dominance when it’s released next year but it’s also bittersweet since it’s the last book in this amazing series. I’m also looking forward to reading more books by Mel in the future. I’d recommend this book, series and author to others.
******I received a complimentary copy of this book through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
Independent reviewer for GRR, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 4 in the Lunetti Pack series and I do recommend you read the previous books before this one. Someone is out for the Lunetti Pack and the back story will help. There is also a short book, that not only introduces the Lunetti Pack, but it gives Adri and Rafe's first meeting. I have not read that book, but I don't feel I missed anything, cos much of that meeting is in this book.
13 years. 13 years, Rafe has waited for Adri, but no more. The darn cat will recover from his latest injuries in Rafe's bed and they WILL get to know each other, dammit!
I love this pack and the people in it, but these two might just be my favourite!
Rafe is a wolf, and Adri is a cat and they head butt throughout the book, in the best way!
The romance is slow to build, but I think for these two, it was right and proper. The mating takes right til near the end, but Rafe was waiting for Adri to make the decision. He would have waite forever, he really would. Probably would have agreed to be with Adri, but unmated, if that's what Adri wanted.
There is some violence here, Adri is part of a fight ring that has been targeted by whomever is after the Lunetti Pack. Not entirely sure if the D-2s have been in other books (I've been to sleep soince I read them!) but that is who the bad guys are here. The steam level, I thought, was on the lower side, but no less effective for these two. Since Rafe is waiting for Adri, it does take time for them to get down and dirty.
Marco is next. I have been waiting for him to get his HEA, and given how he feels about his pack getting theirs, it's right and proper that his story is the last one.
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is book 4 in the Lunetti Pack series and I do recommend you read the previous books before this one. Someone is out for the Lunetti Pack and the back story will help. There is also a short book, that not only introduces the Lunetti Pack, but it gives Adri and Rafe's first meeting. I have not read that book, but I don't feel I missed anything, cos much of that meeting is in this book.
13 years. 13 years, Rafe has waited for Adri, but no more. The darn cat will recover from his latest injuries in Rafe's bed and they WILL get to know each other, dammit!
I love this pack and the people in it, but these two might just be my favourite!
Rafe is a wolf, and Adri is a cat and they head butt throughout the book, in the best way!
The romance is slow to build, but I think for these two, it was right and proper. The mating takes right til near the end, but Rafe was waiting for Adri to make the decision. He would have waite forever, he really would. Probably would have agreed to be with Adri, but unmated, if that's what Adri wanted.
There is some violence here, Adri is part of a fight ring that has been targeted by whomever is after the Lunetti Pack. Not entirely sure if the D-2s have been in other books (I've been to sleep soince I read them!) but that is who the bad guys are here. The steam level, I thought, was on the lower side, but no less effective for these two. Since Rafe is waiting for Adri, it does take time for them to get down and dirty.
Marco is next. I have been waiting for him to get his HEA, and given how he feels about his pack getting theirs, it's right and proper that his story is the last one.
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
March 15, 2026
To confirm you need to have read the previous books in this series, it cannot be read as a standalone otherwise you’ll really be a sea in respect of the overarching plot. I’ve also read the prequel - 0.5 - and that also sets up this book, you can get away with not reading that one.
I was already on tenterhooks going into this given what happened in the last chapter of book 3, and despite Adri having shifter strength it was tough on him to recover. Fortunately Rafe is a kickass doctor and managed to save him.
Now I thought Adri was a bit silly in his refusal of the mate bond, he had incorrect assumptions about it due to his background and I think we could have had more around explaining this to him. It could have saved Rafe a lot of waiting around!
I did like that Rafe took the time to build a relationship with Adri and didn’t just bulldoze over him. Also seeing them spend time together in shifted form was great, I really enjoy that side of shifter books, and I would have liked more.
There was a lot of plot progression with our terrorist group and we got way more info on the why and how side of things. That was excellent for me as o felt the last couple of books have been building this up/setting the scene and now we are getting into the nitty gritty.
Sex scenes were hot, as usual with this author, but were proportionate to the length of the book. I don’t like them constantly and prefer plot with a few well developed scenes.
Set up for the next book has me super looking forward to this. It’s going to hit all my overprotective big MC with tiny MC who needs saving buttons.
I got this as an ARC from gayroymancereviews.com and this is an honest opinion. I would have read it anyway given I’ve been following the series.
I was already on tenterhooks going into this given what happened in the last chapter of book 3, and despite Adri having shifter strength it was tough on him to recover. Fortunately Rafe is a kickass doctor and managed to save him.
Now I thought Adri was a bit silly in his refusal of the mate bond, he had incorrect assumptions about it due to his background and I think we could have had more around explaining this to him. It could have saved Rafe a lot of waiting around!
I did like that Rafe took the time to build a relationship with Adri and didn’t just bulldoze over him. Also seeing them spend time together in shifted form was great, I really enjoy that side of shifter books, and I would have liked more.
There was a lot of plot progression with our terrorist group and we got way more info on the why and how side of things. That was excellent for me as o felt the last couple of books have been building this up/setting the scene and now we are getting into the nitty gritty.
Sex scenes were hot, as usual with this author, but were proportionate to the length of the book. I don’t like them constantly and prefer plot with a few well developed scenes.
Set up for the next book has me super looking forward to this. It’s going to hit all my overprotective big MC with tiny MC who needs saving buttons.
I got this as an ARC from gayroymancereviews.com and this is an honest opinion. I would have read it anyway given I’ve been following the series.
March 15, 2026
Such a great series and this addition really leant into the emotional side of fated mates, and I liked how much time the story gives to trust and healing rather than rushing straight into the romance. Rafe stood out to me straight away. He’s steady, capable, and incredibly patient, thirteen years is a long time to wait for someone who isn’t ready to accept the bond between them. His quiet determination and the way he keeps showing up when Adri needs him made him very easy to root for.
Adri’s resistance also makes a lot of sense given everything he’s been through. After years of being controlled and forced into brutal fighting, the idea of belonging to someone, even a mate is understandably frightening. His instinct to keep people at arm’s length felt realistic, and the story does a good job of letting him slowly work through that fear rather than brushing it aside.
There’s a strong hurt/comfort thread running throughout the book, especially once Rafe finally refuses to step back and takes a more active role in protecting Adri. Their chemistry is intense, and while the physical side of their relationship definitely brings the heat, the emotional connection is what really sells it. Watching Adri gradually realise that Rafe isn’t trying to control him, but genuinely wants to stand beside him, made the eventual payoff feel well deserved.
The wider plot with the fighting rings and feral shifters adds some tension and keeps things moving outside of the romance, giving both characters something bigger to fight against while they figure out what they mean to each other.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
Adri’s resistance also makes a lot of sense given everything he’s been through. After years of being controlled and forced into brutal fighting, the idea of belonging to someone, even a mate is understandably frightening. His instinct to keep people at arm’s length felt realistic, and the story does a good job of letting him slowly work through that fear rather than brushing it aside.
There’s a strong hurt/comfort thread running throughout the book, especially once Rafe finally refuses to step back and takes a more active role in protecting Adri. Their chemistry is intense, and while the physical side of their relationship definitely brings the heat, the emotional connection is what really sells it. Watching Adri gradually realise that Rafe isn’t trying to control him, but genuinely wants to stand beside him, made the eventual payoff feel well deserved.
The wider plot with the fighting rings and feral shifters adds some tension and keeps things moving outside of the romance, giving both characters something bigger to fight against while they figure out what they mean to each other.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
March 14, 2026
Rafe walked away from his much younger jaguar mate, once. He decided to 'play the long game', not imagining that it would be thirteen years. When a feral wolf fighter nearly ripped Adri's arm off, Rafe was there. And he wasn't going anywhere.
The glimpses of Rafe in earlier books portrayed him as a not so loveable grump, and a bit of a jerk. Book three gave him more page time, but I couldn't see him as a MC with a book of his own. So the Rafe from chapter one and the pre-chapters was a surprise.
Kidnapped and sold to the owner of an underground fight ring at age eighteen, Adrien (Adri) is relationship adverse. He equates it with control. And he's nevah evah gonna be controlled again. Blah, blah, blah. I got it. The first half dozen times it was mentioned. I got it. There are so many reviews picturing him as the quintessential 'black cat' . So, I guess I was the only one who found the scenery chewing annoying? The whole pushing Rafe away with one hand, and pulling him in closer with the other, was a bit dizzying. Although, the sizzle was hot.
The plotline was a bloody octopus. There were multiple ars, the bonding/non bonding merry-go-round, Rafe's research into feralness, the fighters/missing shifters, accidents at the vamp controlled docks, destruction at the clinic. Wow. It all circles back to the human group that wants to rid the world of the supernatural. Some arcs were resolved. Others are awaiting the main event (and probable series closer). Book five is going to be Alpha Marco's story.
I received an advanced copy of this e book and this is my review.
The glimpses of Rafe in earlier books portrayed him as a not so loveable grump, and a bit of a jerk. Book three gave him more page time, but I couldn't see him as a MC with a book of his own. So the Rafe from chapter one and the pre-chapters was a surprise.
Kidnapped and sold to the owner of an underground fight ring at age eighteen, Adrien (Adri) is relationship adverse. He equates it with control. And he's nevah evah gonna be controlled again. Blah, blah, blah. I got it. The first half dozen times it was mentioned. I got it. There are so many reviews picturing him as the quintessential 'black cat' . So, I guess I was the only one who found the scenery chewing annoying? The whole pushing Rafe away with one hand, and pulling him in closer with the other, was a bit dizzying. Although, the sizzle was hot.
The plotline was a bloody octopus. There were multiple ars, the bonding/non bonding merry-go-round, Rafe's research into feralness, the fighters/missing shifters, accidents at the vamp controlled docks, destruction at the clinic. Wow. It all circles back to the human group that wants to rid the world of the supernatural. Some arcs were resolved. Others are awaiting the main event (and probable series closer). Book five is going to be Alpha Marco's story.
I received an advanced copy of this e book and this is my review.
March 14, 2026
bratting kitten, tuna for kitten, immolation, brain microchip, magic healing orgasm, glittery boxing safety gear, metallic jockstrap, targeted EMP, meat pie, vampire informant
This is very good! Because it's about an underground fight ring fighter, Adrien 'Adri' Carter, there's a lot of violence and action. Adri is also a jaguar shifter. On the flip side of the coin is Lunetti pack doctor/healer Rafe. Rafe is a wolf shifter and part of the Lunetti pack alpha Marco's inner circle.
The book opens in the past when Rafe sees Adri and scents him as his mate. Adri won't have it. After all, he's a jaguar, a loner by nature. Adri is up for a hookup, but Rafe wants his mate. Rafe is willing to be patient until he can get Adri to trust him and accept him as his mate.
13 years later, Adri is still with the Lunetti fight ring. He's amazed that Rafe listened and stayed away. Rafe is still being patient for Adri. Until Adri ends up mangled from fighting match. His opponent went feral. Also young shifter fighters are going missing, and a fighter mysteriously bursts into flames.
Like the previous books, I absolutely enjoyed reading this. The suspense and intrigue seriously grabbed onto me. There's a series cliffhanger. The next book is supposed to be the finale of the "Lunetti Pack" series. I avidly recommend this book.
This is very good! Because it's about an underground fight ring fighter, Adrien 'Adri' Carter, there's a lot of violence and action. Adri is also a jaguar shifter. On the flip side of the coin is Lunetti pack doctor/healer Rafe. Rafe is a wolf shifter and part of the Lunetti pack alpha Marco's inner circle.
The book opens in the past when Rafe sees Adri and scents him as his mate. Adri won't have it. After all, he's a jaguar, a loner by nature. Adri is up for a hookup, but Rafe wants his mate. Rafe is willing to be patient until he can get Adri to trust him and accept him as his mate.
13 years later, Adri is still with the Lunetti fight ring. He's amazed that Rafe listened and stayed away. Rafe is still being patient for Adri. Until Adri ends up mangled from fighting match. His opponent went feral. Also young shifter fighters are going missing, and a fighter mysteriously bursts into flames.
Like the previous books, I absolutely enjoyed reading this. The suspense and intrigue seriously grabbed onto me. There's a series cliffhanger. The next book is supposed to be the finale of the "Lunetti Pack" series. I avidly recommend this book.
March 15, 2026
Finally, Rafe and Adri
The wait for these two has seemed interminable, but that's what happens when a couple really catch your eye and imagination then other books in the series come first.
Adri doesn't make it easy on either of them. A bolshie, guarded, fiercely independent jaguar shifter, he answers to no one, not even the sexy silver fox doctor who got under his skin over a decade ago and who he avoids like the plague.
Goodness knows how Rafe manages to be so patient but the wolf shifter knows that his skittish kitten will bolt and never be seen again if Rafe tells him they are mates.
Their story was one of longing, even if Adri was extremely reticent about his feelings, but Rafe knew why Adri was the way he was and respected his wishes. Watching them take baby steps, essentially, in their 'not-relationship' was so rewarding, especially when Adri couldn't hold back his purring.
The story arc continuing through the series takes an even more serious turn here, Adri and Rafe in the firing line and we get to see Marco, the pack alpha, and the other couples from the previous books backing them up. It must all come to a head in the next book, the last of the series, and I'm looking forward to a reckoning for all those involved in the heinous crimes.
I can't wait to see Marco's HEA, because he thoroughly deserves to be happy after years of grief and heartache.
The wait for these two has seemed interminable, but that's what happens when a couple really catch your eye and imagination then other books in the series come first.
Adri doesn't make it easy on either of them. A bolshie, guarded, fiercely independent jaguar shifter, he answers to no one, not even the sexy silver fox doctor who got under his skin over a decade ago and who he avoids like the plague.
Goodness knows how Rafe manages to be so patient but the wolf shifter knows that his skittish kitten will bolt and never be seen again if Rafe tells him they are mates.
Their story was one of longing, even if Adri was extremely reticent about his feelings, but Rafe knew why Adri was the way he was and respected his wishes. Watching them take baby steps, essentially, in their 'not-relationship' was so rewarding, especially when Adri couldn't hold back his purring.
The story arc continuing through the series takes an even more serious turn here, Adri and Rafe in the firing line and we get to see Marco, the pack alpha, and the other couples from the previous books backing them up. It must all come to a head in the next book, the last of the series, and I'm looking forward to a reckoning for all those involved in the heinous crimes.
I can't wait to see Marco's HEA, because he thoroughly deserves to be happy after years of grief and heartache.
Review of advance copy
Oooooh, this one has been a long time coming. I’ve been desperate for more Rafe and Adri since reading To Defy His Mate. The tension between these two for much of this book is delicious. Honestly, the amount of patience Rafe possesses is astounding. Thirteen years of fighting instinct because his mate is prickly and mostly clueless. I can’t even imagine the arguments he must have had with himself, the torment of knowing Adri was out there doing who knows what with who knows who. And yet Rafe remains loyal and kind and understanding.
Adri…well, the fact that he’s a cat really kind of explains him entirely, doesn’t it? I adore that the similarities between house cats and Adri’s character were explicitly used in the book because honestly, if you’ve ever lived with a cat, it makes perfect sense.
The plot in this one really ramps up. I’m so incredibly invested in what happens with the D-2S group and how the Lunetti pack copes with their evil shenanigans. The tension in the latter half of this story had me turning pages like an addict.
This is such a great series and I can’t wait to binge it all together once the last book comes out (which I am particularly excited about because Marco deserves a happy ending so very much).
Adri…well, the fact that he’s a cat really kind of explains him entirely, doesn’t it? I adore that the similarities between house cats and Adri’s character were explicitly used in the book because honestly, if you’ve ever lived with a cat, it makes perfect sense.
The plot in this one really ramps up. I’m so incredibly invested in what happens with the D-2S group and how the Lunetti pack copes with their evil shenanigans. The tension in the latter half of this story had me turning pages like an addict.
This is such a great series and I can’t wait to binge it all together once the last book comes out (which I am particularly excited about because Marco deserves a happy ending so very much).
March 11, 2026
HIS MATE BY DEFIANCE is the fourth book in the Lunetti Pack series, and after thirteen years of patiently waiting, Doc Rafe is about to claim his mate.
Rafe and Adri originally met in To Defy His Mate, but you don't need to worry if you haven't read it, as there is a prologue that brings you up to speed. Suffice to say, Rafe knows Adri is his mate, but being a contrary cat means Adri won't admit it and keeps Rafe as far away as he possibly can.
Rafe and Adri make a great pair, and I loved the cat mannerisms that Adri had, as well as him reaching the stage where he didn't care if anyone saw him claim Rafe. I was afraid it would be a little one-sided, but it's not. Adri just needed some time to catch up.
The overarching story continues to move forward, this time dragging Adri along with it. I am interested to know how it will come to a head.
This was a great addition to the series, and I look forward to Marco and Seth's story. Definitely recommended by me.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 11, 2026
Rafe and Adri originally met in To Defy His Mate, but you don't need to worry if you haven't read it, as there is a prologue that brings you up to speed. Suffice to say, Rafe knows Adri is his mate, but being a contrary cat means Adri won't admit it and keeps Rafe as far away as he possibly can.
Rafe and Adri make a great pair, and I loved the cat mannerisms that Adri had, as well as him reaching the stage where he didn't care if anyone saw him claim Rafe. I was afraid it would be a little one-sided, but it's not. Adri just needed some time to catch up.
The overarching story continues to move forward, this time dragging Adri along with it. I am interested to know how it will come to a head.
This was a great addition to the series, and I look forward to Marco and Seth's story. Definitely recommended by me.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 11, 2026
March 21, 2026
4.5 stars
This is book four of the author’s Lunetti Pack series and features Rafe, the older Lunetti pack doctor and Adri, a young jaguar shifter fighter who is hellbent on resisting Rafe’s desire to care for his mate.
This was such an awesome book! Rafe was so incredibly patient with Adri, like thirteen years patient, which just melted my heart. Sometimes I wanted to just smack some sense into Adri but he wasn’t bad, just kinda mistrustful though the way he fought to protect the younger fighters from harm, kinda made me love him too.
If ever there were a couple who had a more hard earned HEA than our two MCs, I can’t think who it would be. Though they got their HEA, the overarching story continues into book five with Marco, hopefully, finding his mate and finally putting a stop to the feral fighting ring.
Readers who love shifter romance with fated mates really need to check this out! It starts off with a little of the backstory from previous books so you’re not totally lost but it would definitely be more enjoyable after reading them all in order and trust me, it won’t be a hardship! This is an awesome book in an awesome series! 4.5 stars
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is book four of the author’s Lunetti Pack series and features Rafe, the older Lunetti pack doctor and Adri, a young jaguar shifter fighter who is hellbent on resisting Rafe’s desire to care for his mate.
This was such an awesome book! Rafe was so incredibly patient with Adri, like thirteen years patient, which just melted my heart. Sometimes I wanted to just smack some sense into Adri but he wasn’t bad, just kinda mistrustful though the way he fought to protect the younger fighters from harm, kinda made me love him too.
If ever there were a couple who had a more hard earned HEA than our two MCs, I can’t think who it would be. Though they got their HEA, the overarching story continues into book five with Marco, hopefully, finding his mate and finally putting a stop to the feral fighting ring.
Readers who love shifter romance with fated mates really need to check this out! It starts off with a little of the backstory from previous books so you’re not totally lost but it would definitely be more enjoyable after reading them all in order and trust me, it won’t be a hardship! This is an awesome book in an awesome series! 4.5 stars
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
We need to take a moment to talk about the headbutts. OMG! Why do I love them so much?
Every time Adri—completely unintentionally—nudged Rafe with his head, I could have squealed with delight. The emotional slow burn is captivating, yet it fuels the fear of what is yet to come.
I was trembling. And then came another little headbutt.
Awww. My heart!
Okay, now real talk! Did I find their story beautiful? Definitely. Did they take their time? Hell yes. But it was worth the wait. Rafe says so too, so we can leave it at that.
I'm truly fascinated by how the stories in this series are so different and yet have one thing in common: they captivate you, they make your heart beat faster, and they make you feel like you're part of the pack.
Mel - I loved it!
Which is my favorite couple? Hmmm, I don't know. Every time I've made up my mind, I can think of a reason why another couple should be number one.
And what's that on the last two pages??? F*** finally! I can't wait. Really. I won't sleep, rest, or eat until I can read the story of our alpha.
Okay, I will eat, sleep, and so on, but... I can't wait.
Recommended reading. From the heart. For the heart. And... headbutt.
Every time Adri—completely unintentionally—nudged Rafe with his head, I could have squealed with delight. The emotional slow burn is captivating, yet it fuels the fear of what is yet to come.
I was trembling. And then came another little headbutt.
Awww. My heart!
Okay, now real talk! Did I find their story beautiful? Definitely. Did they take their time? Hell yes. But it was worth the wait. Rafe says so too, so we can leave it at that.
I'm truly fascinated by how the stories in this series are so different and yet have one thing in common: they captivate you, they make your heart beat faster, and they make you feel like you're part of the pack.
Mel - I loved it!
Which is my favorite couple? Hmmm, I don't know. Every time I've made up my mind, I can think of a reason why another couple should be number one.
And what's that on the last two pages??? F*** finally! I can't wait. Really. I won't sleep, rest, or eat until I can read the story of our alpha.
Okay, I will eat, sleep, and so on, but... I can't wait.
Recommended reading. From the heart. For the heart. And... headbutt.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fourth in series (Lunetti Pack), best if read in order. Paranormal. Fated mates. Age gap. Hurt/comfort. Found family. Dual POV. Heed content warnings.
Adrien is an independent jaguar shifter making his living fighting and he doesn’t want to be tied down by anything, especially not a mate or pack. Rafe is a healer wolf shifter that has waited years since first meeting his mate, and letting Adrien choose is the priority even as Rafe protects him.
I really enjoyed this story of Rafe the mature patient caretaker and the feisty and also caring Adri. Both these men have big hearts for their found families and are loyal and determined in their own right. Every time they are on page together it sizzles, so there is plenty of steam as well as the inevitable fall which even aided by the mate pull also allowed Adri and Rafe to get to know and appreciate each other. The overarching plotline continues as the pack is fighting against the baddies in the territory where the danger is increasing as we head toward the series finale. Still super invested in this series and the Lunetti pack. 4.5 rounded up
Adrien is an independent jaguar shifter making his living fighting and he doesn’t want to be tied down by anything, especially not a mate or pack. Rafe is a healer wolf shifter that has waited years since first meeting his mate, and letting Adrien choose is the priority even as Rafe protects him.
I really enjoyed this story of Rafe the mature patient caretaker and the feisty and also caring Adri. Both these men have big hearts for their found families and are loyal and determined in their own right. Every time they are on page together it sizzles, so there is plenty of steam as well as the inevitable fall which even aided by the mate pull also allowed Adri and Rafe to get to know and appreciate each other. The overarching plotline continues as the pack is fighting against the baddies in the territory where the danger is increasing as we head toward the series finale. Still super invested in this series and the Lunetti pack. 4.5 rounded up
Review of advance copy
Rafe & Adrien (Adri)
"Rafe had shown him over and over again for more than a decade that he was there for him, and Adri could finally believe that care came with no strings."
The resilience and patience for Rafe to wait 13 years for his time to come with Adri is incredible. Fated connections are hard enough to resist in most fictional fantasy/paranormal universes, and that makes Rafe's avoidance so admirable. He loved Adri the entire time they were apart but never let that truly interfere with what he needed to be doing in that time, while also subtly helping his mate. Watching as Adri comes to the realization of how much Rafe was in his life while he didn't know it was really sweet, because you could see that Adri was being pulled into Rafe and their connection & mate bond while recognizing his ever-growing feelings of love for him.
His Mate By Defiance was another incredible read of the Lunetti Pack series and added far more mystery & danger around the D2S's that the crew is still dealing with. Finding that missing link has been and likely will be an interesting challenge.
I am so looking forward to the intensity that the story from Marco will bring. He's had to witness all of these wonderful mate bonds form all around him while thinking that his time to truly love had passed.
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
"Rafe had shown him over and over again for more than a decade that he was there for him, and Adri could finally believe that care came with no strings."
The resilience and patience for Rafe to wait 13 years for his time to come with Adri is incredible. Fated connections are hard enough to resist in most fictional fantasy/paranormal universes, and that makes Rafe's avoidance so admirable. He loved Adri the entire time they were apart but never let that truly interfere with what he needed to be doing in that time, while also subtly helping his mate. Watching as Adri comes to the realization of how much Rafe was in his life while he didn't know it was really sweet, because you could see that Adri was being pulled into Rafe and their connection & mate bond while recognizing his ever-growing feelings of love for him.
His Mate By Defiance was another incredible read of the Lunetti Pack series and added far more mystery & danger around the D2S's that the crew is still dealing with. Finding that missing link has been and likely will be an interesting challenge.
I am so looking forward to the intensity that the story from Marco will bring. He's had to witness all of these wonderful mate bonds form all around him while thinking that his time to truly love had passed.
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
March 29, 2026
Rafe and Adri were teased to us with the prelude for the series, but fear not, it is at the start of this book. I have only had to wait 2 years, but poor Rafe has been waiting 13 years for Adri and that jaguar has really made Rafe work for it.
Whilst improvements have been made on the fighting scene front, danger is still not far away, which is where we are reintroduced to Adri and Rafe.
From the moment Rafe was called in to assist Adri, I immersed myself in a story, that not only had romance, but suspense and action all from page 1. I was invested in Rafe and Adri's relationship and watching them go 1 step forward 2 steps back, I could understand Rafe's frustration. There was some humour that broke up the suspense, usually thanks to the Lunetti pack that loved to rib Adri and Rafe and I loved Adri's defiance to Marco.
This was a fast paced book that I would have read in one sitting if I did not have to go to work and I read it when ever I could.
With more learnt about Marco, I am super excited to read his HEA and will be counting down the days till it is on my kindle. In the meantime I will have to reread his pack's stories again
Whilst improvements have been made on the fighting scene front, danger is still not far away, which is where we are reintroduced to Adri and Rafe.
From the moment Rafe was called in to assist Adri, I immersed myself in a story, that not only had romance, but suspense and action all from page 1. I was invested in Rafe and Adri's relationship and watching them go 1 step forward 2 steps back, I could understand Rafe's frustration. There was some humour that broke up the suspense, usually thanks to the Lunetti pack that loved to rib Adri and Rafe and I loved Adri's defiance to Marco.
This was a fast paced book that I would have read in one sitting if I did not have to go to work and I read it when ever I could.
With more learnt about Marco, I am super excited to read his HEA and will be counting down the days till it is on my kindle. In the meantime I will have to reread his pack's stories again
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars
I really enjoyed this book, it was engaging and entertaining and had some really great characters. While this book focuses on Rafe and Adri, the overarching plot that has carried through all books in this series continues in this one with more evil and deviousness, so it is necessary to read the books in order. MC's from previous books are also present in this book as they are all integral to the overall story. Seth is a new character introduced in this book and he just broke my heart!
Rafe has the patience of a saint for waiting thirteen years for his mate to finally be ready to even admit they are mates, although Rafe did keep tabs on him from a distance.
After being enslaved and forced into illegal fighting, Adri has finally managed to have a bit of control over his life, so the idea of being mated and - to his way of thinking - controlled is not what he wants.
I loved how Rafe showed Adri in so many ways, both large and small, that he would always be there when Adri needed him and slowly earned his trust. This slow patience is what allowed Adri to finally realize what it would actually be like to have Rafe for a mate.
Their chemistry was off the charts and led to some steamy sexy times, but it was the trust and faith they finally had in one another that solidified them as perfectly matched mates, and led to their genuine love and their hard earned and long awaited HEA. Both MC's are interesting on their own, but together they are perfectly matched and compliment one another so well.
As expected, there is a lot of danger and violence in this book, as well as some great world building, but it is the bond that all the integral characters have, and especially the way that Rafe and Adri truly connected that really stays with me and makes this a book I would recommend.
I received an ARC, this review is my honest, unbiased opinion
I really enjoyed this book, it was engaging and entertaining and had some really great characters. While this book focuses on Rafe and Adri, the overarching plot that has carried through all books in this series continues in this one with more evil and deviousness, so it is necessary to read the books in order. MC's from previous books are also present in this book as they are all integral to the overall story. Seth is a new character introduced in this book and he just broke my heart!
Rafe has the patience of a saint for waiting thirteen years for his mate to finally be ready to even admit they are mates, although Rafe did keep tabs on him from a distance.
After being enslaved and forced into illegal fighting, Adri has finally managed to have a bit of control over his life, so the idea of being mated and - to his way of thinking - controlled is not what he wants.
I loved how Rafe showed Adri in so many ways, both large and small, that he would always be there when Adri needed him and slowly earned his trust. This slow patience is what allowed Adri to finally realize what it would actually be like to have Rafe for a mate.
Their chemistry was off the charts and led to some steamy sexy times, but it was the trust and faith they finally had in one another that solidified them as perfectly matched mates, and led to their genuine love and their hard earned and long awaited HEA. Both MC's are interesting on their own, but together they are perfectly matched and compliment one another so well.
As expected, there is a lot of danger and violence in this book, as well as some great world building, but it is the bond that all the integral characters have, and especially the way that Rafe and Adri truly connected that really stays with me and makes this a book I would recommend.
I received an ARC, this review is my honest, unbiased opinion
Review of advance copy
This is yet another book in the series that absolutely gripped my attention from start to finish! Rafe and Adri were a couple I was so looking forward to after reading the first few books in the series and it definitely didn't disappoint. I loved the chemistry between them and how patient Rafe was to win Adri's heart. There was brilliant character development and a build up of romance alongside the non-stop action of the wider plot. I enjoyed the return of familiar secondary characters in the pack and the world building continues to be strong. They were two characters I loved in their own right but together they're perfectly matched. I'm also completely hooked into the wider storyline with D-2S and what will likely happen next. After the teaser at the end, I'm super excited for Marco's story in the final book of the series - I can't wait to see him get his HEA! Overall, a brilliantly written mm romance with plenty of action, steam and a wonderful HEA. I'd definitely recommend it if you like this genre.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
March 15, 2026
Rafe has somewhat patiently waited for his mate for thirteen years. He has followed his fight schedule and responds whenever someone needs a doctor. Everything changes when he arrives to find Adri seriously injured, almost losing an arm to a feral shifter. Rafe realizes he cannot let Adri go and must protect him. For his part, Adri knows he does not need protecting. But danger is lurking and both men need to be alert.
Adri truly was a defiant mate. He did not want Rafe to protect him and yet at the same time, he was feeling the need to protect Rafe. Rafe was truly special as he allowed his mate a chance to decide. It was fun to watch their relationship develop. It was no problem hopping on for the roller coaster ride that their mating turned out to be. Joining them turned out to be absolutely delightful. There is only one more to go in this series. I am really looking forward to reading it.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Adri truly was a defiant mate. He did not want Rafe to protect him and yet at the same time, he was feeling the need to protect Rafe. Rafe was truly special as he allowed his mate a chance to decide. It was fun to watch their relationship develop. It was no problem hopping on for the roller coaster ride that their mating turned out to be. Joining them turned out to be absolutely delightful. There is only one more to go in this series. I am really looking forward to reading it.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
March 17, 2026
I have a handful of authors that I wait eagerly for their releases. This author is in my top 10. I have never been disappointed by any of their offerings. I love all thing paranormal but I'm picky. If you are building a new world, adjacent world, etc. I want it to make sense. All of the titles in this series stick to the conventions laid out by the author. Now the book. Silas, a wolf shifter, the salt pepper doctor to the Trinity paranormal underworld, with the patience of a saint. Adrian, a young(not to young) jaguar shifter that is so contrary. The have sizzling chemistry at first glance. But of course can't be that simple as one and done, they are fated mates. Thirteen years is a long time to wait, but Silas the every steady for so long. Being the cat he is, Adrian keep batting him away.
I really enjoyed this read. Already placed on my comfort reads folder. There is enough action to keep you engaged. The spice is always hot. I would recommend to anyone that like fated mates, hot spice, action, and swoony romance
I really enjoyed this read. Already placed on my comfort reads folder. There is enough action to keep you engaged. The spice is always hot. I would recommend to anyone that like fated mates, hot spice, action, and swoony romance
March 31, 2026
3.5 stars, for Rafe.
An interesting enough shifter romance between Rafe, the patient older wolf, and Adri, the stubborn younger jaguar who keeps refusing to choose the call of fate or submit to the pull of the Lunetti pack, of which Rafe is a member. If you like slow burn, age gap, hurt-comfort tropes, and an extra-feisty MC (sometimes unreasonably so, to my mind), in a gritty romantic suspense, you'll enjoy this story.
Rafe is a doctor and magical healer who has known that Adri is his fated mate for over a decade. He's the reason I gave this an extra half star. He's patient, powerful, and passionate, all things that Adri needs in his life. Adri is stubborn, snarky, and determined to resist the pull between them. I didn't find him nearly as compelling a character as Rafe. The suspense is typically dark and doesn't end at the end of the story. Thankfully, Rafe and Adri finally get their HEA. I'm looking forward to Marco's story. I just wonder why these wolves always seem to get tangled up with broken younger shifters.
An interesting enough shifter romance between Rafe, the patient older wolf, and Adri, the stubborn younger jaguar who keeps refusing to choose the call of fate or submit to the pull of the Lunetti pack, of which Rafe is a member. If you like slow burn, age gap, hurt-comfort tropes, and an extra-feisty MC (sometimes unreasonably so, to my mind), in a gritty romantic suspense, you'll enjoy this story.
Rafe is a doctor and magical healer who has known that Adri is his fated mate for over a decade. He's the reason I gave this an extra half star. He's patient, powerful, and passionate, all things that Adri needs in his life. Adri is stubborn, snarky, and determined to resist the pull between them. I didn't find him nearly as compelling a character as Rafe. The suspense is typically dark and doesn't end at the end of the story. Thankfully, Rafe and Adri finally get their HEA. I'm looking forward to Marco's story. I just wonder why these wolves always seem to get tangled up with broken younger shifters.
Review of advance copy received from Author
His Mate By Defiance is the 4th book in the Lunetti Pack series. In my opinion this series is best read in order. This is the story of Rafe a wolf shifter and Adri a jaguar shifter. I couldn't put this book down once I started because I have been wanting to read Rafe and Adri's story since reading the novella To Defy His Mate. This story was definitely worth the wait. These two are so perfect for each. Rafe is so patient and protective and Adri reminds me of my pet cat with some of his actions like the headbutting. The overarching plot is getting more intense as the series progresses. I love the interaction between these two and that Rafe calls Adri kitten even though he is a big bad jaguar. There is so much chemistry between these two that it's off the charts and perfectly done. I can't wait for the next book in the series because Marco deserves a mate. I would definitely recommend this book and series as 5 star reads.
received a free review copy
received a free review copy
March 14, 2026
The patient wolf gets his cat!
Wow! Rafe was not playing when he told his mate that he'd wait as long as it would take for Adrien to accept being his mate.
Adri is a jaguar shifter, skittish for good reason, indentured to an underground fighting ring. Rafe is the doc for the Lunetti pack, the pack finally takes over the fighting ring and Rafe has an even better excuse to keep a closer watch over Adri.
I have to hand it to both men that they kept their push/pull mating dance for over a decade. Adri was stubborn, though he allowed Rafe to slowly get closer, but never completely submitting. And he even stood up to Marco, the pack leader...up to a point.
Once Adri could trust in Rafe's love and that he absolutely did not want Adri to change, their relationship blossomed.
While they get their HEA, there's still the issue of an underground group that is taking shifters and making some into feral beasts. So the mystery continues 🤔
I am enjoying this series so much!
Wow! Rafe was not playing when he told his mate that he'd wait as long as it would take for Adrien to accept being his mate.
Adri is a jaguar shifter, skittish for good reason, indentured to an underground fighting ring. Rafe is the doc for the Lunetti pack, the pack finally takes over the fighting ring and Rafe has an even better excuse to keep a closer watch over Adri.
I have to hand it to both men that they kept their push/pull mating dance for over a decade. Adri was stubborn, though he allowed Rafe to slowly get closer, but never completely submitting. And he even stood up to Marco, the pack leader...up to a point.
Once Adri could trust in Rafe's love and that he absolutely did not want Adri to change, their relationship blossomed.
While they get their HEA, there's still the issue of an underground group that is taking shifters and making some into feral beasts. So the mystery continues 🤔
I am enjoying this series so much!
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