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Ripple Creek Werewolf #1
Beneath a Rising Moon
On the werewolf reservation of Ripple Creek, a killer is on the loose. Three women are dead and Neva Grant's twin sister is fighting for her life. Neva vows to hunt down the killer, if Savannah finds the strength to live. To begin the hunt, she must seduce a member of the suspected Sinclair clan. To her dismay, the only Sinclair not under suspicion is a wolf with a hard-drinking, hard-loving reputation.
Duncan Sinclair has been called back home to find a killer. Soon, he's approached by a wolf who has more than seduction on her mind, and he finds himself ensnared in a web of desire and deceit.
As the murders continue, Duncan and Neva find themselves having to trust each other in order to survive. Can they trust the emotions flaring between them? Or will the lies of the present, the deeds of the past and a killer's intentions tear them apart?
335 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 5, 2003
96 people are currently reading
2963 people want to read
About the author
Keri Arthur
100 books6,002 followersKeri Arthur, author of the New York Times bestselling Riley Jenson, Guardian series, has now written more than 25 books. She's received several nominations in the Best Contemporary Paranormal category of the Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Awards, and recently won RT's Career Achievement Award for urban fantasy. She lives in Melbourne with her daughter and two crazy dogs
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 218 reviews
December 13, 2020
This was one of the first books I read in this genre (I don't remember the exact date of reading) and even though I am aware of any and all flaws it might have, it kept its magic. At least, as far as I'm concerned. I am biased, though, so take it with a grain of salt.
***
Most readers have one or a couple of books one of their favourite authors has written that they know are weaker than the author's later books or series and they still love them.
Ripple Creek Werewolf has only two books and I love them both. You can see the beginnings of Riley Jenson Guardian, the customs and rules of shifter society, their sexual freedom. There aren't any other races in these two books, only wolves. Those will come in other series set in this world.
A lot of people are tired of the soulmate theme, but Keri Arthur used that same theme and made it beautiful. Besides, I wouldn't mind the certainty. Both men and women in Keri Arthur's world do wait for the one, but they also have partnered before that happens. All her characters are unapologetically sexual.
Neva Grant's sister is in a coma. Savannah is a Ripple Creek ranger and she was hunting for a killer when she was attacked. All the evidence points to someone from the Sinclair clan, who often organize wolf dances in their mansion (where they choose partners for that full moon). Neva decides to get to the bottom of it all by seducing the only Sinclair who is not under suspicion.
***
Most readers have one or a couple of books one of their favourite authors has written that they know are weaker than the author's later books or series and they still love them.
Ripple Creek Werewolf has only two books and I love them both. You can see the beginnings of Riley Jenson Guardian, the customs and rules of shifter society, their sexual freedom. There aren't any other races in these two books, only wolves. Those will come in other series set in this world.
A lot of people are tired of the soulmate theme, but Keri Arthur used that same theme and made it beautiful. Besides, I wouldn't mind the certainty. Both men and women in Keri Arthur's world do wait for the one, but they also have partnered before that happens. All her characters are unapologetically sexual.
Neva Grant's sister is in a coma. Savannah is a Ripple Creek ranger and she was hunting for a killer when she was attacked. All the evidence points to someone from the Sinclair clan, who often organize wolf dances in their mansion (where they choose partners for that full moon). Neva decides to get to the bottom of it all by seducing the only Sinclair who is not under suspicion.
October 24, 2017
This is the first book I've read by Keri Arthur and I don't think I'll be picking up another one.
I felt like the first half of the book just had really strong Rapey undertones and that the author wasn't necessarily trying to romanticize sexual assault but managed it all the same. With not only the simple fact that once a female agreed to dance, the male could then force her to have sex with him even if she changed her mind, but the fact that the "Hero" used this ability on several occasions to force Neva into acts she had vocally stated she didn't want to do. And then the author would constantly describe Neva as being turned on by the act even as she was expressing how much she hated what he was doing. Sometimes even in the same sentence.
The whole first part of the book made me very uncomfortable because with the exception of the first time Neva and Duncan have sex, it seems like every sexual encounter they had was forced upon her and she truly had no choice in the matter.
And then there's the matter of their official mating. I don't understand how someone could see it as romantic at all? He basically tells her that they will role play an official mating but because it's not the night of a full moon they will be fine and won't actually be bound to each other. But then once they start he realizes that it's really working and then continues anyway, even when Neva asks to stop, he doesn't let her. Eventually she figures out that they are actually bonded but is cool with it because she loves him? He was a complete jerk to her throughout almost the entire book, constantly taking her choices away and not allowing her to do anything for herself, and yet it's okay because they are soul mates and she loves him.
I'm sorry, I just can't get behind this book. It reeks of romanticizing abuse and sexual assault and just in general made me uncomfortable reading it. I can't say I will be recommending anyone this book.
I felt like the first half of the book just had really strong Rapey undertones and that the author wasn't necessarily trying to romanticize sexual assault but managed it all the same. With not only the simple fact that once a female agreed to dance, the male could then force her to have sex with him even if she changed her mind, but the fact that the "Hero" used this ability on several occasions to force Neva into acts she had vocally stated she didn't want to do. And then the author would constantly describe Neva as being turned on by the act even as she was expressing how much she hated what he was doing. Sometimes even in the same sentence.
The whole first part of the book made me very uncomfortable because with the exception of the first time Neva and Duncan have sex, it seems like every sexual encounter they had was forced upon her and she truly had no choice in the matter.
And then there's the matter of their official mating. I don't understand how someone could see it as romantic at all? He basically tells her that they will role play an official mating but because it's not the night of a full moon they will be fine and won't actually be bound to each other. But then once they start he realizes that it's really working and then continues anyway, even when Neva asks to stop, he doesn't let her. Eventually she figures out that they are actually bonded but is cool with it because she loves him? He was a complete jerk to her throughout almost the entire book, constantly taking her choices away and not allowing her to do anything for herself, and yet it's okay because they are soul mates and she loves him.
I'm sorry, I just can't get behind this book. It reeks of romanticizing abuse and sexual assault and just in general made me uncomfortable reading it. I can't say I will be recommending anyone this book.
January 17, 2022
3.25⭐️
I know this is PNR where the focus is on R, but Arthur really needs to give her MCs some common sense and deduction skills. I'm not asking for a Sherlock Holmes, but the identity of the killer was way too obvious for the H and h to miss for so long. Especially when the H is supposed to be an investigator.
It's also so bizarre that it didn't even cross the h's mind that someone drugged her, when she started losing consciousness right after she had a drink handed to her.
H o w ?
I'll say I also had to knock off some points for the final fight when the H couldn't overpower the villain (considering the traits of the villain that I shall not spoil) more easily. I understand we needed a full-on fight so that the action scene wouldn't be anticlimactic, but maybe add another opponent, or keep the H a bit incapacitated somehow, so he'd have an excuse to perform as mediocre as he did in the fight. Totally knocked off some alpha points for that one.
Other than that, I enjoyed both characters (But stay away if you're a hardcore feminist because I know you'd fume at the Moon Dance rules and magic which I actually loved lol). I found Neva and Duncan adorable together and liked their believable progression (unlike other books where it feels forced) from enemies to lovers. There was a bit too much smut for me but it was fine, and I know a lot of readers who would love this. This was a 3☆ but I bumped my rating up a little for Neva and Duncan. 😋
I know this is PNR where the focus is on R, but Arthur really needs to give her MCs some common sense and deduction skills. I'm not asking for a Sherlock Holmes, but the identity of the killer was way too obvious for the H and h to miss for so long. Especially when the H is supposed to be an investigator.
It's also so bizarre that it didn't even cross the h's mind that someone drugged her, when she started losing consciousness right after she had a drink handed to her.
H o w ?
I'll say I also had to knock off some points for the final fight when the H couldn't overpower the villain (considering the traits of the villain that I shall not spoil) more easily. I understand we needed a full-on fight so that the action scene wouldn't be anticlimactic, but maybe add another opponent, or keep the H a bit incapacitated somehow, so he'd have an excuse to perform as mediocre as he did in the fight. Totally knocked off some alpha points for that one.
Other than that, I enjoyed both characters (But stay away if you're a hardcore feminist because I know you'd fume at the Moon Dance rules and magic which I actually loved lol). I found Neva and Duncan adorable together and liked their believable progression (unlike other books where it feels forced) from enemies to lovers. There was a bit too much smut for me but it was fine, and I know a lot of readers who would love this. This was a 3☆ but I bumped my rating up a little for Neva and Duncan. 😋
October 5, 2012
Well, I tried Keri Arthur, and now I know she’s not for me. I’m sorry, but the writing was just so bad! It felt like this was churned out in a week’s time. And apparently no one edited it. There were phrases repeated word for word in multiple places (which always really annoys me); there were strange inconsistencies, like people suddenly knowing things they had specifically been kept in the dark about in previous scenes. And then the worst example: the main couple sees a Suspicious Person throw something in the river and determine to fish it out later. But they are never shown doing this and instead break into Suspicious Person’s house and find a Nefarious Object clearly described as sitting on a bookshelf. Then in the very next chapter they confront Suspicious Person with the Nefarious Object and triumphantly declare that they fished it out of the river!
The characters are physically perfect (of course), shallow and boring. The romantic couple doesn’t have a connection on any level except the physical which means the sexual tension is actually rather lacking. The hero is a jerk. The villains are obvious. The romantic lines are cheeeeesy. No one’s motivations make much sense and everyone vacillates between emotional extremes nonsensically.
Here are some lines that made me giggle, after our hero is shot with a dart gun: “He glanced down. A dart was buried hilt deep in his forearm […] He lunged for her, but it felt like he was moving through glue, and his feet were extraordinarily heavy […] The dart must have been drugged.” The dart must have been drugged? This is the genius deduction you have come to? I’m really curious as to why else someone would shoot you with a dart gun if not to sedate you. Maybe hoping you die slowly of tetanus from the tiny puncture wound?
Basically, this was on the level of a Harlequin romance with a few werewolves thrown in.
The characters are physically perfect (of course), shallow and boring. The romantic couple doesn’t have a connection on any level except the physical which means the sexual tension is actually rather lacking. The hero is a jerk. The villains are obvious. The romantic lines are cheeeeesy. No one’s motivations make much sense and everyone vacillates between emotional extremes nonsensically.
Here are some lines that made me giggle, after our hero is shot with a dart gun: “He glanced down. A dart was buried hilt deep in his forearm […] He lunged for her, but it felt like he was moving through glue, and his feet were extraordinarily heavy […] The dart must have been drugged.” The dart must have been drugged? This is the genius deduction you have come to? I’m really curious as to why else someone would shoot you with a dart gun if not to sedate you. Maybe hoping you die slowly of tetanus from the tiny puncture wound?
Basically, this was on the level of a Harlequin romance with a few werewolves thrown in.
December 18, 2011
This book was an easy read that held my interest to the end, but there were just too many moments that made me uncomfortable for me to award a third star. The old romance staple of "sure she says no, but she really ENJOYS being forced so it's all OK" was rife in the first half of the book, with the central couple being downright unpleasant to one another as they lie incessantly for reasons that aren't wholly valid. The second half was an improvement, but ultimately there seemed to be little connection between Neva and Duncan beyond sex and the magic of mating, which renders such trivialities as compatible personalities, interesting dialogue and an emotional connection as redundant. Not for me.
June 6, 2015
I had a lot of fun with this one and I have to say I definitely enjoyed it more than the second book (which I didn't dislike, but was just sort of "meh" for me).
After her sister, Savannah, is attacked by a werewolf (in case the word "Moon" in the title didn't alert you, this is a werewolf book), Neva decides to go undercover in the mansion owned by the family of prime suspects so that she can investigate. She makes a "moon promise" to one of the sons of the family, the only one not under suspicion. I guess a "moon promise" is basically something mystical that says, "Hey, we're going to bone like rabbits until the last night of the full moon." Like the second book, I'm still not sure what the point of making a moon promise is because they apparently don't mandate exclusivity or any real kind of benefit other than having a definite partner to work off a werewolf's moon-inspired hormones and, well, it sounds like they could find that pretty much anywhere. Anyway, Duncan figures out pretty much right away that Neva is some sort of spy, although he doesn't know who sent her or why, so he begins a campaign of hot-and-cold running emotions to get her to go running back to whoever sent her. He's pretty cruel to her, screwing up her relationships with her uber-conservative family, her job, and ruining her reputation around town (I really don't understand how that works either since it sounds like it's pretty normal for all of the wolves to screw around when the full moon hits and implying things about a person's sexual history seems pretty hypocritical).
Meanwhile, there's a serial killer going around, murdering the sexual partners of the Sinclairs at their monthly moon-centered orgies. It's pretty clear early on who the killer is, but not what the motives are. Honestly, even after finishing the book there were a few things I'm not clear on.
I liked Duncan a lot more than I liked Cade -- at least with Duncan's asshattery, I could understand his motives -- and I think that had a lot to do with why I liked this book more. I will say I don't think the author had Savannah's story fully figured out when she wrote this one because some of the details alluded to in this did not match the ones in the second book. This was a library read, and while I'm not sure I would buy it, I could definitely see myself checking it out again and re-reading it someday -- not a keeper, but a fun book.
After her sister, Savannah, is attacked by a werewolf (in case the word "Moon" in the title didn't alert you, this is a werewolf book), Neva decides to go undercover in the mansion owned by the family of prime suspects so that she can investigate. She makes a "moon promise" to one of the sons of the family, the only one not under suspicion. I guess a "moon promise" is basically something mystical that says, "Hey, we're going to bone like rabbits until the last night of the full moon." Like the second book, I'm still not sure what the point of making a moon promise is because they apparently don't mandate exclusivity or any real kind of benefit other than having a definite partner to work off a werewolf's moon-inspired hormones and, well, it sounds like they could find that pretty much anywhere. Anyway, Duncan figures out pretty much right away that Neva is some sort of spy, although he doesn't know who sent her or why, so he begins a campaign of hot-and-cold running emotions to get her to go running back to whoever sent her. He's pretty cruel to her, screwing up her relationships with her uber-conservative family, her job, and ruining her reputation around town (I really don't understand how that works either since it sounds like it's pretty normal for all of the wolves to screw around when the full moon hits and implying things about a person's sexual history seems pretty hypocritical).
Meanwhile, there's a serial killer going around, murdering the sexual partners of the Sinclairs at their monthly moon-centered orgies. It's pretty clear early on who the killer is, but not what the motives are. Honestly, even after finishing the book there were a few things I'm not clear on.
I liked Duncan a lot more than I liked Cade -- at least with Duncan's asshattery, I could understand his motives -- and I think that had a lot to do with why I liked this book more. I will say I don't think the author had Savannah's story fully figured out when she wrote this one because some of the details alluded to in this did not match the ones in the second book. This was a library read, and while I'm not sure I would buy it, I could definitely see myself checking it out again and re-reading it someday -- not a keeper, but a fun book.
September 22, 2012
Neva is desperate to help her twin sister out. So desperate, she braves the "lion's den". Or should we say, the "werewolf's" den. Neva is one of the daughters of the leader for the prude old school werewolves. The Golden clan doesn't believe in the "dance". The dance is a filthy meaningless hook up for sex. The Sinclair clan practices this in excesses. Duncan is one of the Sinclair Alpha's son.
Neva the good girl hooks up with Duncan because she wants to use him to help find out who tried to kill her sister. Duncan the prodigal son returns home to help figure out why female werewolves are being killed and why all evidence points to the Sinclairs. Their fathers are not on good terms. It's almost like a Romeo and Juliet star-crossed lover story. Except in this story, the only one holding the grudge and caring is the Montague family - Neva's father. The Sinclairs playing the Capulet role could care less about Neva's father or his disapproval.
This story is very enjoyable in an angst type of manner. Duncan's reading on Neva is wrong which causes him to do things he regrets. Still, his alpha male dominance plus his sexually mastery of Neva is hot. The undertones of a D/s relationship make this story enticing. His ability to command Neva to do what he says because of a mistake she made in a promise is arousing. He has all the power in his hands. Will he abuse it or will he use it for both their pleasure? It's a hard decision.
The actual mystery in this story is neither surprising or complicated. The reader figures it out early on. The focus isn't on who is doing the killing. The real meat of the story is why is there killing. The why is messed up and understandable. It seems the decisions of the father end up being consequences the child must suffer. In this, both Duncan and Neva are dealt a raw hand. Fortunately, unlike Romeo and Juliet, this ends in a happily ever after. Or at least, it is a bittersweet ending which encourages the reader to read the second book. This paranormal romance is recommended for kinky readers who love the reformed alpha male.
*Review Copy from http://www.netgalley.com/*
Neva the good girl hooks up with Duncan because she wants to use him to help find out who tried to kill her sister. Duncan the prodigal son returns home to help figure out why female werewolves are being killed and why all evidence points to the Sinclairs. Their fathers are not on good terms. It's almost like a Romeo and Juliet star-crossed lover story. Except in this story, the only one holding the grudge and caring is the Montague family - Neva's father. The Sinclairs playing the Capulet role could care less about Neva's father or his disapproval.
This story is very enjoyable in an angst type of manner. Duncan's reading on Neva is wrong which causes him to do things he regrets. Still, his alpha male dominance plus his sexually mastery of Neva is hot. The undertones of a D/s relationship make this story enticing. His ability to command Neva to do what he says because of a mistake she made in a promise is arousing. He has all the power in his hands. Will he abuse it or will he use it for both their pleasure? It's a hard decision.
The actual mystery in this story is neither surprising or complicated. The reader figures it out early on. The focus isn't on who is doing the killing. The real meat of the story is why is there killing. The why is messed up and understandable. It seems the decisions of the father end up being consequences the child must suffer. In this, both Duncan and Neva are dealt a raw hand. Fortunately, unlike Romeo and Juliet, this ends in a happily ever after. Or at least, it is a bittersweet ending which encourages the reader to read the second book. This paranormal romance is recommended for kinky readers who love the reformed alpha male.
*Review Copy from http://www.netgalley.com/*
September 28, 2024
2 attempts to read = 2 DNFs
(May 2021 & August 2022)
The blurb sounded good, but it failed to deliver. Thanks in part to the mediocre writing. It's a harlequin-esque wolf shifter romance. Written in a melodramatic style. I found myself skimming early on, not caring about the MCs or the story.
The heat in his loins became an ache that almost consumed him. He had to have her. Now.
She entered the pavilion and stopped in front of him. The musky scent of her desire grew stronger, fueling the already raging need in him. But he wasn't the only one aching with the needs of the night and the moon.
"Dance with me. Let your body join with mine and rejoice in the power of the divine light."
He took a nipple into his mouth, sucking hard through the gossamer material. Her shuddering reached a crescendo, and her cry of pleasure sang through the night. A wave of primitive power surged through him, yet he knew he could take her higher, deeper, than what she'd yet tasted.
His movements became hard, fast. Hot flesh slapped against hot flesh.
The red tide rose, becoming a wall of pleasure he could not deny. His movements quickened. Deepened. Her gasps reached a second crescendo, and her cries echoed across the silence as her body bucked against his. He came―a hot torrential release whose force tore a shout from his lips and sent his body rigid.
🙄 The above happened at the 5% mark. Sex between strangers isn't a turn-on. Even if they knew each other, the way it's written is too ridiculous for titillation.
It's a cross between contemporary and PNR. There are few action scenes. There's a lot of inner monologue. The mystery was easy to figure out (even with skimming).
Overall, it's corny, dull and predictable.
(May 2021 & August 2022)
The blurb sounded good, but it failed to deliver. Thanks in part to the mediocre writing. It's a harlequin-esque wolf shifter romance. Written in a melodramatic style. I found myself skimming early on, not caring about the MCs or the story.
The heat in his loins became an ache that almost consumed him. He had to have her. Now.
She entered the pavilion and stopped in front of him. The musky scent of her desire grew stronger, fueling the already raging need in him. But he wasn't the only one aching with the needs of the night and the moon.
"Dance with me. Let your body join with mine and rejoice in the power of the divine light."
He took a nipple into his mouth, sucking hard through the gossamer material. Her shuddering reached a crescendo, and her cry of pleasure sang through the night. A wave of primitive power surged through him, yet he knew he could take her higher, deeper, than what she'd yet tasted.
His movements became hard, fast. Hot flesh slapped against hot flesh.
The red tide rose, becoming a wall of pleasure he could not deny. His movements quickened. Deepened. Her gasps reached a second crescendo, and her cries echoed across the silence as her body bucked against his. He came―a hot torrential release whose force tore a shout from his lips and sent his body rigid.
🙄 The above happened at the 5% mark. Sex between strangers isn't a turn-on. Even if they knew each other, the way it's written is too ridiculous for titillation.
It's a cross between contemporary and PNR. There are few action scenes. There's a lot of inner monologue. The mystery was easy to figure out (even with skimming).
Overall, it's corny, dull and predictable.
August 6, 2019
Surprisingly, this was a good read!! Looking at the cover, I thought it was gonna be cheesy. But nope, I was proven wrong and I'm so glad for that!
This was exactly the kind of break I needed...a paranormal read with family drama, catty-females, suspense, steamy scenes and my fave, the Happily-Ever-After ending.
The story starts off with our heroine Neva, (going undercover & doing whatever means necessary) searching for the person who attacked her sister and put her in the hospital. Not only was her sister attacked but other females have been killed and everything is pointing towards Sinclair men.
Duncan Sinclair has come back home, after being gone for ten years, to clear his family name. He also happens to be the man Neva has attached herself to in order to get close enough to do her own snooping around. Duncan catches her and immediately comes to his own conclusion as to why she's there and becomes this arrogant SOB and tries to break Neva. And as much as Neva wants to give in and get out of this situation with Duncan, she finds that she can't and low-key doesn't want to. In the time these two are thrown together, alot of things happen and they starting developing feeling for each other, which they both try desperately to deny. Now the question is, who will give in first and will it be in time before the one of them become the next victim.
Like I said, this was the perfect break I needed and this book helped be get back into my reading mojo. And as much as I'd like to continue on to book 2, I've got others that need to be picked up. But I will most def be reading Savannah (Neva's sister) book. I give this book 4 GREAT STARS outta 5!!
This was exactly the kind of break I needed...a paranormal read with family drama, catty-females, suspense, steamy scenes and my fave, the Happily-Ever-After ending.
The story starts off with our heroine Neva, (going undercover & doing whatever means necessary) searching for the person who attacked her sister and put her in the hospital. Not only was her sister attacked but other females have been killed and everything is pointing towards Sinclair men.
Duncan Sinclair has come back home, after being gone for ten years, to clear his family name. He also happens to be the man Neva has attached herself to in order to get close enough to do her own snooping around. Duncan catches her and immediately comes to his own conclusion as to why she's there and becomes this arrogant SOB and tries to break Neva. And as much as Neva wants to give in and get out of this situation with Duncan, she finds that she can't and low-key doesn't want to. In the time these two are thrown together, alot of things happen and they starting developing feeling for each other, which they both try desperately to deny. Now the question is, who will give in first and will it be in time before the one of them become the next victim.
Like I said, this was the perfect break I needed and this book helped be get back into my reading mojo. And as much as I'd like to continue on to book 2, I've got others that need to be picked up. But I will most def be reading Savannah (Neva's sister) book. I give this book 4 GREAT STARS outta 5!!
May 24, 2017
I'm very much in the minority on this one. I couldn't stand the hero (and I use that term very very loosely). What an asshat! This book consists of more sex than anything. Oh there is a good murder mystery beneath the sexathon but unfortunately with stopping to have sex every five minutes the thread is completely lost. And if nothing else, Ms. Arthur seriously needed to let someone edit this disaster - too much repetition of phrases and/or words. Very annoying.
I've always liked the idea of mates and even of moon fever but Ms. Arthur just took it too far for my tastes. It was more mind control than anything and that's akin to rape in my book which is not acceptable on any level.
Do yourself a favor and read Ms. Arthur's Riley Jenson series instead of this bucket of crap.
I've always liked the idea of mates and even of moon fever but Ms. Arthur just took it too far for my tastes. It was more mind control than anything and that's akin to rape in my book which is not acceptable on any level.
Do yourself a favor and read Ms. Arthur's Riley Jenson series instead of this bucket of crap.
May 5, 2020
I couldn't finish this book. Going into it, I thought the premise sounded interesting. Neva wants to seduce Duncan to get information on the wolf that almost killed her sister, Savannah. Okay, so she's doing this of her own free will.
The horrible thing about this book is that once she mates and gives herself to Duncan, he's allowed to control her and she has to mate with him, and do what he says. There's even magic that makes it impossible for her to refuse. This disgusts me. That's rape, period.
I can't recommend this book. Sexual assault is not a good premise for a "romance" novel.
The horrible thing about this book is that once she mates and gives herself to Duncan, he's allowed to control her and she has to mate with him, and do what he says. There's even magic that makes it impossible for her to refuse. This disgusts me. That's rape, period.
I can't recommend this book. Sexual assault is not a good premise for a "romance" novel.
June 29, 2014
On the whole I was disappointed with this. Guess I had preconceived expectations which included a more sophisticated approach and story than this from Keri Arthur.
The story was basic, the plot predictable and the sex too much of the same.
Doubt I'll bother with the second book.
The story was basic, the plot predictable and the sex too much of the same.
Doubt I'll bother with the second book.
October 1, 2020
2.5 stars
Meh, the romance aspect felt more paranormal than natural. And the mysterious murder was pretty easy to figure out.
Meh, the romance aspect felt more paranormal than natural. And the mysterious murder was pretty easy to figure out.
September 26, 2012
If you’ve read Full Moon Rising or any of the Riley Jenson series, you’ll see some similarities between the werewolves in that series and this book: the wolves are out to the humans, the relationship between humans and werewolves is bumpy and the wolves are heavily regulated, the wolves have soul mates and moon dances. But, as Arthur makes sure to point out in a note at the beginning of the book, this book is set in a different world than the Riley books. It was in fact written and released, by Piatkus Books, before Full Moon Rising. This is a re-release.
The werewolves in this world live on reservations, though humans also live and work with them. They have their own police force, the rangers, who handle most of the law enforcing on the reservation. One of their own, Savannah Grant, was attacked and is in the local hospital in a coma. Her twin Neva, who shares a psychic connection to her and actually saw part of the attack through Savannah’s eyes, decides to take matters in her own hands and investigate.
She goes undercover to look for the killer. A local wolf family, the Sinclairs, is the main suspect. The family has a mansion outside of town where they hold monthly “dances” i.e. get-togethers where wolves can hook up and give free rein to their sexual surges which surge at the full moon. Neva is from a family that believes wolves should wait to indulge until they find their soul mate. Neva has discretely had a few lovers here and there but is fairly inexperienced. She is anxious about attending the dance because she knows she’ll have to dance, i.e. have sex, with a strange wolf to accomplish her goal. Not just any wolf, but Duncan Sinclair, a son of the Sinclair pack leader, who had been away for ten years and returned home after the first couple murders. Neva thinks he may be the safest to hook up with as the rangers don’t consider him a suspect. He has a bad boy reputation due to his actions before he took off ten years but he seems to have calmed down.
Sinclair quickly realizes that Neva is there under false pretenses and decides she’s working for someone as a spy. He proceeds to treat her like dog doo that’s stuck to the bottom of his shoe and she lets him because she still wants to find the wolf that attacked her sister and is killing female werewolves. I admit, that bugged the crap out of me. Yes, Sinclair could be a nice guy but was he flat out cruel to her, coolly and calculatingly destroyed both her reputation and her relationship with her parents, and was a sexual tease. He ran hot and cold and had no problem using magic to make her do his bidding. The constant reference to the “dance” instead of calling it sex annoyed me. I understand that “dance” was the wolves’ term but it was used all of the time, which I found unrealistic. Seriously, no one ever refers to it as sex? It just felt forced and unnatural. Towards the end of the book Sinclair also makes a decision on Neva’s behalf that radically affects both of their lives but doesn’t tell her. “It wasn’t playing fair, it wasn’t giving her the choice, but in all honestly, he didn’t care.” And that is typical of his behavior all throughout the book. In my opinion, it didn’t make up for his behavior. He was very controlling and several times I wanted her to call a domestic abuse hotline. When their relationship turned “real” and not just an act to find her sister’s attacker, her tolerance of his behavior really bothered me. I’m still having trouble wrapping my head around it.
Another thing that bugged me was the double standard that Arthur employed. Sinclair liked Neva for her freshness, her lack of experience with the dance and her innocence; he often and callously referred to regulars at the dance as “well-used”. So did other males in his family. Hello, Mr. Hypocrite and Double Standard Bearer.
So, did I like ANYTHING? I did actually. I was sucked into the story immediately and stayed up late to finish it. I wanted to see what happened next and how things worked out. I liked Neva and I liked that Neva grew over the course of the book, a neat trick as the majority of the book occurs over a four day period. Arthur also did a good job showing us the differences between Neva and Savannah; they’re identical twins physically but different personality-wise. Arthur resisted the cliché of having a good twin/bad twin nor are they complete opposites, they both feel real. Sinclair, even with all his doucheness, also feels real and occasionally was quite likable. He and Neva both feel strong loyalty to their families and would do whatever was necessary to protect them. Savannah and Neva’s sibling relationship was strong but not perfect and I enjoyed their interactions. Their father was somewhat cardboard and could have been developed more but I did believe in his and his wife’s concern for Neva’s well-being. The conflict between their vision of Neva’s happiness and her vision was painfully real and something many readers will be able to empathize with.
I did figure out who the killer was but I had the motivation wrong. Arthur sprinkled real clues and red herrings throughout but it’s not too hard to identify the killer. I would have liked a bit more depth to the killer’s characterization but it worked. Neva and Sinclair eventually work together to track the killer and they were actually pretty decent at it for being amateurs. The mistakes they made were believable and not just there to move the story along. The trick some of the wolves have with baking soda (read the story to find out, it’s a minor spoiler) is a good detail and a nice touch.
The world building is well done, detailed but not overly so. I’d call the book a paranormal romantic suspense, though the emphasis was more on the sex and the relationship. I hope that Arthur will continue the series. There’s at least one more, Savannah’s story, as there was a blurb for it at the end of my book and I’ll be picking it up.
This review was first published at Romance at Random: http://www.romanceatrandom.com/book-r...
I received an eARC from the publisher.
The werewolves in this world live on reservations, though humans also live and work with them. They have their own police force, the rangers, who handle most of the law enforcing on the reservation. One of their own, Savannah Grant, was attacked and is in the local hospital in a coma. Her twin Neva, who shares a psychic connection to her and actually saw part of the attack through Savannah’s eyes, decides to take matters in her own hands and investigate.
She goes undercover to look for the killer. A local wolf family, the Sinclairs, is the main suspect. The family has a mansion outside of town where they hold monthly “dances” i.e. get-togethers where wolves can hook up and give free rein to their sexual surges which surge at the full moon. Neva is from a family that believes wolves should wait to indulge until they find their soul mate. Neva has discretely had a few lovers here and there but is fairly inexperienced. She is anxious about attending the dance because she knows she’ll have to dance, i.e. have sex, with a strange wolf to accomplish her goal. Not just any wolf, but Duncan Sinclair, a son of the Sinclair pack leader, who had been away for ten years and returned home after the first couple murders. Neva thinks he may be the safest to hook up with as the rangers don’t consider him a suspect. He has a bad boy reputation due to his actions before he took off ten years but he seems to have calmed down.
Sinclair quickly realizes that Neva is there under false pretenses and decides she’s working for someone as a spy. He proceeds to treat her like dog doo that’s stuck to the bottom of his shoe and she lets him because she still wants to find the wolf that attacked her sister and is killing female werewolves. I admit, that bugged the crap out of me. Yes, Sinclair could be a nice guy but was he flat out cruel to her, coolly and calculatingly destroyed both her reputation and her relationship with her parents, and was a sexual tease. He ran hot and cold and had no problem using magic to make her do his bidding. The constant reference to the “dance” instead of calling it sex annoyed me. I understand that “dance” was the wolves’ term but it was used all of the time, which I found unrealistic. Seriously, no one ever refers to it as sex? It just felt forced and unnatural. Towards the end of the book Sinclair also makes a decision on Neva’s behalf that radically affects both of their lives but doesn’t tell her. “It wasn’t playing fair, it wasn’t giving her the choice, but in all honestly, he didn’t care.” And that is typical of his behavior all throughout the book. In my opinion, it didn’t make up for his behavior. He was very controlling and several times I wanted her to call a domestic abuse hotline. When their relationship turned “real” and not just an act to find her sister’s attacker, her tolerance of his behavior really bothered me. I’m still having trouble wrapping my head around it.
Another thing that bugged me was the double standard that Arthur employed. Sinclair liked Neva for her freshness, her lack of experience with the dance and her innocence; he often and callously referred to regulars at the dance as “well-used”. So did other males in his family. Hello, Mr. Hypocrite and Double Standard Bearer.
So, did I like ANYTHING? I did actually. I was sucked into the story immediately and stayed up late to finish it. I wanted to see what happened next and how things worked out. I liked Neva and I liked that Neva grew over the course of the book, a neat trick as the majority of the book occurs over a four day period. Arthur also did a good job showing us the differences between Neva and Savannah; they’re identical twins physically but different personality-wise. Arthur resisted the cliché of having a good twin/bad twin nor are they complete opposites, they both feel real. Sinclair, even with all his doucheness, also feels real and occasionally was quite likable. He and Neva both feel strong loyalty to their families and would do whatever was necessary to protect them. Savannah and Neva’s sibling relationship was strong but not perfect and I enjoyed their interactions. Their father was somewhat cardboard and could have been developed more but I did believe in his and his wife’s concern for Neva’s well-being. The conflict between their vision of Neva’s happiness and her vision was painfully real and something many readers will be able to empathize with.
I did figure out who the killer was but I had the motivation wrong. Arthur sprinkled real clues and red herrings throughout but it’s not too hard to identify the killer. I would have liked a bit more depth to the killer’s characterization but it worked. Neva and Sinclair eventually work together to track the killer and they were actually pretty decent at it for being amateurs. The mistakes they made were believable and not just there to move the story along. The trick some of the wolves have with baking soda (read the story to find out, it’s a minor spoiler) is a good detail and a nice touch.
The world building is well done, detailed but not overly so. I’d call the book a paranormal romantic suspense, though the emphasis was more on the sex and the relationship. I hope that Arthur will continue the series. There’s at least one more, Savannah’s story, as there was a blurb for it at the end of my book and I’ll be picking it up.
This review was first published at Romance at Random: http://www.romanceatrandom.com/book-r...
I received an eARC from the publisher.
August 19, 2012
Mon avis en Français
My English review
And if I tell you that I was sure that Keri Arthur had only written two series? I do know the Riley Jensen one as I’ve almost finished it and I’m also curious to start the other series in this same universe. When I discovered that the author had written another series about werewolves, and when I saw this gorgeous cover, I knew I needed to read it.
Neva's twin sister, Savannah was attaqued and since this event she is at the hospital, struggling to survive. Neva is now determined to find the killer that her sister was hunting to make him pay for what he did to her family. Even if for that she must deny everything she believes in and must enter a whole new world. However, she has to keep it secret from her parents for fear of their reaction as they’re completely opposed to the kind of practice she intends to use. In fact, having read the records of her sister, she realizes they suspect the Sinclair pack, a very liberated pack on the margins of society. And the only way to find the culprit is to infiltrate this pack that her family hates and what a better way than to seduce Duncan a son of the alpha? I must say that our heroine had everything planned from the start, how to be chosen, how to dress, how to titillate his curiosity, but she had not expected that he would realize it was a trap and that he could trap herself by tying her to him for five days to see what happens. In addition to this, the murders continue and when our heroine tries to investigate about these events, and that Duncan thinks she's a spy hired by the killer, something is created between them little by little. Our Alpha Sinclair will do everything to break her and learn her motivations while our innocent heroine will do anything to uncover the truth, even if her life falls apart a little more each time that she is close to Duncan.
I loved this novel and these two characters are a delight to follow. Duncan has a totally twisted mind as soon as he decides that he wants the truth and Neva is just a naive girl looking for revenge. But she doesn't know what she is doing, nor the rules of this world. Everyone has its own idea of what is happening and they don’t share any information with each other. However, they will both evolve in this first novel, Duncan will understand that nothing is what it seems and that he finally went too far in this quest, Neva meanwhile, will lose the innocence she had at first to realize that everything has consequences on her life. But nothing is more important for her than Savannah. And when Duncan makes no effort to resist to their attraction, our heroine is determined to not let him do what he wants, she is determined to not play nice after what he had done to her.
This first volume is very addictive and I think this is the book by Keri Arthur I preferred. I read it in a few hours, unable to put it down and wanting to know more about the adventures of our two protagonists. After a part of the book we know about the identity of the culprit but little about his motivations, we remain attentive to every detail. A very good book and I'm curious to read the second one about Savannah now.
My English review
And if I tell you that I was sure that Keri Arthur had only written two series? I do know the Riley Jensen one as I’ve almost finished it and I’m also curious to start the other series in this same universe. When I discovered that the author had written another series about werewolves, and when I saw this gorgeous cover, I knew I needed to read it.
Neva's twin sister, Savannah was attaqued and since this event she is at the hospital, struggling to survive. Neva is now determined to find the killer that her sister was hunting to make him pay for what he did to her family. Even if for that she must deny everything she believes in and must enter a whole new world. However, she has to keep it secret from her parents for fear of their reaction as they’re completely opposed to the kind of practice she intends to use. In fact, having read the records of her sister, she realizes they suspect the Sinclair pack, a very liberated pack on the margins of society. And the only way to find the culprit is to infiltrate this pack that her family hates and what a better way than to seduce Duncan a son of the alpha? I must say that our heroine had everything planned from the start, how to be chosen, how to dress, how to titillate his curiosity, but she had not expected that he would realize it was a trap and that he could trap herself by tying her to him for five days to see what happens. In addition to this, the murders continue and when our heroine tries to investigate about these events, and that Duncan thinks she's a spy hired by the killer, something is created between them little by little. Our Alpha Sinclair will do everything to break her and learn her motivations while our innocent heroine will do anything to uncover the truth, even if her life falls apart a little more each time that she is close to Duncan.
I loved this novel and these two characters are a delight to follow. Duncan has a totally twisted mind as soon as he decides that he wants the truth and Neva is just a naive girl looking for revenge. But she doesn't know what she is doing, nor the rules of this world. Everyone has its own idea of what is happening and they don’t share any information with each other. However, they will both evolve in this first novel, Duncan will understand that nothing is what it seems and that he finally went too far in this quest, Neva meanwhile, will lose the innocence she had at first to realize that everything has consequences on her life. But nothing is more important for her than Savannah. And when Duncan makes no effort to resist to their attraction, our heroine is determined to not let him do what he wants, she is determined to not play nice after what he had done to her.
This first volume is very addictive and I think this is the book by Keri Arthur I preferred. I read it in a few hours, unable to put it down and wanting to know more about the adventures of our two protagonists. After a part of the book we know about the identity of the culprit but little about his motivations, we remain attentive to every detail. A very good book and I'm curious to read the second one about Savannah now.
January 6, 2014
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: Neva would do anything to find her sister’s would be killer, even if it means ruining her reputation by being with Duncan Sinclair. Duncan is a well known playboy who makes no promises. Will they work together to find a killer or let suspicions get in the way?
Opening Sentence: The music swirled through the darkness, its beat rich and seductive.
Excerpt: Yes
The Review:
This book is a very steamy romantic mystery. Neva Grant is a werewolf and a twin. Her twin, Savannah and she are linked and can share thoughts and feelings. It is because of this that Neva experiences Savannah’s attack. Neva makes a vow that she will find the person responsible for hurting her sister. To do so she seduces Duncan Sinclair, a renowned playboy. Duncan has his own reasons for wanting to find the person responsible for killing three women and injuring another. Neva and Duncan can either help each other or hinder each other. If they can get past appearances and reputations they may just find a killer and their soul mates.
Neva Grant is a man’s dream come true. She has long golden hair, dark green eyes and a really nice figure. Even Duncan, a man who has been with many others, is drawn to her. Thankfully though, Neva has more going for her than looks or I would not have liked her. Neva is very loyal to her twin sister and would do anything for her even if it means hooking up with a bad boy and stalking down a killer. At first Neva came off seeming too timid and controllable, but as the story progresses Duncan helps bring out her wild side and unintentionally helps her stand up to her very controlling parents. As I mentioned before, Neva is a werewolf like so many others in her home town. There are two packs that are the most dominant. The pack that Neva belongs to is called the Golden Pack, and the other pack is called, the Silver Pack.
If Neva is a guy’s fantasy then Duncan is a woman’s fantasy. He is tall, dark and handsome. He is also athletically built, gives off a dangerous air, and very protective of his pack. Duncan and the Sinclair’s are from the Silver pack. At first Duncan acts like a jerk and he is hard to like, but once he realizes he has made an error in judgment he becomes a different guy all together. No one can look past his past and so he tends to act like his old self to protect himself.
This book was a very good book. If you love mysteries you may like this one. Of course if you do not enjoy a lot of intimate behavior then maybe this book is not one you should read. I think though that even with all of the intimate details there was enough else going on to make it an enjoyable read. The villain becomes clear fairly quickly but the reasons behind it take longer to figure out.
Notable Scene:
I remember that smell. It belonged to the wolf who attacked me. Fear flashed though her, spreading like fire through her body, lending her feet greater speed. He’s in the hospital with you? Not in the room. Sav hesitated. But close.
FTC Advisory: Bantam Dell/Random House provided me with a copy of Beneath a Rising Moon. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: Neva would do anything to find her sister’s would be killer, even if it means ruining her reputation by being with Duncan Sinclair. Duncan is a well known playboy who makes no promises. Will they work together to find a killer or let suspicions get in the way?
Opening Sentence: The music swirled through the darkness, its beat rich and seductive.
Excerpt: Yes
The Review:
This book is a very steamy romantic mystery. Neva Grant is a werewolf and a twin. Her twin, Savannah and she are linked and can share thoughts and feelings. It is because of this that Neva experiences Savannah’s attack. Neva makes a vow that she will find the person responsible for hurting her sister. To do so she seduces Duncan Sinclair, a renowned playboy. Duncan has his own reasons for wanting to find the person responsible for killing three women and injuring another. Neva and Duncan can either help each other or hinder each other. If they can get past appearances and reputations they may just find a killer and their soul mates.
Neva Grant is a man’s dream come true. She has long golden hair, dark green eyes and a really nice figure. Even Duncan, a man who has been with many others, is drawn to her. Thankfully though, Neva has more going for her than looks or I would not have liked her. Neva is very loyal to her twin sister and would do anything for her even if it means hooking up with a bad boy and stalking down a killer. At first Neva came off seeming too timid and controllable, but as the story progresses Duncan helps bring out her wild side and unintentionally helps her stand up to her very controlling parents. As I mentioned before, Neva is a werewolf like so many others in her home town. There are two packs that are the most dominant. The pack that Neva belongs to is called the Golden Pack, and the other pack is called, the Silver Pack.
If Neva is a guy’s fantasy then Duncan is a woman’s fantasy. He is tall, dark and handsome. He is also athletically built, gives off a dangerous air, and very protective of his pack. Duncan and the Sinclair’s are from the Silver pack. At first Duncan acts like a jerk and he is hard to like, but once he realizes he has made an error in judgment he becomes a different guy all together. No one can look past his past and so he tends to act like his old self to protect himself.
This book was a very good book. If you love mysteries you may like this one. Of course if you do not enjoy a lot of intimate behavior then maybe this book is not one you should read. I think though that even with all of the intimate details there was enough else going on to make it an enjoyable read. The villain becomes clear fairly quickly but the reasons behind it take longer to figure out.
Notable Scene:
I remember that smell. It belonged to the wolf who attacked me. Fear flashed though her, spreading like fire through her body, lending her feet greater speed. He’s in the hospital with you? Not in the room. Sav hesitated. But close.
FTC Advisory: Bantam Dell/Random House provided me with a copy of Beneath a Rising Moon. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
September 3, 2012
Beneath a Rising Moon by Keri Arthur is a werewolf-heavy paranormal romance. A copy of the book was provided to me by the US publisher for review purposes. I believe it was first published in 2008 (UK/Aus) and the edition I read was a US re-release.
This is the second book of Keri Arthur’s I’ve read, the first being Full Moon Rising, the first Riley Jensen Guardian book. Because I can’t help comparing, I’ll say I enjoyed Riley Jensen more, partly because she kicked more arse, partly because Full Moon Rising was set in Melbourne and partly for reasons I’ll get to shortly.
Beneath a Rising Moon follows Neva and Duncan as they investigate a series of murders in a small werewolf town in the vicinity of Aspen, and discover that they are soul mates.
Neva’s twin sister — to whom she is psychically linked — is head ranger and was attacked by the murderer but survived. While she’s in hospital, Neva decides to do some investigating of her own. As the full moon approaches, she goes to the Sinclair Mansion, renowned for its debauchery, and seduces the one Sinclair she knows can’t be the murderer, Duncan.
Duncan, meanwhile, has returned to Ripple Creek to investigate the murders that are somehow linked to his family (the dead girls were all sexual partners of his brothers). He quickly becomes suspicious of Neva’s motives in approaching him, believing her to be somehow linked with the murderer. So he decides to be an arsehole to her to get her to admit her motivations.
That was the point where the book lost a bit of appeal for me. While I understood what Duncan was trying to do, some of the ensuing sex scenes were a bit rapey (yes, I mean forcing her to have sex with him when she doesn’t want to and also while she’s asleep) and rather put me off. Then later, when everyone works out what’s going on, Duncan feels bad and tries to make amends but at no point does he sit down and apologise and explain to Neva. That she got over it anyway made me like her less as a character, although in general she was pretty good. Apparently they were destined to be together, but I would have liked to have more time spent on them overcoming their issues as a couple rather than just their personal issues (which were also plentiful).
Overall, Beneath a Rising Moon was well written and full of steamy sex scenes (except for those discussed above). If you enjoy paranormal romance and don’t think my qualms above would bother you, then give Beneath a Rising Moon a shot. Personally, I think other Keri Arthur books might be more my thing.
3.5 / 5 stars
This is the second book of Keri Arthur’s I’ve read, the first being Full Moon Rising, the first Riley Jensen Guardian book. Because I can’t help comparing, I’ll say I enjoyed Riley Jensen more, partly because she kicked more arse, partly because Full Moon Rising was set in Melbourne and partly for reasons I’ll get to shortly.
Beneath a Rising Moon follows Neva and Duncan as they investigate a series of murders in a small werewolf town in the vicinity of Aspen, and discover that they are soul mates.
Neva’s twin sister — to whom she is psychically linked — is head ranger and was attacked by the murderer but survived. While she’s in hospital, Neva decides to do some investigating of her own. As the full moon approaches, she goes to the Sinclair Mansion, renowned for its debauchery, and seduces the one Sinclair she knows can’t be the murderer, Duncan.
Duncan, meanwhile, has returned to Ripple Creek to investigate the murders that are somehow linked to his family (the dead girls were all sexual partners of his brothers). He quickly becomes suspicious of Neva’s motives in approaching him, believing her to be somehow linked with the murderer. So he decides to be an arsehole to her to get her to admit her motivations.
That was the point where the book lost a bit of appeal for me. While I understood what Duncan was trying to do, some of the ensuing sex scenes were a bit rapey (yes, I mean forcing her to have sex with him when she doesn’t want to and also while she’s asleep) and rather put me off. Then later, when everyone works out what’s going on, Duncan feels bad and tries to make amends but at no point does he sit down and apologise and explain to Neva. That she got over it anyway made me like her less as a character, although in general she was pretty good. Apparently they were destined to be together, but I would have liked to have more time spent on them overcoming their issues as a couple rather than just their personal issues (which were also plentiful).
Overall, Beneath a Rising Moon was well written and full of steamy sex scenes (except for those discussed above). If you enjoy paranormal romance and don’t think my qualms above would bother you, then give Beneath a Rising Moon a shot. Personally, I think other Keri Arthur books might be more my thing.
3.5 / 5 stars
August 9, 2012
GENRE: Paranormal Romance
THEME: Werewolves
RECEIVED: Bought
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
REVIEW:
I’ve been such a big fan of Keri Arthur ever since I finished the Riley Jenson series; I was happy to hear about the re-release of Beneath a Rising Moon and picked it up immediately. The lead female character has the toughness of Riley but other than that I liked the differences in the leads and of course the romance.
Beneath a Rising Moon follows Neva Grant, who has made a tough decision, infiltrate the Sinclair pack and track down the person who attacked her twin sister. But she’s about to meet one man who makes her mission so much harder, the bad boy of the pack Duncan Sinclair. In the end they both are looking for the same answers and both don’t realize the connection they have. With danger, love and hunger in the midst they need to work together before the killer strikes again.
Arthur created another fantastic tough and very smart female character in Neva. She has strong psychic abilities and an unbreakable connection with her twin, that makes her very dangerous. Even though this story focused a lot of Duncan and Neva as a couple, I really enjoyed the sisterly bond and love that Neva and Savannah have. They even have each other’s backs when their parents are against Neva’s decisions. Neva is a family girl and she would do anything for them even seduce Duncan who lives up to every rumor.
Duncan is the type of guy that makes girls not only weak in the knees but also even want to run away from…or let chase them. He’s the ultimate bad boy in all the right ways. I loved his cocky and hardcore attitude but as always in a man, he has the soft side that I love. He too is like Neva and very devoted to protecting his family, he has many brothers who are in danger and that are very wreak less. In the end he and Neva have some extremely hot and steamy scenes together.
Overall I enjoyed the mystery of the killer, even though I had a good idea about who it was, I didn’t know their reasons behind it. The pack life was discussed in a lot of depth and each pack was very different. The romance was better than ever and trust me when I say you may need a fan handy because the scenes get hot.
RECOMMENDATION:
This is a paranormal romance with sexual content that is suitable for adults. Fans of Karen MacInerney of Tales of an Urban Werewolf and Caitlin Kittredge of Nocturne City will love Beneath a Rising Moon by Keri Arthur.
THEME: Werewolves
RECEIVED: Bought
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
REVIEW:
I’ve been such a big fan of Keri Arthur ever since I finished the Riley Jenson series; I was happy to hear about the re-release of Beneath a Rising Moon and picked it up immediately. The lead female character has the toughness of Riley but other than that I liked the differences in the leads and of course the romance.
Beneath a Rising Moon follows Neva Grant, who has made a tough decision, infiltrate the Sinclair pack and track down the person who attacked her twin sister. But she’s about to meet one man who makes her mission so much harder, the bad boy of the pack Duncan Sinclair. In the end they both are looking for the same answers and both don’t realize the connection they have. With danger, love and hunger in the midst they need to work together before the killer strikes again.
Arthur created another fantastic tough and very smart female character in Neva. She has strong psychic abilities and an unbreakable connection with her twin, that makes her very dangerous. Even though this story focused a lot of Duncan and Neva as a couple, I really enjoyed the sisterly bond and love that Neva and Savannah have. They even have each other’s backs when their parents are against Neva’s decisions. Neva is a family girl and she would do anything for them even seduce Duncan who lives up to every rumor.
Duncan is the type of guy that makes girls not only weak in the knees but also even want to run away from…or let chase them. He’s the ultimate bad boy in all the right ways. I loved his cocky and hardcore attitude but as always in a man, he has the soft side that I love. He too is like Neva and very devoted to protecting his family, he has many brothers who are in danger and that are very wreak less. In the end he and Neva have some extremely hot and steamy scenes together.
Overall I enjoyed the mystery of the killer, even though I had a good idea about who it was, I didn’t know their reasons behind it. The pack life was discussed in a lot of depth and each pack was very different. The romance was better than ever and trust me when I say you may need a fan handy because the scenes get hot.
RECOMMENDATION:
This is a paranormal romance with sexual content that is suitable for adults. Fans of Karen MacInerney of Tales of an Urban Werewolf and Caitlin Kittredge of Nocturne City will love Beneath a Rising Moon by Keri Arthur.
August 25, 2016
Beneath a Rising Moon by Keri Arthur
First let me say that this book was given to me and on the front cover there is an endorsement by Kim Harrison whose books I really enjoy.
I haven’t been reading many fantasy/romance novels in a while so I decided it was long over do and picked up a book about Werewolves, magic, solving crimes, and romance.
Overall was an easy read. The novel retold many of the same issues and places throughout, I could just read the dialogue and not miss anything important.
Neva, the lead female werewolf, enters the scene to find the killer who is murdering young female werewolves and who put her twin sister in the hospital. She is going up against, Duncan Sinclair. Who has a bad reputation, as does his whole family, and has his own agenda.
The magic part comes in sporadically for some of the wolves, being able to communicate telepathically, reading others emotions and using the power of the moon to coerced others or bind others.
After Neva sneaks her way into the Moon Dance party (major four day orgy for werewolves) held at the Sinclair Mansion. She meets and is bond to Duncan Sinclair for the four days of the moon dance. Both hate/love, hate/love each other throughout. Both believe they are on opposite sides. And of course both in the end, work together to find the killer.
There was a lot of graphic sex scenes between Neva and Duncan. A true ‘romance’ novel. While crime fighting, they would have sex, think about sex or in Duncan’s case use the moon to make Neva do sexual things.
What I didn’t like about the novel was how Duncan controlled Neva by tricking her. Tricking her to follow his every command because she promised under the full of the moon to spend the next four days with him. Was this necessary to add to the novel? Neva was naïve and did not fully understand the power of the moon and the magic involved. Towards the end, Duncan once again lies to Neva and uses the moon magic to bind them together forever. Which forces Neva to have to choose between her family and Duncan. Her family has sworn that she will be kicked out of the pack if she stays with him, yet her heart and body wants him. What does she do? Love of family or follow her heart. I won’t give it away.
I did like the strong sister in the novel and how it made me wonder and question if I have the courage to go after what I truly want or do I play it safe?
Overall rating 2.5/5.
First let me say that this book was given to me and on the front cover there is an endorsement by Kim Harrison whose books I really enjoy.
I haven’t been reading many fantasy/romance novels in a while so I decided it was long over do and picked up a book about Werewolves, magic, solving crimes, and romance.
Overall was an easy read. The novel retold many of the same issues and places throughout, I could just read the dialogue and not miss anything important.
Neva, the lead female werewolf, enters the scene to find the killer who is murdering young female werewolves and who put her twin sister in the hospital. She is going up against, Duncan Sinclair. Who has a bad reputation, as does his whole family, and has his own agenda.
The magic part comes in sporadically for some of the wolves, being able to communicate telepathically, reading others emotions and using the power of the moon to coerced others or bind others.
After Neva sneaks her way into the Moon Dance party (major four day orgy for werewolves) held at the Sinclair Mansion. She meets and is bond to Duncan Sinclair for the four days of the moon dance. Both hate/love, hate/love each other throughout. Both believe they are on opposite sides. And of course both in the end, work together to find the killer.
There was a lot of graphic sex scenes between Neva and Duncan. A true ‘romance’ novel. While crime fighting, they would have sex, think about sex or in Duncan’s case use the moon to make Neva do sexual things.
What I didn’t like about the novel was how Duncan controlled Neva by tricking her. Tricking her to follow his every command because she promised under the full of the moon to spend the next four days with him. Was this necessary to add to the novel? Neva was naïve and did not fully understand the power of the moon and the magic involved. Towards the end, Duncan once again lies to Neva and uses the moon magic to bind them together forever. Which forces Neva to have to choose between her family and Duncan. Her family has sworn that she will be kicked out of the pack if she stays with him, yet her heart and body wants him. What does she do? Love of family or follow her heart. I won’t give it away.
I did like the strong sister in the novel and how it made me wonder and question if I have the courage to go after what I truly want or do I play it safe?
Overall rating 2.5/5.
August 28, 2012
Beneath a Rising Moon was my first Keri Arthur book and I found myself enchanted. At first I did not want to use enchanted as to me it implies a bit more of a mystical image than I want. This book has an earthier, darker feel to it and yet.. I was drawn in and found myself falling for the characters of Ripple Creek.
Neva Grant is the twin sister of the Ranger Savannah, the lead investigator in a series of killings in Ripple Creek. When Savannah herself is attacked, Neva takes things into her own hands. Never a good thing.. *grins* Neva has decided to infiltrate the local Sinclair pack's monthly orgy (for lack of a better term) to see if she can find the killer on her own. Once there she finds herself drawn not only by the werewolf's natural instincts to the moon, but to Duncan Sinclair, the baddest of the bad.
Duncan Sinclair has been called back to the pack to help investigate the killings that are being left at his packs door. Convinced that they will get no assistance from the local rangers, Duncan is committed to helping save his pack. While he has left his wild ways behind once he returns he is still a single wolf and the call of the sumptuous Neva pulls at him. Discovering that Neva had an alternative motive and not sure what it is, he is determined to keep her close at hand for more than the pull of the moon. Duncan demands Neva's attention and almost destroys her relationships with her family as well as her reputation. Convinced she is working for the killer in some way his manipulations lack all finesse. Sadly once he realizes that Neva is not the guilty party he thinks she is, things are in pretty sorry shape.
With all hopes of a relationship all but shattered Duncan and Neva still must work together to find the killer. As well as trying to find mutual ground in a relationship that is all but broken. They must fight his past, her family and those that just want them dead.. This book has plenty of sultry moments, an earthy sensuous series and I can not wait until the reprint of the next book in this series..
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Beneath a Rising Moon provided by netgalley
For more reviews by Shauni check out Tea and Book and
Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
Neva Grant is the twin sister of the Ranger Savannah, the lead investigator in a series of killings in Ripple Creek. When Savannah herself is attacked, Neva takes things into her own hands. Never a good thing.. *grins* Neva has decided to infiltrate the local Sinclair pack's monthly orgy (for lack of a better term) to see if she can find the killer on her own. Once there she finds herself drawn not only by the werewolf's natural instincts to the moon, but to Duncan Sinclair, the baddest of the bad.
Duncan Sinclair has been called back to the pack to help investigate the killings that are being left at his packs door. Convinced that they will get no assistance from the local rangers, Duncan is committed to helping save his pack. While he has left his wild ways behind once he returns he is still a single wolf and the call of the sumptuous Neva pulls at him. Discovering that Neva had an alternative motive and not sure what it is, he is determined to keep her close at hand for more than the pull of the moon. Duncan demands Neva's attention and almost destroys her relationships with her family as well as her reputation. Convinced she is working for the killer in some way his manipulations lack all finesse. Sadly once he realizes that Neva is not the guilty party he thinks she is, things are in pretty sorry shape.
With all hopes of a relationship all but shattered Duncan and Neva still must work together to find the killer. As well as trying to find mutual ground in a relationship that is all but broken. They must fight his past, her family and those that just want them dead.. This book has plenty of sultry moments, an earthy sensuous series and I can not wait until the reprint of the next book in this series..
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Beneath a Rising Moon provided by netgalley
For more reviews by Shauni check out Tea and Book and
Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
September 13, 2017
Received via FirstReads Giveaway.
I really loved Keri Arthur's Riley Jensen series so was very excited to get to read Beneath a Rising Moon, which was apparently written first, and has now been re-released.
It's clear that Arthur hadn't matured in her writing as much as in the Riley Jensen series as there were some definite anomalies when comparing. Not that I mean to compare them; it's more of an observation to set reader expectations.
The world building in this book is fairly weak. I know it takes place in the mountains of Colorado, with a small town and a large mansion as the primary locations within that context. Try as I might, I couldn't get a real picture in my head of what either might look like. Additionally, the 'rules' of what werewolves could/couldn't do (where do their clothes go when they change, hierarchy, etc) were very vague. I had to infer most of it, and frequently, I wasn't sure if I was right in my interpretation.
Also, I still don't know if this is a world that actually has humans in it. Is the setting (town) only comprised of werewolves? If humans exist in the world, are they aware of the werewolves?
I did like and believe in the romance between the protagonists, Neva and Duncan, which is good, since this actually is a paranormal romance, versus Urban Fantasy. Also, this helps alleviate some of the frustration about the lack of world building, which would have been disastrous in UF.
Overall, it was a pretty decent PNR, and I would recommend it.
I really loved Keri Arthur's Riley Jensen series so was very excited to get to read Beneath a Rising Moon, which was apparently written first, and has now been re-released.
It's clear that Arthur hadn't matured in her writing as much as in the Riley Jensen series as there were some definite anomalies when comparing. Not that I mean to compare them; it's more of an observation to set reader expectations.
The world building in this book is fairly weak. I know it takes place in the mountains of Colorado, with a small town and a large mansion as the primary locations within that context. Try as I might, I couldn't get a real picture in my head of what either might look like. Additionally, the 'rules' of what werewolves could/couldn't do (where do their clothes go when they change, hierarchy, etc) were very vague. I had to infer most of it, and frequently, I wasn't sure if I was right in my interpretation.
Also, I still don't know if this is a world that actually has humans in it. Is the setting (town) only comprised of werewolves? If humans exist in the world, are they aware of the werewolves?
I did like and believe in the romance between the protagonists, Neva and Duncan, which is good, since this actually is a paranormal romance, versus Urban Fantasy. Also, this helps alleviate some of the frustration about the lack of world building, which would have been disastrous in UF.
Overall, it was a pretty decent PNR, and I would recommend it.
August 15, 2012
I am a big fan of the Riley Jensen books and was so sad to see that series end. So I was stoked when I learned that there would be a new Werewolf series from Kerri Arthur. There are only a few differences, this time our Heroine is not as sexually free and tries to resist the urges of the dance. But the sex is just as steamy. And of course this series takes place in America (Colorado) instead of Australia. Which leads to my only issue with this book. When I first started reading it I was bothered by the lingo of the character's, because they "talked funny". And then I remembered, duh, Kerri Arthur is Australian. The fact that these were American character's, that were in America, they should be using American word and phrases. They often weren't and it was distracting. So Ms. Arthur and editor's please watch some American TV before you publish the next book so you can catch the little things like American don't say rubbish, we say garbage. Otherwise I loved the book. Riley Jensen fan's read this book. Urban Fantasy, sexy werewolf and shifter lover's, read this book. I can't wait for the next one.
July 11, 2013
It's never a good sign when I'm skipping, not only words, but pages of a book. I'm pretty strict with my reading and if I'm going to read a book I'm going to read every single, solitary word. I couldn't put myself through that kind of torture just to finish a book that I'm totally not feeling, and yet I just couldn't abandon because even though a book is crap I still need the closure of the end of the story. I'm usually pretty good at finding books that I enjoy and therefore rarely have to give a book a bad review. This was a sad excuse for a novel. I suppose it is in the genre of romance and although I totally digged these when I was in my early 20s, now they just seem like pathetic crap. There was way too much sex and not enough story. Had the story been better developed I think it would have be an okay read, but it just contained to much romance for my taste. I wouldn't recommend this book or this author to anyone and will probably shy away from any of her books in the future. My first atrocious read of the summer and hopefully the last.
March 19, 2011
Wow what a punch...this story got my attention right from the start and held my attention the whole way through...I loved Duncan but it wasn't at first site; he actually pissed me off in the beginning but he redeemed himself. Wow what a Were he turned out to be. Neva pissed me off too but I stayed that way for a lot of the book but she came through too. Can't say much more...wouldn't want to spoil your experience. I will say that Ms. Arthur is one hell of a writer; she just knows how to draw me in and hold my attention. Packed with action and passion. Actually the sex is off the charts. To bad this book one of only two. Getting ready to start Beneath a Darkening Moon.
This is a fast and easy read, only took me one day to get through it.
I highly recommend this book and this author.
Loved It!!!
This is a fast and easy read, only took me one day to get through it.
I highly recommend this book and this author.
Loved It!!!
February 3, 2012
Just finished reading this book and I absolutely loved it! Borrowed a copy from the library, but I will definately be buying my own copy as I want to read it again already!
The story follows Neva, a golden wolf, as she attempts to seduce Duncan, a wolf from the sinclair pack, in order to investigate the identity of the wolf who attacked her twin sister, who remains critical in hospital.
As you can probably guess, they fall in love with each other, and the rest of the story involves them learning to trust each other, and giving in to the fact that they are in love.
The identity of the attacker is quite easy to guess easrly on, but this doesn't detract from the story at all.
Overall I thought that this book was fab, but it is more romance than fantasy based, and tends to get a bit steamy in places!
Thoroughly enjoyable.
The story follows Neva, a golden wolf, as she attempts to seduce Duncan, a wolf from the sinclair pack, in order to investigate the identity of the wolf who attacked her twin sister, who remains critical in hospital.
As you can probably guess, they fall in love with each other, and the rest of the story involves them learning to trust each other, and giving in to the fact that they are in love.
The identity of the attacker is quite easy to guess easrly on, but this doesn't detract from the story at all.
Overall I thought that this book was fab, but it is more romance than fantasy based, and tends to get a bit steamy in places!
Thoroughly enjoyable.
July 13, 2014
I couldn't get past book 2 of Arthur's Riley Jenson series but this was oh so much better. I was pleasantly surprised. It's set in the same world with the same "rules" and although I believe the story to be forgettable but it was an incredibly satisfying read.
The characters were well rounded and mostly likeable. When I say mostly, I mean Duncan when he turned into a bastard and started pushing Neva too far, hurting her and damaging her relationship with her parents even if she did need to stand up to them he didn't have to force her to do it in such a horrible way.
The story was interesting and engrossing. I'm not usually a fan of so much sex in my books because the plot suffers more often than not. In this case it didn't. Yay!
The characters were well rounded and mostly likeable. When I say mostly, I mean Duncan when he turned into a bastard and started pushing Neva too far, hurting her and damaging her relationship with her parents even if she did need to stand up to them he didn't have to force her to do it in such a horrible way.
The story was interesting and engrossing. I'm not usually a fan of so much sex in my books because the plot suffers more often than not. In this case it didn't. Yay!
December 28, 2017
Technically Im giving this review a 3.5 Stars. Im going to be honest i hated Duncan. He was controlling and manipulative. I understand Neva some what liked it, but it was still slightly against her will.
I am happy though in the end it worked itself out. I came to like Duncan despite his awful character at first.
Also there was a lot of sex. I get it they are werewolves, but come on. I don’t think there’s anyone with that high of a sex drive. (Not gonna lie it’s pretty steamy ;)..)
Overall it was a well written book. Kinda cheesy but that’s what i love. Love you book nerds! Time for me to go to bed since it’s 3AM.
When will i ever learn?
I am happy though in the end it worked itself out. I came to like Duncan despite his awful character at first.
Also there was a lot of sex. I get it they are werewolves, but come on. I don’t think there’s anyone with that high of a sex drive. (Not gonna lie it’s pretty steamy ;)..)
Overall it was a well written book. Kinda cheesy but that’s what i love. Love you book nerds! Time for me to go to bed since it’s 3AM.
When will i ever learn?
December 16, 2014
Why did I let this beauty sit on my TBR for entirely too long? This was *almost* a one day read, but sadly, I got sleepy around 2AM.
Holy hell was this a great read! If you've read any of Keri Arthur's other works, you know her werewolves tend to be very free with their loving during the full moon. This one gets it's claws in to you early and stays steamy throughout.
While there's the lots of a skinamax lovin', there's actually a pretty great who done it plot involving Neva and Duncan both searching for a killer that is on the loose.
Highly recommended.
Holy hell was this a great read! If you've read any of Keri Arthur's other works, you know her werewolves tend to be very free with their loving during the full moon. This one gets it's claws in to you early and stays steamy throughout.
While there's the lots of a skinamax lovin', there's actually a pretty great who done it plot involving Neva and Duncan both searching for a killer that is on the loose.
Highly recommended.
September 11, 2012
I liked this book, even if it's about werewolves and soul mates, so nothing particulary new. I have to admit I like the stories where, from a initial misunderstanding, love is so mixed with anger and fear about the other person's feelings. So this one is a big 3 stars for me and I really liked Duncan and Neva and I'm reading the next one as soon as I finish this review.
THANKS TO NETGALLEY AND RANDOM HOUSE PUBLISHING FOR THE PREVIEW
THANKS TO NETGALLEY AND RANDOM HOUSE PUBLISHING FOR THE PREVIEW
August 30, 2010
Disappointing. Immature writing. Do like the characters.
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