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Cuddles For The Bear
Is it true you’re an assassin? Can you kill him for me?
Devon, bear shifter assassin, had been communicating with someone online, but when the conversation takes a sinister turn, he turns to his friends for help. Days later he’s on a plane, planning to intercept the person who has his online friend captive… the Fates move in mysterious ways.
But isn’t that a better way to go? Isn’t it better to actually leave my fate in the hands of the gods instead of the man who plans to kill me anyway?
Wren’s life has been one shit-fest after another. Now, at the end of his tether, he does the only thing he thought he could do to escape his situation. But standing on a ledge, four stories high, he learns the Fates had plans for him that didn’t involve him dying anytime soon.
“Do you know anything about the paranormal world?”
Wren’s new life with Devon brings on one new surprise after another. Finding out he’s part of the paranormal world is one thing, shifting for the first time is something else entirely. But the Agency Devon works for knows what happened to Wren didn’t happen in isolation, and when Devon is pressured to interrogate Wren for information he doesn’t think he has, Wren starts to wonder if his new life is all it’s cracked up to be.
During the earlier chapters from Wren’s perspective, he is in a really negative mental state, including thoughts of suicide ideation. If this is a trigger for you, please take care of your mental health and give this story a miss.
Although Cuddles for the Bear can be read as a standalone, reading the previous two books in the series will give you a more solid background of the secondary characters and how Assassin’s Alley came to be.
Book 1: Not That Kind of Demon
Book 2: Sweets for the Crocodile
Devon, bear shifter assassin, had been communicating with someone online, but when the conversation takes a sinister turn, he turns to his friends for help. Days later he’s on a plane, planning to intercept the person who has his online friend captive… the Fates move in mysterious ways.
But isn’t that a better way to go? Isn’t it better to actually leave my fate in the hands of the gods instead of the man who plans to kill me anyway?
Wren’s life has been one shit-fest after another. Now, at the end of his tether, he does the only thing he thought he could do to escape his situation. But standing on a ledge, four stories high, he learns the Fates had plans for him that didn’t involve him dying anytime soon.
“Do you know anything about the paranormal world?”
Wren’s new life with Devon brings on one new surprise after another. Finding out he’s part of the paranormal world is one thing, shifting for the first time is something else entirely. But the Agency Devon works for knows what happened to Wren didn’t happen in isolation, and when Devon is pressured to interrogate Wren for information he doesn’t think he has, Wren starts to wonder if his new life is all it’s cracked up to be.
During the earlier chapters from Wren’s perspective, he is in a really negative mental state, including thoughts of suicide ideation. If this is a trigger for you, please take care of your mental health and give this story a miss.
Although Cuddles for the Bear can be read as a standalone, reading the previous two books in the series will give you a more solid background of the secondary characters and how Assassin’s Alley came to be.
Book 1: Not That Kind of Demon
Book 2: Sweets for the Crocodile
478 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 20, 2025
39 people are currently reading
13 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Oliver
199 books954 followersLisa Oliver had been writing non-fiction books for years when visions of half dressed, buff men started invading her dreams. Unable to resist the lure of her stories, Lisa decided to switch to fiction books, and now stories about her men clamor to get out from under her fingertips.
When Lisa is not writing, she is usually reading with a cup of tea always at hand. Her grown children and grandchildren sometimes try and pry her away from the computer and have found that the best way to do it, is to promise her chocolate. Lisa will do anything for chocolate.
Lisa loves to hear from her readers and other writers. You can friend her on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/lisaoliverauthor), or email her directly at yoursintuitively@gmail.com. If you want to chat with her on Skype, then email for contact details.
When Lisa is not writing, she is usually reading with a cup of tea always at hand. Her grown children and grandchildren sometimes try and pry her away from the computer and have found that the best way to do it, is to promise her chocolate. Lisa will do anything for chocolate.
Lisa loves to hear from her readers and other writers. You can friend her on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/lisaoliverauthor), or email her directly at yoursintuitively@gmail.com. If you want to chat with her on Skype, then email for contact details.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
November 20, 2025
Loved it
I love Lisa Oliver's writing and have truly enjoyed this entire series so far. I loved Devon and Wren's love story. Devon was such a caring person, one who was determined to save Wren even before he knew he was his fated mate. Wren had a hard, difficult life but maintained a sweet, positive disposition despite what he had endured. I loved seeing their growth as a couple.
I love Lisa Oliver's writing and have truly enjoyed this entire series so far. I loved Devon and Wren's love story. Devon was such a caring person, one who was determined to save Wren even before he knew he was his fated mate. Wren had a hard, difficult life but maintained a sweet, positive disposition despite what he had endured. I loved seeing their growth as a couple.
November 22, 2025
A bit of a different story from Lisa Oliver…
…as Lisa says in the afterword, this is a bit darker than most of her books. Wren had such a terrible early life, and then after her was sold, that it took quite a while for him to find himself. And since Wren didn’t know he was a shifter, or any Shifter 101, then Bear’s actions made no sense. The pacing made sense and made the HEA all the better. Plus the bad guy(s) got it in the end. Great story.
…as Lisa says in the afterword, this is a bit darker than most of her books. Wren had such a terrible early life, and then after her was sold, that it took quite a while for him to find himself. And since Wren didn’t know he was a shifter, or any Shifter 101, then Bear’s actions made no sense. The pacing made sense and made the HEA all the better. Plus the bad guy(s) got it in the end. Great story.
November 21, 2025
A great couple dealing with the reality of communication
I have loved the other Assassin Alley books, and this is a great addition to the series. I particularly like that the main couple deals with the very real problem of learning to communicate with each other, and it isn't wrapped up in one sappy conversation. The angst feels real, and it makes me love the characters even more.
I have loved the other Assassin Alley books, and this is a great addition to the series. I particularly like that the main couple deals with the very real problem of learning to communicate with each other, and it isn't wrapped up in one sappy conversation. The angst feels real, and it makes me love the characters even more.
November 21, 2025
Well done, Lisa. Devon is hell-bent on saving his online chat friend when it becomes clear that he is in danger. At this point, he has no idea that it's his mate he is trying to save. Wren has been through hell in his life, but is bravely trying to make a fresh start. Great addition to this series, can't wait for Flint's book. Highly recommended.
November 22, 2025
I loved it.
Wren and Devon! Oh my heart. Devon just wants to wrap Wren up in bubble wrap and keep him safe from the world. I loved it so much! No one said finding your mate would be an instant ticket to hot sex and happily ever after. Wonderful story and now I can’t wait until Flint gets his book.
Wren and Devon! Oh my heart. Devon just wants to wrap Wren up in bubble wrap and keep him safe from the world. I loved it so much! No one said finding your mate would be an instant ticket to hot sex and happily ever after. Wonderful story and now I can’t wait until Flint gets his book.
November 23, 2025
Awesome book!
Another amazing story from Lisa Oliver! I loved this book! Such wonderful characters in this series. I love how they are a found family. Totally recommend.
Another amazing story from Lisa Oliver! I loved this book! Such wonderful characters in this series. I love how they are a found family. Totally recommend.
November 21, 2025
Awesome!
As always Lisa gives us another wonderful story!
Two people from very different upbringing coming together to learn about life and love between mates!
As always Lisa gives us another wonderful story!
Two people from very different upbringing coming together to learn about life and love between mates!
November 23, 2025
3.5 stars. Another enjoyable fated mates romance within the series. Looking forward to the next one after that epilogue!
December 18, 2025
Well written, very relatable characters with intriguing personalities. . .
. . .all made for an enjoyable reading escape from anything serious for a couple of hours. Devon (Bear) & Wren managed to wrangle a successful mating after surviving a few hurdles while navigating Wren's transitioning from extreme circumstances. To me, Lisa Oliver made some subtle changes to her writing, keeping details within the realm of believability (well, as believable as one could view paranormal rituals, shifter diversity and inter-relationships, and Fate), and less extreme differences between our MCs. I really became immersed in Wren's backstory and coming out with his unique personality, as well as how he absolutely lucked out in scoring one of the nicest mates in the history of all the Lisa Oliver stories I've purchased and read.
Hence, I definitely recommend this one to readers. This author writes heartwarming stories spiced with romantic interludes between sometimes zany specie match-ups, but with feel-good vibes that'll bring out chuckles and smiles at the very least. Five stars...
. . .all made for an enjoyable reading escape from anything serious for a couple of hours. Devon (Bear) & Wren managed to wrangle a successful mating after surviving a few hurdles while navigating Wren's transitioning from extreme circumstances. To me, Lisa Oliver made some subtle changes to her writing, keeping details within the realm of believability (well, as believable as one could view paranormal rituals, shifter diversity and inter-relationships, and Fate), and less extreme differences between our MCs. I really became immersed in Wren's backstory and coming out with his unique personality, as well as how he absolutely lucked out in scoring one of the nicest mates in the history of all the Lisa Oliver stories I've purchased and read.
Hence, I definitely recommend this one to readers. This author writes heartwarming stories spiced with romantic interludes between sometimes zany specie match-ups, but with feel-good vibes that'll bring out chuckles and smiles at the very least. Five stars...
November 21, 2025
MATED BEARS.... UGH
ASSASSIN'S ALLEY Book 3. This is a GREAT Book. I couldn't put it down. These shifters are not run of the mill. Settle in and get comfortable. Wren is in deep trouble. He's being held and his time is running out. Devon is a Bear Shifter. Even as an Assassin he has a big heart. With one whiff of Wren, his captor is boots. This is a fast paced adventure and all the Assassins are present. LISA OLIVER takes great care of her men. She knows her characters and her audience. These Books are filled with surprises, talented Assassins and tons of love. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND THIS ASSASSIN'S ALLEY SERIES!!!!!!!!!!
ASSASSIN'S ALLEY Book 3. This is a GREAT Book. I couldn't put it down. These shifters are not run of the mill. Settle in and get comfortable. Wren is in deep trouble. He's being held and his time is running out. Devon is a Bear Shifter. Even as an Assassin he has a big heart. With one whiff of Wren, his captor is boots. This is a fast paced adventure and all the Assassins are present. LISA OLIVER takes great care of her men. She knows her characters and her audience. These Books are filled with surprises, talented Assassins and tons of love. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND THIS ASSASSIN'S ALLEY SERIES!!!!!!!!!!
January 12, 2026
A bear mates what?
Devon, our bear shifter assassin has been in a several months long online conversation with a young man, Wren, in a terrible situation. Wren was sold to a cruel snake shifter as a slave but is due to die soon. Bear gets the green light to rescue Wren and kill the owner. Devon discovers Wren is his mate but knows nothing about shifters and Devon recognizes his trauma does not push claiming. Wren has a faint unidentifiable shifter scent which none of the assassins can figure out. This great addition to the series is the story of Wren's background and how the child trafficking is stopped. Highly recommended.
Devon, our bear shifter assassin has been in a several months long online conversation with a young man, Wren, in a terrible situation. Wren was sold to a cruel snake shifter as a slave but is due to die soon. Bear gets the green light to rescue Wren and kill the owner. Devon discovers Wren is his mate but knows nothing about shifters and Devon recognizes his trauma does not push claiming. Wren has a faint unidentifiable shifter scent which none of the assassins can figure out. This great addition to the series is the story of Wren's background and how the child trafficking is stopped. Highly recommended.
December 8, 2025
This book is a 3/5 for me. I usually books by this author. This book is about Deven, a bear shifter, and Wren, a chameleon shifter. Bear is an assassin who comes in contact with Wren over online homework. The two talk and Bear guesses that Wren is being kept hostage. Wren guesses that his Cartier is getting ready to kill him. But Bear finds him first. The book is interesting but too long. There is a lot of unnecessary drama between the two men. It is almost as if the author is setting up another book.
November 25, 2025
Good
I enjoyed the latest in this series even though it had some serious angst. Chapter 2 was sad and Chapter 4 was heartbreaking. It's so hard waiting for a saviour, especially when one never arrives.
Chapter 14 was as funny as hell!
They make a really sweet couple and I was particularly pleased that Wren wanted and was there to get justice in the end.
I'm very much looked forward to Flint and Arrow's book.
I enjoyed the latest in this series even though it had some serious angst. Chapter 2 was sad and Chapter 4 was heartbreaking. It's so hard waiting for a saviour, especially when one never arrives.
Chapter 14 was as funny as hell!
They make a really sweet couple and I was particularly pleased that Wren wanted and was there to get justice in the end.
I'm very much looked forward to Flint and Arrow's book.
January 1, 2026
Meh
These books are becoming more about therapy and sex than an actual storyline. Lisa used to write amazing storylines that had depth to their plot. I am not sure what has happened. A lot of her shifter books are feeling like they are all the same.
This one had an interesting premise but the bad guy plot is more like an afterthought while the sex scenes and new mate stupidity takes center stage.
I hope you like it more than me!!
These books are becoming more about therapy and sex than an actual storyline. Lisa used to write amazing storylines that had depth to their plot. I am not sure what has happened. A lot of her shifter books are feeling like they are all the same.
This one had an interesting premise but the bad guy plot is more like an afterthought while the sex scenes and new mate stupidity takes center stage.
I hope you like it more than me!!
December 7, 2025
karma chameleon!!!
Wren is the perfect fit for the alley! And Devon had a lot to learn, not to mention the rest of the guys could learn from his mistakes. But, the heart of the story is family and our past doesn’t define us. Trust and love and grace to ourselves makes us stronger than we think we can be
Wren is the perfect fit for the alley! And Devon had a lot to learn, not to mention the rest of the guys could learn from his mistakes. But, the heart of the story is family and our past doesn’t define us. Trust and love and grace to ourselves makes us stronger than we think we can be
December 11, 2025
God how I love the stories you write!
The only thing I can say is to be sorry that I can't follow you around and be the person you bounce ideas with! I'm serious about how big of a fan, I will buy any story this author has written and have read most of the books that have been written in written with another person!
The only thing I can say is to be sorry that I can't follow you around and be the person you bounce ideas with! I'm serious about how big of a fan, I will buy any story this author has written and have read most of the books that have been written in written with another person!
December 20, 2025
Brilliant
Loved this book Wren was so sweet after everything in his life was so horrible, I loved when he would get tough with bear (Devon who would mess up every so often trying to protect him their love was beautiful, I highly recommend this book Lisa is an awesome author.
Loved this book Wren was so sweet after everything in his life was so horrible, I loved when he would get tough with bear (Devon who would mess up every so often trying to protect him their love was beautiful, I highly recommend this book Lisa is an awesome author.
November 27, 2025
Awesome
Really good book. I couldn't put it down. Devon
and When's story so worth reading. A must read. You'll laugh and cry
Really good book. I couldn't put it down. Devon
and When's story so worth reading. A must read. You'll laugh and cry
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews