What do you think?
Rate this book
Gunnar: A Grizzly Shifter Alpha Romance
I witnessed a murder.
Wrong place. Wrong time. And now I’m a problem someone needs gone.
The cops don’t ask what I want. They deliver me straight to the last place anyone would think to look—deep in the mountains, to three feral brothers who live completely off-grid.
They say no one will find me here.
But hidden doesn’t mean safe.
Gunnar is their Alpha. The mountain is his territory. The rules are his—and from the moment I arrive, it’s clear he thinks I am too.
I should be planning my escape. Counting the days until I can leave.
Instead, I’m watching him.
The way people move when he enters a room.
The way his attention settles on me like it’s already decided something.
The way my body reacts before my brain can catch up.
Because the danger outside isn’t the only thing closing in.
And if I’m not careful—
I won’t just lose my freedom.
I might start to want this.
If you love obsessed, possessive grizzly-shifter heroes, a heroine who refuses to be handled, and a mix of danger, tension, and snowbound isolation, you’ll love Gunnar and Alexandria’s story.
Wrong place. Wrong time. And now I’m a problem someone needs gone.
The cops don’t ask what I want. They deliver me straight to the last place anyone would think to look—deep in the mountains, to three feral brothers who live completely off-grid.
They say no one will find me here.
But hidden doesn’t mean safe.
Gunnar is their Alpha. The mountain is his territory. The rules are his—and from the moment I arrive, it’s clear he thinks I am too.
I should be planning my escape. Counting the days until I can leave.
Instead, I’m watching him.
The way people move when he enters a room.
The way his attention settles on me like it’s already decided something.
The way my body reacts before my brain can catch up.
Because the danger outside isn’t the only thing closing in.
And if I’m not careful—
I won’t just lose my freedom.
I might start to want this.
If you love obsessed, possessive grizzly-shifter heroes, a heroine who refuses to be handled, and a mix of danger, tension, and snowbound isolation, you’ll love Gunnar and Alexandria’s story.
224 pages, Paperback
Published May 15, 2026
About the author
Ariana Hawkes
106 books511 followersUSA Today bestselling author Ariana Hawkes writes spicy romantic stories with lovable characters, plenty of suspense, and a whole lot of laughs. She told her first story at the age of four, and has been writing ever since, for both work and pleasure. She lives in Massachusetts with her husband and two huskies.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
June 3, 2026
3.5 ⭐
novella, safe, dual v, fated mates 😄
novella, safe, dual v, fated mates 😄
May 31, 2026
Gunnar and Alexandria
This is my first book written by this author. I’m always wary of new authors because I like SAFE stories that won’t trigger me. This one is it for the exception of one detail.
Things I liked:
These shifters wait for their mate and it’s for life. So, there is no past romance for him. DUAL VIRGINS here… yaaayyy!!! The brotherly bond they have is special even though one of them is a little difficult. I like how alpha Gunnar is. Even though he is not the oldest of the 3 brothers, he is the Alpha of the clan.
I was expecting the mafia to find her at the lodge. But it was interesting how that got solved. At least Orson finally accepted her.
I also felt organic, not something instant. She didn’t want to stay because he saw these 3 turn and attack all those agents. So she was genuinely scared. But you get to see how the bond slowly goes into place. I loved that they had that mate bond and it was strong to the point where they could communicate in their minds. This is something you don’t read in every shifters books between shifter and human. I like it.
What I didn’t like and got me slightly mad was how he was always thinking that because she was human and wasn’t part of that shifter world, he was always gonna stay at a distance from her and not claim her. Even after things got solved and she wasn’t in danger, he was willing to let her go back to her apartment. That’s not what I like from shifters, nor what I’ve always read, not what an Alpha with a mate should be. Shifters are supposed to be possessive. “You’re mine” and that’s it. They make it work. No thought of letting her go. So, I didn’t like this aspect which was presented from beginning to almost the end when she got to decide finally she was staying. I would’ve preferred him saying that she could leave the lodge but he was going with her. Hence -1 ⭐️.
And the best was the end, where she felt part of the clan. Where the other 2 brothers protected her, accepted her in the clan. And when Gunnar was excited to have their first cub. ♥️
I am really looking forward to reading the other brother’s stories. Especially Orson’s.
This is my first book written by this author. I’m always wary of new authors because I like SAFE stories that won’t trigger me. This one is it for the exception of one detail.
Things I liked:
These shifters wait for their mate and it’s for life. So, there is no past romance for him. DUAL VIRGINS here… yaaayyy!!! The brotherly bond they have is special even though one of them is a little difficult. I like how alpha Gunnar is. Even though he is not the oldest of the 3 brothers, he is the Alpha of the clan.
I was expecting the mafia to find her at the lodge. But it was interesting how that got solved. At least Orson finally accepted her.
I also felt organic, not something instant. She didn’t want to stay because he saw these 3 turn and attack all those agents. So she was genuinely scared. But you get to see how the bond slowly goes into place. I loved that they had that mate bond and it was strong to the point where they could communicate in their minds. This is something you don’t read in every shifters books between shifter and human. I like it.
What I didn’t like and got me slightly mad was how he was always thinking that because she was human and wasn’t part of that shifter world, he was always gonna stay at a distance from her and not claim her. Even after things got solved and she wasn’t in danger, he was willing to let her go back to her apartment. That’s not what I like from shifters, nor what I’ve always read, not what an Alpha with a mate should be. Shifters are supposed to be possessive. “You’re mine” and that’s it. They make it work. No thought of letting her go. So, I didn’t like this aspect which was presented from beginning to almost the end when she got to decide finally she was staying. I would’ve preferred him saying that she could leave the lodge but he was going with her. Hence -1 ⭐️.
And the best was the end, where she felt part of the clan. Where the other 2 brothers protected her, accepted her in the clan. And when Gunnar was excited to have their first cub. ♥️
I am really looking forward to reading the other brother’s stories. Especially Orson’s.
Did Not Finish
June 6, 2026Barely past 30% not worth rating.
The story is meh, a been-done setup and thin concept which felt like facts were missing.
My problem was the writing. Some pages it was like reading a list, can't call it paragraphs, more a series of short sentences. There's no flow.
We're told Alexandria -no name shortening allowed- is scared but it's not shown, she's oddly composed. While Gunnar is all mine, but oh no stand back.
There's nothing here and with the writing structure.. nope.
The story is meh, a been-done setup and thin concept which felt like facts were missing.
My problem was the writing. Some pages it was like reading a list, can't call it paragraphs, more a series of short sentences. There's no flow.
We're told Alexandria -no name shortening allowed- is scared but it's not shown, she's oddly composed. While Gunnar is all mine, but oh no stand back.
There's nothing here and with the writing structure.. nope.
June 8, 2026
Good quick read
As the title says this was a good quick read. The storyline was good but could have been wonderful with more details keeping you gripped into the story. Everything was just so quick and easy. The characters were appealing but I just wanted more involvement and depth. Some people love a quick easy read I just prefer a bit more to my books.
As the title says this was a good quick read. The storyline was good but could have been wonderful with more details keeping you gripped into the story. Everything was just so quick and easy. The characters were appealing but I just wanted more involvement and depth. Some people love a quick easy read I just prefer a bit more to my books.
July 7, 2026
Not Bad
H: Gunner (Bear Shifter)
h: Alexandria (human)
After witnessing a murder where a Russian Mafia guy saw her face, detective Harris decided to take her to this Bear Clan (not sure how he heard abt this Bear shifter clan, also it seems shifters are not living in hiding) so upon arriving here, Gunner recognized her as his mate & decide to protect her.
The story itself is not bad, but once again I feel like there is a disconnect in the story & this happens when the author decides not to share with the reader important information.
Example 1- when Gunner was talking abt “mates” & what it means for a Bear shifter when they find their mates. Once they decided to sleep together he bit her & then she (Alexandria) tells us that Gunner told her abt the mating bite. That convo never happened!
Example 2- after Orson (Gunner’s younger brother) gets shot & after getting him settle Alexandria started asking questions & Gunner tells her he will tell her “tomorrow” the nxt chapter is a few days later & we (the readers) have no idea what actually happened the nxt day which to me was crucial for me to find out what happened after the bad guy is no longer a problem. Because of I gave it 3 stars.
H: Gunner (Bear Shifter)
h: Alexandria (human)
After witnessing a murder where a Russian Mafia guy saw her face, detective Harris decided to take her to this Bear Clan (not sure how he heard abt this Bear shifter clan, also it seems shifters are not living in hiding) so upon arriving here, Gunner recognized her as his mate & decide to protect her.
The story itself is not bad, but once again I feel like there is a disconnect in the story & this happens when the author decides not to share with the reader important information.
Example 1- when Gunner was talking abt “mates” & what it means for a Bear shifter when they find their mates. Once they decided to sleep together he bit her & then she (Alexandria) tells us that Gunner told her abt the mating bite. That convo never happened!
Example 2- after Orson (Gunner’s younger brother) gets shot & after getting him settle Alexandria started asking questions & Gunner tells her he will tell her “tomorrow” the nxt chapter is a few days later & we (the readers) have no idea what actually happened the nxt day which to me was crucial for me to find out what happened after the bad guy is no longer a problem. Because of I gave it 3 stars.
May 15, 2026
Gunnar by Ariana Hawkes was such a fun, addictive quick read! What starts with Alexandria witnessing a murder quickly spirals into danger, secrets, and an unexpected refuge with Gunnar and his brothers… who just happen to be shifters.
This story had everything I wanted in a fast paranormal romance: fated mates, protective alpha energy, a touch of suspense, and several genuinely hilarious moments that made me smile. The chemistry between Gunnar and Alexandria was sweet and effortless, and the brothers completely stole the show for me. Their dynamic added so much charm and personality to the story that I found myself just as invested in them as I was in the romance itself.
Even though the story delivers a satisfying HEA, the journey there was entertaining from start to finish. The mix of danger, humor, and heart made this one incredibly easy to devour in one sitting. And after meeting these brothers, I absolutely cannot wait to see how the other two fall when it’s their turn.
📌 Voluntary review. No compensation just one reader enjoying the ride.
This story had everything I wanted in a fast paranormal romance: fated mates, protective alpha energy, a touch of suspense, and several genuinely hilarious moments that made me smile. The chemistry between Gunnar and Alexandria was sweet and effortless, and the brothers completely stole the show for me. Their dynamic added so much charm and personality to the story that I found myself just as invested in them as I was in the romance itself.
Even though the story delivers a satisfying HEA, the journey there was entertaining from start to finish. The mix of danger, humor, and heart made this one incredibly easy to devour in one sitting. And after meeting these brothers, I absolutely cannot wait to see how the other two fall when it’s their turn.
📌 Voluntary review. No compensation just one reader enjoying the ride.
May 17, 2026
This was such a fun and entertaining series opener. Alexandria witnesses a murder and is taken to an isolated cabin for protective custody by three brothers. The agent knew of shifters and figured she'd be safest with these bear shifters. Little did he know he was delivering Gunnar's fated mate... It was fun following the interactions between the brothers and I was giggling throughout. This story starts off with action and the fast pace doesn't really let up. Expect to be glued to your reader as you follow a strong human gal and her bear shifter mate to their HEA. There was plenty of action, drama, suspense, humour, heart and heat, making it a page turner for me. I'm really looking forward to the next book. Good fun!
June 15, 2026
Gunnar is completely feral in the best way… protective, possessive, obsessive, and full of rugged mountain-man energy. Beneath all that growly "you're mine" intensity is a surprisingly sweet and cuddly alpha that made my heart *sigh*!
The chemistry between Gunnar and Alexandria sizzles instantly, while the danger, banter, and heat create the perfect trifecta. Fast-paced, addictive, and packed with mountain-bear shifter goodness, this was an entertaining read that I flew through and loved every minute of it.
💫 Gunnar (Feral Mountain Bears, 1) by Ariana Hawkes
Romantic Suspense | Witness Protection | Forced Proximity | Found Family | Bear Shifter Alpha x Human | 226 pp | 4⭐️
💫 Favorite Quote:
"She can fight me. She can hate me. It won’t change what she is. Mine."
The chemistry between Gunnar and Alexandria sizzles instantly, while the danger, banter, and heat create the perfect trifecta. Fast-paced, addictive, and packed with mountain-bear shifter goodness, this was an entertaining read that I flew through and loved every minute of it.
💫 Gunnar (Feral Mountain Bears, 1) by Ariana Hawkes
Romantic Suspense | Witness Protection | Forced Proximity | Found Family | Bear Shifter Alpha x Human | 226 pp | 4⭐️
💫 Favorite Quote:
"She can fight me. She can hate me. It won’t change what she is. Mine."
July 21, 2026
Grizzly Shifter Alpha Romance
This book keeps you thinking about the characters long after you’ve set it down. Witnessing a murder by the Russian mafia and then becoming the next target; forcing the police to take “you” to a safe house. Which ends up not being a real safe house but rather a dusty old “resort” inhabited by three very large and dangerous grizzly bear shifters. And then learning that the alpha grizzly shifter announces you’re his mate. And most shocking of all-you’re ok with becoming his mate. Of course, nothing goes smoothly. There’s the younger brother who’s the troublemaker and doesn’t like you because you’re human, the Russian mafia find you, and the twists and turn keep coming. Just start reading, you’ll be glad you did.
This book keeps you thinking about the characters long after you’ve set it down. Witnessing a murder by the Russian mafia and then becoming the next target; forcing the police to take “you” to a safe house. Which ends up not being a real safe house but rather a dusty old “resort” inhabited by three very large and dangerous grizzly bear shifters. And then learning that the alpha grizzly shifter announces you’re his mate. And most shocking of all-you’re ok with becoming his mate. Of course, nothing goes smoothly. There’s the younger brother who’s the troublemaker and doesn’t like you because you’re human, the Russian mafia find you, and the twists and turn keep coming. Just start reading, you’ll be glad you did.
May 16, 2026
It had been a while since I had had the pleasure of reading one of Ms. Hawkes' books, and I wonder what took me so long! What a refreshing tale she has spun, complete with suspense, plenty of excitement and thrills, and the cherry on top being a wonderful love story! Gunner is a special breed, and truly, Fate has made sure that Alexandria is in the right place at the wrong time! Plenty of sparks flying when this duo come into the same circle, even if they may have not all been the safe kind!
Looking forward to reading Orson and Torin's stories as well! A great beginning to what promises to be a stellar series!
I was gifted a copy of this book and am giving my honest opinion
Looking forward to reading Orson and Torin's stories as well! A great beginning to what promises to be a stellar series!
I was gifted a copy of this book and am giving my honest opinion
May 19, 2026
Alexandria and Gunnar are meant to be together, but she’s a city girl and he’s a shifter living off the grid. Ariana Hawkes is amazing: the emotional depth, the family dynamics, and their life is beautifully crafted detail and dialogue. I felt her confusion, her attraction, and her ability to adapt as she’s thrown into a new world. This is a quick read that kept my attention from beginning to end with suspense, mafia vs shifter, forced proximity, and a wild setting! The cover is gorgeous, the story is exciting, and I love the characters! I’m ready for the next book because these brothers are intense! Thank you for the ARC, my review is my honest opinion.
4.5 🌟plot and 4🌶️.
4.5 🌟plot and 4🌶️.
June 22, 2026
My first read from Ariana Hawkes
I don’t remember how I came across this book, I think it was a Facebook ad. I was looking for another new read got my hands on this and I have to say I absolutely enjoyed reading this book. Gunnar and Alexandria love the chemistry between these two.. And I loved how this storyline just develops. You have three bear shifter brothers, who are literally secluded from the outside world and here comes a human who happens to be the alpha’s mate and well you can imagine the rest. I really did like reading this book and I can’t wait for other books in this series to come out. Definitely a must read five stars.
I don’t remember how I came across this book, I think it was a Facebook ad. I was looking for another new read got my hands on this and I have to say I absolutely enjoyed reading this book. Gunnar and Alexandria love the chemistry between these two.. And I loved how this storyline just develops. You have three bear shifter brothers, who are literally secluded from the outside world and here comes a human who happens to be the alpha’s mate and well you can imagine the rest. I really did like reading this book and I can’t wait for other books in this series to come out. Definitely a must read five stars.
July 4, 2026
Exciting start to a series
So glad I am across this book.
Shes on the run after seeing something she shouldnt have. The safe house shes dropped off at isn't what she had in mind, 3 shifters there and one making it clear he will protect her.
Hes found her but can he get her to stay?
Not going to lie the first few chapters I found the FMC annoying but she grew on me and I loved the book. Roll on the next book!
Book quote:
Then her scent hits me with full force. Everything stops. I stop breathing. No. Not possible. There’s no one out there for me. I made peace with that a long time ago. Buried it. But now she stands in my clearing. Scared. Fierce. Captive. Mine.
So glad I am across this book.
Shes on the run after seeing something she shouldnt have. The safe house shes dropped off at isn't what she had in mind, 3 shifters there and one making it clear he will protect her.
Hes found her but can he get her to stay?
Not going to lie the first few chapters I found the FMC annoying but she grew on me and I loved the book. Roll on the next book!
Book quote:
Then her scent hits me with full force. Everything stops. I stop breathing. No. Not possible. There’s no one out there for me. I made peace with that a long time ago. Buried it. But now she stands in my clearing. Scared. Fierce. Captive. Mine.
August 2, 2026
I had a completely different experience from most of the people that have rated this book. First off, the writing style was not one that I normally enjoy; there were hardly any paragraphs, mostly just chopped up thoughts, sentences and quotes. It made it especially difficult to know who was talking and saying what.
I have zero proof that this author used AI to create this book, however, it read like it was generated by AI.
Overall, there were a lot of problems, especially towards the end. Things happen that make zero sense or the MMC allows things that he shouldn't based on the personality that the author created. It just really took me away from the story and made it feel disjointed.
I have zero proof that this author used AI to create this book, however, it read like it was generated by AI.
Overall, there were a lot of problems, especially towards the end. Things happen that make zero sense or the MMC allows things that he shouldn't based on the personality that the author created. It just really took me away from the story and made it feel disjointed.
May 14, 2026
I enjoyed this quick read where a human girl witnesses a murder and ends up hiding with brothers who happen to be shifters. A simple tale of fated mates with one of the brothers, a bit of drama and some hilarious scenes due to the shifter vs human (at least I found a few to be hilarious). While eventually get a happy ending the journey there was a hoot to me. I enjoyed the story and the characters were entertaining. And since meet these boys, I cannot wait to see how the other two brothers fall.
June 13, 2026
Kindle Unlimited Read & Listen Free.
Audio narrated by "virtual voice"
Ok. I'm just gonna say it. If you're going to offer narration, hire a person to narrate. The virtual voice is terrible and mispronounced a lot of words. Honestly, Alexa can read better than this virtual voice.
The book was okay. I really liked the concept but I felt like there were too many ideas that weren't completely thought out and not fully integrated into the story. It was a bit anti climactic for me. Honestly I was hoping for more shifter vs shifter action and there was none.
Audio narrated by "virtual voice"
Ok. I'm just gonna say it. If you're going to offer narration, hire a person to narrate. The virtual voice is terrible and mispronounced a lot of words. Honestly, Alexa can read better than this virtual voice.
The book was okay. I really liked the concept but I felt like there were too many ideas that weren't completely thought out and not fully integrated into the story. It was a bit anti climactic for me. Honestly I was hoping for more shifter vs shifter action and there was none.
May 22, 2026
DNF at 30%
Ariana Hawkes used to be one of my favorite authors for shifter romance novellas as she had such an easy writing style that coupled well with heartfelt stories. However, I just could not get into the writing style of this story! Recently I've noticed a trend in shifter romances where the writing style is short and choppy, and unfortunately this story follows that which makes it hard to read. I don't think I'll continue this series or read any of Ariana's new books💔
Ariana Hawkes used to be one of my favorite authors for shifter romance novellas as she had such an easy writing style that coupled well with heartfelt stories. However, I just could not get into the writing style of this story! Recently I've noticed a trend in shifter romances where the writing style is short and choppy, and unfortunately this story follows that which makes it hard to read. I don't think I'll continue this series or read any of Ariana's new books💔
July 25, 2026
Alpha Bear Shifter Gunnar and Human Alexandria’s love story.. they meet when she witnesses a killing by the Russian Mafia .. and she needs to be a protected witness.
Gunnar and his two bear shifter brothers live in an isolated lodge where they have spent a couple of years after political clan issues caused them to leave.
Gunnar finds that Alexandria just may be his Mate.
And that causes some discord with his one brother.
Gunnar and his two bear shifter brothers live in an isolated lodge where they have spent a couple of years after political clan issues caused them to leave.
Gunnar finds that Alexandria just may be his Mate.
And that causes some discord with his one brother.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2026
Wow, I love shifter stories and this one doesn’t disappoint. A girl witnesses a murder and is taken to an isolated abandoned lodge inhabited by three brothers, who are bear shifters. From the first interaction there is nonstop smolder and drama. Great read, great characters. Can’t wait for the next book in the series.
May 19, 2026
Alexandria witnessed a murder and the police took her somewhere safe which happened to be an isolated lodge where three bear shifters live. The alpha is Gunnar and his two brothers are there also. There is an immediate attraction between Gunnar and Alexandria. They are mates.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
Excellent Bear Shifter romance!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
Excellent Bear Shifter romance!
May 30, 2026
Ok read!
Book was slow at first but then picked up some very anticlimactic in the end. Wished it had a little more background on all the characters but it gave enough to understand their positions
Book was slow at first but then picked up some very anticlimactic in the end. Wished it had a little more background on all the characters but it gave enough to understand their positions
July 1, 2026
Gunnar and Alexandria
Interesting story that grabs your attention from start to finish. The main characters are loveable and unique, it's a slow burn romance with a happily ever after with no cliffhanger.
Interesting story that grabs your attention from start to finish. The main characters are loveable and unique, it's a slow burn romance with a happily ever after with no cliffhanger.
July 7, 2026
It was a good quick read
There was some points that I openly cringed at the way they spoke to each other during intimate scenes but that could just be a me thing. Felt immature to me idk. It was still good though.
There was some points that I openly cringed at the way they spoke to each other during intimate scenes but that could just be a me thing. Felt immature to me idk. It was still good though.
July 22, 2026
Nice writing author. Thanks.
Feral describes these brothers correctly. The story starts off with action and ends marvelously. I enjoyed reading this first book. Gonna start the next.
Feral describes these brothers correctly. The story starts off with action and ends marvelously. I enjoyed reading this first book. Gonna start the next.
July 27, 2026
Fun read!!
Nice quick fun read, I quite enjoyed this book!
Insta love, is generally not my thing, but its clearly the so called "mate bond" trope... so I will allow it 🤭
Looking forward to the rest of the series!!
Nice quick fun read, I quite enjoyed this book!
Insta love, is generally not my thing, but its clearly the so called "mate bond" trope... so I will allow it 🤭
Looking forward to the rest of the series!!
July 29, 2026
Grizzly and his mate
Great story - it had a bit of fairy tale vibes mixed with a bit mafia & shifter. It is a quick read, but it had plenty of twist and turns with drama, angst. insta attraction, a little spice, action and some violence.
Great story - it had a bit of fairy tale vibes mixed with a bit mafia & shifter. It is a quick read, but it had plenty of twist and turns with drama, angst. insta attraction, a little spice, action and some violence.
August 8, 2026
Excellent
Great storyline, suspense drama laughter inks and resistance. 🔥🔥I tried to read it cover to cover but was not able to because of time.. Great start to a series really enjoyed the characters I like the fact that she's not a passive female.She's feisty.
Great storyline, suspense drama laughter inks and resistance. 🔥🔥I tried to read it cover to cover but was not able to because of time.. Great start to a series really enjoyed the characters I like the fact that she's not a passive female.She's feisty.
May 16, 2026
Loved it🦁
I really enjoyed reading this book 📚 from this series. The writing and subject matter is well worth reading. The family bond, romance and the HEA.
I really enjoyed reading this book 📚 from this series. The writing and subject matter is well worth reading. The family bond, romance and the HEA.
May 16, 2026
Arc review For a honest review in my own words on a book I read. What a adorable story of how Alexandria lands on brother's gunner, irson, and torrin land.
May 24, 2026
What a treat to read a out Gunnar and Alexandria. Nice space. The plot could use some finetuning but it was minor that it did not distract from the story.
Curious who's up next. Orson? Or Torin?
Curious who's up next. Orson? Or Torin?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews