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A Lion's Pride #1
When An Alpha Purrs
A lion’s pride isn’t defined only by those he commands but also resides with his hair, so when a human dares to butcher Arik’s mane, he gets his revenge - and claims her as his mate!
A billionaire CEO and leader of the largest East Coast pride, Arik is a ladies man and a lion. Used to commanding others, and obedience, he can’t believe it when a hairdresser with tempting curves chops off a hunk of his precious mane.
But her biggest mistake is in running from him.
Run as fast as you can, little mouse, because this cat loves to chase - and pounce.
Oh, and he also likes to nibble on tender bits. What he doesn’t expect is to fall for a human woman, a woman who can make the impossible happen because everyone knows lions can’t purr... until now.
188 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 4, 2015
1477 people are currently reading
3379 people want to read
About the author
Eve Langlais
349 books5,401 followers~ New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author
Hello, my name is Eve Langlais and I am an International Bestselling author who loves to write hot romance, usually with werewolves, cyborgs or aliens .
I should warn you, I have a twisted imagination and a sarcastic sense of humor something I like to let loose in my writing. While well known for my shifter stories, I am also extremely partial to aliens, the kind who like to abduct humans and then drive them insane...with pleasure. Or do you like something a little darker, more serious? Then check out my cyborgs whose battle with humanity have captivated readers worldwide.
If you'd like to know more, read some excerpts or find out what I’m working on, then please visit me at http://www.EveLanglais.com or sign up for my newsletter at http://www.evelanglais.com/newrelease .
I am also extremely active on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eve.langlais.98
Hello, my name is Eve Langlais and I am an International Bestselling author who loves to write hot romance, usually with werewolves, cyborgs or aliens .
I should warn you, I have a twisted imagination and a sarcastic sense of humor something I like to let loose in my writing. While well known for my shifter stories, I am also extremely partial to aliens, the kind who like to abduct humans and then drive them insane...with pleasure. Or do you like something a little darker, more serious? Then check out my cyborgs whose battle with humanity have captivated readers worldwide.
If you'd like to know more, read some excerpts or find out what I’m working on, then please visit me at http://www.EveLanglais.com or sign up for my newsletter at http://www.evelanglais.com/newrelease .
I am also extremely active on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eve.langlais.98
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 747 reviews
November 21, 2019
Humorous story with realistic reactions when heroine finds out about shifters
In the beginning, I thought this book might be a bit too over the top, with the way the Hero Arik, an Alpha Lion shifter was so arrogant and crazy about how he wanted his hair. I mean after the heroine Kira, got nervous while cutting his hair due to all of his come ons and mistakenly chopped off too much in one section, he actually said the following,
The story immediately starts to get better though, as Kira drops her scissors and runs. It not only gets funnier after that, but the romance is blisteringly hot. The bedroom scenes are smoking and the chemistry between the two main characters is perfect. Arik is a true Alpha male and his Lion is all ”Mine!” I don’t know about you but I love it when they do that in books. And in this one, they do it the right way.
Kira has an ex boyfriend who had the wrong idea of “Mine”, meaning the jealous, possessive, stalker version. She left her old hometown after he burned down her hair salon. However, he finds her and comes after her. Arik wants to help her deal with the situation. This also brings up some both serious as well as funny scenes in the book. I won’t give away spoilers, but I did highlight a few of the funny scenes, so you can check those in my Goodreads Highlights, if you want.
Overall, I ended up enjoying the book much more than I expected to and I give the book a solid 4 stars.
In the beginning, I thought this book might be a bit too over the top, with the way the Hero Arik, an Alpha Lion shifter was so arrogant and crazy about how he wanted his hair. I mean after the heroine Kira, got nervous while cutting his hair due to all of his come ons and mistakenly chopped off too much in one section, he actually said the following,
“Ack! My mane. My beautiful, precious mane.”
The story immediately starts to get better though, as Kira drops her scissors and runs. It not only gets funnier after that, but the romance is blisteringly hot. The bedroom scenes are smoking and the chemistry between the two main characters is perfect. Arik is a true Alpha male and his Lion is all ”Mine!” I don’t know about you but I love it when they do that in books. And in this one, they do it the right way.
“Who said anything about being a slave? I can promise, when you are mine”—she noted his use of when, not if—“ you won’t have any chores to do. I’ve got more than enough staff to cater to your needs. Well, except for any lusty needs. Those I intend to handle myself.”
“So I’m to be your sex slave? How is that any better?”
“Mouse, you have some very messed-up ideas when it comes to men. When I say mine, I mean you’re my woman. My mate.”
Kira has an ex boyfriend who had the wrong idea of “Mine”, meaning the jealous, possessive, stalker version. She left her old hometown after he burned down her hair salon. However, he finds her and comes after her. Arik wants to help her deal with the situation. This also brings up some both serious as well as funny scenes in the book. I won’t give away spoilers, but I did highlight a few of the funny scenes, so you can check those in my Goodreads Highlights, if you want.
Overall, I ended up enjoying the book much more than I expected to and I give the book a solid 4 stars.
July 17, 2018
Hit the spot...nearly
Straight up, I liked When an Alpha Purrs. It's not overly long, hits most of the right buttons when it comes to paranormal romances I enjoy and the narrator has a very easy voice to listen to. Sure, she's a bit of a numbskull, he's a bit whiney for an Alpha and his mother would make a saint swear, but, I was entertained.
I had to chuckle a few times when the narrator says ROAR in a fairly bland voice. I'm not sure what the best way for a narrator to perform this, as it would probably be even funnier if he tried to literally roar. Maybe he could have put a wee bit of emotion into it so I could get at least a little excited/intimidated/impressed by the Alpha's mighty roar.
Wasn't the best and was far from the worst paranormal audio I've listened to, so I will go back for more when the mood strikes.
Straight up, I liked When an Alpha Purrs. It's not overly long, hits most of the right buttons when it comes to paranormal romances I enjoy and the narrator has a very easy voice to listen to. Sure, she's a bit of a numbskull, he's a bit whiney for an Alpha and his mother would make a saint swear, but, I was entertained.
I had to chuckle a few times when the narrator says ROAR in a fairly bland voice. I'm not sure what the best way for a narrator to perform this, as it would probably be even funnier if he tried to literally roar. Maybe he could have put a wee bit of emotion into it so I could get at least a little excited/intimidated/impressed by the Alpha's mighty roar.
Wasn't the best and was far from the worst paranormal audio I've listened to, so I will go back for more when the mood strikes.
April 28, 2018
~ 3.5 Stars ~
Eve Langlais is fast becoming one of my go-to authors. Her quirky sarcastic humor and adorably OTT shifter males are just so much fun to read. I am always left smiling and generally in a feel good mood.
Alpha Purrs was another funny and scorching hot read. Follows the same insta-lust/love as others I’ve read by this author but I’m not complaining. Shifter reads are my catnip because I love the idea of finding that one special someone that just clicks with you. And shifters are always so deliciously alpha and possessive!
Big alpha lion, Arik feels the instant pull for Kira, but being human, she doesn’t quiet grasp the importance of his sudden need to keep her close and claiming her as his. When a crazy ex comes into play, Arik whisks Kira off to safety and in his own adorably misguided way, tries to convince her they are fated mates.
Although not my favorite (Kira was a little too stand-offish with poor Arik and the TSTL moment – meh!) I still enjoyed it and really liked it. I can see myself revisiting this one and reading it again, if only to enjoy Arik’s funny one liners and remember his love of napping in the sunlight. Naked. *sigh*
Would I recommend?
For light and funny romance with a boat load of possessive alpha and sassy heroine, yes. Highly recommend!
SAFETY INFO:
Eve Langlais is fast becoming one of my go-to authors. Her quirky sarcastic humor and adorably OTT shifter males are just so much fun to read. I am always left smiling and generally in a feel good mood.
Alpha Purrs was another funny and scorching hot read. Follows the same insta-lust/love as others I’ve read by this author but I’m not complaining. Shifter reads are my catnip because I love the idea of finding that one special someone that just clicks with you. And shifters are always so deliciously alpha and possessive!
Big alpha lion, Arik feels the instant pull for Kira, but being human, she doesn’t quiet grasp the importance of his sudden need to keep her close and claiming her as his. When a crazy ex comes into play, Arik whisks Kira off to safety and in his own adorably misguided way, tries to convince her they are fated mates.
Although not my favorite (Kira was a little too stand-offish with poor Arik and the TSTL moment – meh!) I still enjoyed it and really liked it. I can see myself revisiting this one and reading it again, if only to enjoy Arik’s funny one liners and remember his love of napping in the sunlight. Naked. *sigh*
Would I recommend?
For light and funny romance with a boat load of possessive alpha and sassy heroine, yes. Highly recommend!
SAFETY INFO:
February 25, 2016
Traditional shifter story. Lion sees girl, thinks she's his, girls fears man, then jumps into bed with him. Girl wonders what a rich good-looking man sees in her and why is he interested. Blah, blah, blah. Girl learns man is a lion, a little fear now and then, then BAM! She finds herself in the position of the Alpha-female. The End!
A little cheesy for me, but not that bad. Not sure yet if I'll read the other books. Maybe I will :D
A little cheesy for me, but not that bad. Not sure yet if I'll read the other books. Maybe I will :D
January 10, 2018
uhhh the whole imprisoning the woman for her own good plotline is problematic in the second decade of the 21st century.
January 19, 2021
This was a quick entertaining read – fluffy, humorous (although not as much as I remember from my first read), with a little bit of insanity, and some steam and romance thrown into the mix.
Alpha lion – Arik is a bit of an ass at the start (reminded me a little of Shelly Laurenston’s lions in her PR books), and a bit of a misogynist, luckily not in such a painful way that I hated him or the read. Kira was entertaining and I liked the fact she didn’t put up with any of Arik’s BS.
Free on Amazon 24th August 2019 (this will be staying on my kindle).
Alpha lion – Arik is a bit of an ass at the start (reminded me a little of Shelly Laurenston’s lions in her PR books), and a bit of a misogynist, luckily not in such a painful way that I hated him or the read. Kira was entertaining and I liked the fact she didn’t put up with any of Arik’s BS.
Free on Amazon 24th August 2019 (this will be staying on my kindle).
December 23, 2016
Every time it was getting funny, it turned into boring. I was daydreaming by the halfway mark.
July 23, 2015
So much fun reading this book
November 9, 2024
This was an amusing light-hearted and humors read. When an Alpha Purrs is book one in A Lion’s Pride series by Eve Langlais.
I loved how the story started off. We dive into some very fun banter between our hero and heroine. It’s comical from the first line and just keeps getting better. The verbal teasing/sparing our leads do, adds to the story and sexual tension. We get just the right amount of sexiness to keep things fascinating.
Kira is a hairdresser and is running from her past, but as most things go our past always seams to catch up with us. Arik is described beautifuly by the heroine. He’s arrogant, sexiest and pompous, but oh so fun to read about. He soon decides he wants more from this spunky hairdresser.
When an Alpha Purrs is an amusing read that’s uncomplicated and makes you giggle. I read it in one sitting and I’m looking forward to continue A Lion’s Pride series, especially after the set up left for the next couple.
Rated: 3.5 Stars
I loved how the story started off. We dive into some very fun banter between our hero and heroine. It’s comical from the first line and just keeps getting better. The verbal teasing/sparing our leads do, adds to the story and sexual tension. We get just the right amount of sexiness to keep things fascinating.
Kira is a hairdresser and is running from her past, but as most things go our past always seams to catch up with us. Arik is described beautifuly by the heroine. He’s arrogant, sexiest and pompous, but oh so fun to read about. He soon decides he wants more from this spunky hairdresser.
When an Alpha Purrs is an amusing read that’s uncomplicated and makes you giggle. I read it in one sitting and I’m looking forward to continue A Lion’s Pride series, especially after the set up left for the next couple.
Rated: 3.5 Stars
July 3, 2015
Never judge a book by its cover - or in this case - think less of it just because the main character is a cat shifter (I am, and will always remain a dog person at heart.) You would think I'd learned my lesson after meeting Curran, but obviously not... I swear; I'm reformed. I am!
Arik, the Alpha of his Pride is a loveable, arrogant macho jerk, and the decidedly human hairdresser Kira, is his match from the moment they meet. She's the first person ever who dares to stand up to the king of the urban jungle. In fact, she decides to maim his precious mane as revenge for his arrogant ways. Too bad lions tend to eat their prey... Fortunately for Kira, both the man and his beast are in agreement; they want to nibble at her tender spots, maybe place a few love bites on her neck, not rip her to shreds. Because the man and his inner kitty both recognize their mate...
The dialogue is witty, his inner lion as possessive as you'd expect (and secretly love.) Talk about taking pissing contests to a whole nother level - shifter style! And their banter... oh, their banter is perfection. This mouse won't go down without a fight:
"Lioness?" And things just went from weird to where's the hidden camera.
"I am a lion. Therefore, it stands to serve that my woman would be a lioness."
Kira gasped as the truth hit her. "Oh hell, don't tell me you're one of those guys Who likes dressing up in those big teddy bear costumes?"
I loved their cat and mouse game, not to mention the first time Kira met the rest of the female pride... Those who loved Kate and Curran's mating game will probably love this couple as well.
And of course, the cat eventually gets to save the day, from a bad, bad wolf. (Okay, I can live with that scenario just this once;-) )
This book is why I love and devour Eve Langlais' novels. They're always fluffy, funny and sexy - and this one is ALMOST as good as her various Hell series. I'm so glad I bought it.
4.75 ☆
i have already preordered the next installment and am very much looking forward to reading it.
MEEEEOW!
Arik, the Alpha of his Pride is a loveable, arrogant macho jerk, and the decidedly human hairdresser Kira, is his match from the moment they meet. She's the first person ever who dares to stand up to the king of the urban jungle. In fact, she decides to maim his precious mane as revenge for his arrogant ways. Too bad lions tend to eat their prey... Fortunately for Kira, both the man and his beast are in agreement; they want to nibble at her tender spots, maybe place a few love bites on her neck, not rip her to shreds. Because the man and his inner kitty both recognize their mate...
The dialogue is witty, his inner lion as possessive as you'd expect (and secretly love.) Talk about taking pissing contests to a whole nother level - shifter style! And their banter... oh, their banter is perfection. This mouse won't go down without a fight:
"Lioness?" And things just went from weird to where's the hidden camera.
"I am a lion. Therefore, it stands to serve that my woman would be a lioness."
Kira gasped as the truth hit her. "Oh hell, don't tell me you're one of those guys Who likes dressing up in those big teddy bear costumes?"
I loved their cat and mouse game, not to mention the first time Kira met the rest of the female pride... Those who loved Kate and Curran's mating game will probably love this couple as well.
And of course, the cat eventually gets to save the day, from a bad, bad wolf. (Okay, I can live with that scenario just this once;-) )
This book is why I love and devour Eve Langlais' novels. They're always fluffy, funny and sexy - and this one is ALMOST as good as her various Hell series. I'm so glad I bought it.
4.75 ☆
i have already preordered the next installment and am very much looking forward to reading it.
MEEEEOW!
December 29, 2015
When An Alpha Purrs is the newest book release from this author…its the first of a new series, and in this installment we have the Alpha’s story. We do know that there will be atleast three books in this series. I love a great shifter romance, and even though this is a bit shorter than I was expecting…it was still enjoyable. This was such a enjoyable story, one that was short and sweet and very delectable. What I found most intriguing about this story, was seeing how Arik and Kira get along with each other…and boy was their bantering fun and sexy. They definitely have some sizzles and chemistry happening, but in the beginning we see the playfullness of their relationship…and boy Kira is fantastic, she sure knows how to bring a male down a peg or two from his arrogance. And below I wanted to share this most delicious excerpt so you can get a taste of how they react to each other…which is very similar to the rest of the story. But we also have a added elemnt, Kira has a ex wolf lover that is crazy, a stalker and has abused and tormented her in the past. She has been living on the run from him. But when she is put in danger…Arik goes into Alpha lion mode….and let no wolf stand in his way. Even though at times I felt like something was missing from this story (probably due to the short length) I found it quite a entertaining one, and had me bursting out in laughter…these two were a riot together. So this is perfect for a lazy afternoon…that is quick reading, entertaining and lively in humor and plot.
EXCERPT
“What do you mean Dominic isn’t here?” Arik didn’t quite raise his voice, and yet everyone in the barbershop heard him and noted his displeasure. Heads ducked, hands busied themselves snipping and styling, and no one dared meet his gaze.
If they were lion shifters, he would have said it was because they recognized his alpha status—say hello to the king of the concrete jungle. But these were only regular humans, people easily cowed by a man in an expensive suit with a commanding attitude.
Except for one.
“Granddad is out west.”
The woman’s reply had him spinning, and he inhaled sharply, which drew in more than just the scent of the barbershop. It drew in her tempting aroma—and stirred a hunger that had nothing to do with food.
Smells delicious. For a human.
Standing at just over five and a half feet, the woman barely reached his chin. She didn’t let her shortness deter her. Her head tilted. The chin raised, almost defiantly, as she met his stare. Brown eyes framed in dark lashes didn’t turn from his amber-hued ones.
Someone’s got spirit. But he didn’t have time to explore how far her attitude and bravery went. There were more important matters clamoring for his attention. Such as his poor, shaggy mane.
“What do you mean he’s out west? I have an appointment.” People didn’t cancel his appointments. Nor did they make him wait. The perks of being top of the heap.
“My Aunt Cecily had her baby early. He took some time off to go meet his new grandson.”
A decent excuse, but still… “But what about my hair?” That might have emerged more plaintively than he’d like. However, who could blame him? They were talking about his precious luxurious mane that required a regular trim lest the ends grow ragged, or, worse, a split end dared to make an appearance.
Vanity, one of his faults, along with arrogance and an unwillingness to budge.
“No need to worry, big guy. I’m taking over Granddad’s appointments while he’s gone.”
“You?” A girl, cut his hair? He couldn’t help but laugh, the idea too ridiculous to contemplate.
“I’m sorry. I fail to see the entertainment.”
“You can’t seriously expect me to trust my mane to a woman?” Sexism, alive and well in Arik’s world, the fault of the females in his pride who’d raised him. No coddling for Arik. They didn’t believe in letting him play with dolls or caving to others. His mother and aunts, not to mention his numerous female cousins, had taught him to be tough. They didn’t allow softness in his world, not when they groomed him as the future leader of their pride.
He was all male, all the time, and dammit, a man used a barber, not a hairdresser. Even if she was cute.
“Suit yourself. I’ve got more than enough men to take care of—”
Was that his cat growling?
“—without adding a pompous one to the list.”
“Pompous?” Even if she’d pegged him right, it didn’t stop his indignant glare.
A glare she chose to ignore. She crossed her arms over her chest, plumping her cleavage—ooh, pretty, shadowy cleft. His curious nature drew his eyes to the mysterious and beckoning vee until she cleared her throat.
“My eyes are up here, big guy.”
Caught. Good thing he was a cat. His kind had no shame, nor did they apologize. He shot her his most engaging, boyish grin. “My name is Arik. Arik Castiglione.”
She didn’t react to his smile or titles, so he elaborated, “The CEO for Castiglione Enterprises.” He stretched his lips wide enough to engage his deadly dimple.
And still failed to impress.
She raised a brow. “Is that supposed to mean something?”
Surely she jested. Within his mind, his poor lion lay down in a traumatized heap and crossed its paws over its eyes.
“We are the largest importer of meat in the world.”
Her shoulders lifted in a shrug. “I don’t check the label to see who brings me my steak. I just eat it.”
“What about our chain of restaurants? A Lion’s Pride Steakhouses.”
“Those I’ve heard of. Decent, I hear, but overpriced. I can get a bigger plate of food at LongHorn. And according to my girlfriends, the male waiters are cuter too.”
For once, Arik found himself at a loss for words. His lion on the other hand? His mane was definitely ruffled—and itching.
Arik had already gone two weeks longer than usual for this haircut because of an overseas business trip. Time to get back to his highest priority. “How long until Dominic is back?”
“A week, maybe two. I told him to take his time. Granddad doesn’t often take time off, and he’s getting up there in years.”
A few weeks? He’d look like a wildebeest if he waited that long. “That’s no good. I need a cut. Are there any male barbers available?”
“Afraid to let a girl touch your precious hair?” She smirked. “I can peek at the schedule and see if we can squeeze you in this afternoon.”
“I don’t have time to come back. I need it done now.”
Usually when he used the word now, people jumped to do his bidding. She, on the other hand, shook her head.
“Not happening, unless you’ve changed your mind and are willing to let me cut it.”
“You’re a hairdresser.”
“Exactly.”
“I want a barber.”
“Same thing.”
Said the girl without a Y chromosome. “I think I’ll wait.”
Arik turned away from her, only to freeze as she muttered, “Pussy.”
If she only knew how right she was. But, of course, she didn’t mean the feline version.
Pride made him pivot back. “You know what. On second thought, you may cut my hair.”
“How gracious of you, Your Majesty.” She sketched him a mock bow.
Not funny, even if accurate. He glared in reply.
“I see someone’s too uptight for a sense of humor.”
“I greatly enjoy comedy, when I hear it.”
“Sorry if my brand of sarcasm is too simple for you to understand, big guy. Now, if you’re done, sit down so we can get this over with and send you and your precious hair back to your office.”
A woman giving him orders? Not uncommon when a male lived surrounded by them. But actually obeying, that was new – and in this case, unavoidable.
Head held regally high, Arik took the proffered seat, putting his back to the female, but he could still watch her in the mirror and track her by scent. Coconut lotion, fabric softener, and musky woman. All woman.
My woman. Want to taste.
His lion grumbled in hunger. Odd because Arik had eaten a hearty breakfast, even wrestling his beta, Hayder, for the last two pieces of bacon.
The hairdresser swirled a fabric cape around his upper body, swathing him in protection against snipped tickly bits. So far the same as usual, except Dominic’s mere presence never had Arik’s body so aware. The light touch of her fingers at his nape as she fastened the Velcro closure caused all the hairs on his body to stiffen. And they weren’t the only thing standing at attention.
Before he could wonder at his reaction, she withdrew her hand and busied herself with her tray of instruments. Razor, scissors, brush, comb. But forget the manly black colors a barber would use. Her tools were pink and black, zebra striped.
The indignity of it. He almost said something but held his tongue, only because he could see her watching and waiting for it in the mirror. As if he’d give her the satisfaction. This cat held his own tongue—for now.
The hairdresser sifted her fingers through his long strands, lifting and studying the various layers Dominic usually cut into it. Unlike many businessmen, Arik preferred to keep his golden mane somewhat long. Funny how many of his lovers had told him it gave him a leonine appearance—if only they knew the truth.
“How much are we taking off?”
As little as possible, given he still didn’t trust her. “About a half inch or so. Just even up the ends.” That should tide him over until Dominic returned.
“Are you sure?” She frowned at his crown, as she held long strands up. “You look like you could use at least two inches off, if not more.”
How did she know? Arik usually kept his mane to a civilized length that just touched the top of his collar.
“I’m sure.”
“You know, a man your age really should have a more mature cut. The shaggy surfer style is more suited to young guys.”
He dug his fingers into the armrest and fought not to growl. “I like my hair like this.”
“Suit yourself. I was just saying you’d look better with a shorter cut.”
Shave his precious mane? Never! “Do you always argue with your clients?”
Her eyes met his in the mirror, and he wasn’t surprised to see a smile lurking at the corners of her lips. “Only when they’re wrong.”
That surprised a bark of laughter from him. Despite his irritation with the situation, and her outspoken nature, he grudgingly liked Dominic’s granddaughter. “Very well. You may cut it a little shorter than a half inch. But not much shorter. I do not want to end up scalped.”
“For a man your age and in your position, you are way too obsessed with your hair,” she muttered as she bound sections of his mane with hairclips. Not exactly his most manly look.
Arik kept a close watch for anyone with a camera or cell phone. Dare to take a pic and he’d probably go furry.
Okay, he wouldn’t go furry in public, but he sure as hell would extract retribution. CEOs of billion-dollar corporations had an image to maintain, and pink hair clips holding his hair at crazy angles didn’t exactly fit it.
“How come I’ve never met you before?” Dominic had paraded a great number of his children and grandchildren through his barber shop over the years.
Attention focused on her hands, which wielded a set of scissors, she answered. “I don’t visit often. I live out in the Midwest with my mom and dad. I was actually working at a hair salon out there until it shut down, and Granddad offered me a job here.”
“You just packed up and moved?”
“Why not?” She released a layer of hair, and the scissors kept snipping. Golden bits flittered to the floor, and Arik tried to not tense. There was just as much hair strewn as when Dominic cut it. She seemed to know her business when it came to using scissors, but for some reason, he couldn’t shake his unease.
“Women should stay close to family.” His female family members certainly did, despite his best efforts to pawn them off onto other tribes and cities. Hell, he’d even tried to bribe some of his more rascally cousins with the promise of condos on other continents. However, the lionesses in his pride were content. A sign he was a good leader, but annoying as it meant they were constantly putting their whiskered noses in his business.
And they also loved to play matchmaker.
“When are you going to give us some cubs?” Not a day went by that he didn’t hear this.
“I’ve got a friend I want you to meet.” Fun for a night, until the next day when his cousin hammered him to make some kind of commitment.
The hairdresser reacted to his statement about a woman’s place with a snort. “Get with the times, big guy. We’re no longer strapped to a kitchen or forced into arranged marriages. We even get to vote. Girls nowadays often move away from home and have jobs. Or at least this one does.”
He couldn’t help but wince as she gave a decisive snip to his mane. So far, everything looked good. Yet he could have sworn ominous music hummed at the edges of his mind, feeding a certain dread he’d never admit aloud.
Scared of this woman and her scissors? Never. And his lion reinforced this with a very masculine rawr.
Still though, she’d essentially accused him of being a chauvinist. He explained himself. “I did not mean to sound misogynistic. I merely stated that women often find comfort in having family around them.”
“I do have family here.”
“Touché.” Then he couldn’t have said what prompted him to ask, “What of your boyfriend? I’m sure he’s not pleased at your abrupt departure.”
She paused and stared at him in the mirror. “Is this your not-so-subtle way of asking if I’m single?”
“Was I being subtle? Let me rephrase then. Do you have a lover?” He’d challenge him to a duel if she did and—
Hold on a second. He wasn’t challenging anyone, especially not the human boyfriend of a hairdresser he’d just met.
Just met, and yet wanted.
The realization made him frown. Time to hit the dating circuit again if a plump and mouthy human girl was capable of making him irrational. It didn’t help that his lion urged him to rub against her and mark her with their scent—to keep other males away.
Not happening. Marking any kind of female was bound to create complications. Arik wasn’t about to settle down or commit himself. He was in his prime. Playing the field.
Flirting with a hairdresser who set his hairs on end—and brought his erotic senses alive.
The things I could do to her. Nibbles on her creamy skin… Nips at that luscious lower lip, which pulled taut as she frowned at him and said, “First off, I don’t think my love life is any of your business.” Snip. “Second. Even if I were single, I wouldn’t date you.” Snip. Snip.
“Why not?” He could have blinked in astonishment when the query emerged from his mouth. However, a curious kitty needed to know. Women just didn’t say no. It wasn’t arrogant of him to claim it, not when it was fact.
Rejection was not something he encountered. Until now.
“Are you seriously having to ask why I won’t date you?” She sounded so incredulous. “Would you like me to recite the list alphabetically?”
Actually, he did. “Let’s hear it.”
Not even a pause. “Asshat. Braggart. Cocky tied with chauvinist. Dumbass. Egotistical. Do I really need to go on?”
A chuckle rumbled forth from him—again. What was it about this woman that delighted him? She kept arguing and defying him at every turn, and yet he couldn’t help but find her amusing. She utterly intrigued him, especially as he tried to guess what she’d say next. How refreshing to come across a female that wasn’t related to him, or impressed by him, who dared to treat him as a man.
One she considered beneath her standards.
“I think your list needs tweaking.” He launched a defense of his character.
“Oh really? And just how do you see yourself? I’m sure this will be good.”
“Let me see. Attractive, bold, courageous, daring, elegant, ferocious, especially as a lover,” he admitted with a wink. “Gallant.”
With a derisive snort, she interrupted. “Ha. I highly doubt that.”
“And yet you don’t really know me. My lady friends would tell you that I am a gentleman.” When it came to opening doors and picking up the check. Other than that, there was nothing gentle about him. Just ask those who crossed him.
Kings didn’t let anyone question their authority.
“I wouldn’t know, though, about this supposed gallantry, because I’m not your lady friend.”
“You could be.” He gave her another chance. She truly did draw him in with the roundness of her figure, hugged by faded denim and topped with a baggy sweatshirt that drooped enticingly off a shoulder, baring a black strap.
Lace or cotton? A feline mind wanted to know.
But apparently he wouldn’t know today, as she, yet again, managed to resist him.
“Date you? Not likely.”
Again words emerged from him without volition. “Why not?”
“Oh please. I’ve seen enough to know you’re not my type.”
Such a liar. Apparently he wasn’t the only one aroused by their repartee. The musky scent of her arousal tickled his senses. It made him bolder. “I guarantee when I’m between your thighs and you’re clawing my back, you’ll be screaming a different tune.”
So he might have come on a tad strong with that last statement. That was still no excuse for what happened next.
“Pig.” However it wasn’t the animal insult that was her most grievous crime. It was the gigantic hunk of hair she snipped off!
An irreplaceable, thick chunk of his hair permanently removed. Accidental or intentional, it didn’t matter.
Ack! My mane. My beautiful, precious mane.
He couldn’t help a low rumbling growl. His eyes glinted in the mirror, the gold catching the light and reflecting it, along with his fury.
“You. Did. Not. Just. Do. That.” And yes, he might have growled the last bit.
“Oops? Did I do that? Sorry.” Said with no repentance at all. With a smirk and a blown kiss, she let her crime rain down over him in a golden, threaded shower.
And then, she ran.
EXCERPT
“What do you mean Dominic isn’t here?” Arik didn’t quite raise his voice, and yet everyone in the barbershop heard him and noted his displeasure. Heads ducked, hands busied themselves snipping and styling, and no one dared meet his gaze.
If they were lion shifters, he would have said it was because they recognized his alpha status—say hello to the king of the concrete jungle. But these were only regular humans, people easily cowed by a man in an expensive suit with a commanding attitude.
Except for one.
“Granddad is out west.”
The woman’s reply had him spinning, and he inhaled sharply, which drew in more than just the scent of the barbershop. It drew in her tempting aroma—and stirred a hunger that had nothing to do with food.
Smells delicious. For a human.
Standing at just over five and a half feet, the woman barely reached his chin. She didn’t let her shortness deter her. Her head tilted. The chin raised, almost defiantly, as she met his stare. Brown eyes framed in dark lashes didn’t turn from his amber-hued ones.
Someone’s got spirit. But he didn’t have time to explore how far her attitude and bravery went. There were more important matters clamoring for his attention. Such as his poor, shaggy mane.
“What do you mean he’s out west? I have an appointment.” People didn’t cancel his appointments. Nor did they make him wait. The perks of being top of the heap.
“My Aunt Cecily had her baby early. He took some time off to go meet his new grandson.”
A decent excuse, but still… “But what about my hair?” That might have emerged more plaintively than he’d like. However, who could blame him? They were talking about his precious luxurious mane that required a regular trim lest the ends grow ragged, or, worse, a split end dared to make an appearance.
Vanity, one of his faults, along with arrogance and an unwillingness to budge.
“No need to worry, big guy. I’m taking over Granddad’s appointments while he’s gone.”
“You?” A girl, cut his hair? He couldn’t help but laugh, the idea too ridiculous to contemplate.
“I’m sorry. I fail to see the entertainment.”
“You can’t seriously expect me to trust my mane to a woman?” Sexism, alive and well in Arik’s world, the fault of the females in his pride who’d raised him. No coddling for Arik. They didn’t believe in letting him play with dolls or caving to others. His mother and aunts, not to mention his numerous female cousins, had taught him to be tough. They didn’t allow softness in his world, not when they groomed him as the future leader of their pride.
He was all male, all the time, and dammit, a man used a barber, not a hairdresser. Even if she was cute.
“Suit yourself. I’ve got more than enough men to take care of—”
Was that his cat growling?
“—without adding a pompous one to the list.”
“Pompous?” Even if she’d pegged him right, it didn’t stop his indignant glare.
A glare she chose to ignore. She crossed her arms over her chest, plumping her cleavage—ooh, pretty, shadowy cleft. His curious nature drew his eyes to the mysterious and beckoning vee until she cleared her throat.
“My eyes are up here, big guy.”
Caught. Good thing he was a cat. His kind had no shame, nor did they apologize. He shot her his most engaging, boyish grin. “My name is Arik. Arik Castiglione.”
She didn’t react to his smile or titles, so he elaborated, “The CEO for Castiglione Enterprises.” He stretched his lips wide enough to engage his deadly dimple.
And still failed to impress.
She raised a brow. “Is that supposed to mean something?”
Surely she jested. Within his mind, his poor lion lay down in a traumatized heap and crossed its paws over its eyes.
“We are the largest importer of meat in the world.”
Her shoulders lifted in a shrug. “I don’t check the label to see who brings me my steak. I just eat it.”
“What about our chain of restaurants? A Lion’s Pride Steakhouses.”
“Those I’ve heard of. Decent, I hear, but overpriced. I can get a bigger plate of food at LongHorn. And according to my girlfriends, the male waiters are cuter too.”
For once, Arik found himself at a loss for words. His lion on the other hand? His mane was definitely ruffled—and itching.
Arik had already gone two weeks longer than usual for this haircut because of an overseas business trip. Time to get back to his highest priority. “How long until Dominic is back?”
“A week, maybe two. I told him to take his time. Granddad doesn’t often take time off, and he’s getting up there in years.”
A few weeks? He’d look like a wildebeest if he waited that long. “That’s no good. I need a cut. Are there any male barbers available?”
“Afraid to let a girl touch your precious hair?” She smirked. “I can peek at the schedule and see if we can squeeze you in this afternoon.”
“I don’t have time to come back. I need it done now.”
Usually when he used the word now, people jumped to do his bidding. She, on the other hand, shook her head.
“Not happening, unless you’ve changed your mind and are willing to let me cut it.”
“You’re a hairdresser.”
“Exactly.”
“I want a barber.”
“Same thing.”
Said the girl without a Y chromosome. “I think I’ll wait.”
Arik turned away from her, only to freeze as she muttered, “Pussy.”
If she only knew how right she was. But, of course, she didn’t mean the feline version.
Pride made him pivot back. “You know what. On second thought, you may cut my hair.”
“How gracious of you, Your Majesty.” She sketched him a mock bow.
Not funny, even if accurate. He glared in reply.
“I see someone’s too uptight for a sense of humor.”
“I greatly enjoy comedy, when I hear it.”
“Sorry if my brand of sarcasm is too simple for you to understand, big guy. Now, if you’re done, sit down so we can get this over with and send you and your precious hair back to your office.”
A woman giving him orders? Not uncommon when a male lived surrounded by them. But actually obeying, that was new – and in this case, unavoidable.
Head held regally high, Arik took the proffered seat, putting his back to the female, but he could still watch her in the mirror and track her by scent. Coconut lotion, fabric softener, and musky woman. All woman.
My woman. Want to taste.
His lion grumbled in hunger. Odd because Arik had eaten a hearty breakfast, even wrestling his beta, Hayder, for the last two pieces of bacon.
The hairdresser swirled a fabric cape around his upper body, swathing him in protection against snipped tickly bits. So far the same as usual, except Dominic’s mere presence never had Arik’s body so aware. The light touch of her fingers at his nape as she fastened the Velcro closure caused all the hairs on his body to stiffen. And they weren’t the only thing standing at attention.
Before he could wonder at his reaction, she withdrew her hand and busied herself with her tray of instruments. Razor, scissors, brush, comb. But forget the manly black colors a barber would use. Her tools were pink and black, zebra striped.
The indignity of it. He almost said something but held his tongue, only because he could see her watching and waiting for it in the mirror. As if he’d give her the satisfaction. This cat held his own tongue—for now.
The hairdresser sifted her fingers through his long strands, lifting and studying the various layers Dominic usually cut into it. Unlike many businessmen, Arik preferred to keep his golden mane somewhat long. Funny how many of his lovers had told him it gave him a leonine appearance—if only they knew the truth.
“How much are we taking off?”
As little as possible, given he still didn’t trust her. “About a half inch or so. Just even up the ends.” That should tide him over until Dominic returned.
“Are you sure?” She frowned at his crown, as she held long strands up. “You look like you could use at least two inches off, if not more.”
How did she know? Arik usually kept his mane to a civilized length that just touched the top of his collar.
“I’m sure.”
“You know, a man your age really should have a more mature cut. The shaggy surfer style is more suited to young guys.”
He dug his fingers into the armrest and fought not to growl. “I like my hair like this.”
“Suit yourself. I was just saying you’d look better with a shorter cut.”
Shave his precious mane? Never! “Do you always argue with your clients?”
Her eyes met his in the mirror, and he wasn’t surprised to see a smile lurking at the corners of her lips. “Only when they’re wrong.”
That surprised a bark of laughter from him. Despite his irritation with the situation, and her outspoken nature, he grudgingly liked Dominic’s granddaughter. “Very well. You may cut it a little shorter than a half inch. But not much shorter. I do not want to end up scalped.”
“For a man your age and in your position, you are way too obsessed with your hair,” she muttered as she bound sections of his mane with hairclips. Not exactly his most manly look.
Arik kept a close watch for anyone with a camera or cell phone. Dare to take a pic and he’d probably go furry.
Okay, he wouldn’t go furry in public, but he sure as hell would extract retribution. CEOs of billion-dollar corporations had an image to maintain, and pink hair clips holding his hair at crazy angles didn’t exactly fit it.
“How come I’ve never met you before?” Dominic had paraded a great number of his children and grandchildren through his barber shop over the years.
Attention focused on her hands, which wielded a set of scissors, she answered. “I don’t visit often. I live out in the Midwest with my mom and dad. I was actually working at a hair salon out there until it shut down, and Granddad offered me a job here.”
“You just packed up and moved?”
“Why not?” She released a layer of hair, and the scissors kept snipping. Golden bits flittered to the floor, and Arik tried to not tense. There was just as much hair strewn as when Dominic cut it. She seemed to know her business when it came to using scissors, but for some reason, he couldn’t shake his unease.
“Women should stay close to family.” His female family members certainly did, despite his best efforts to pawn them off onto other tribes and cities. Hell, he’d even tried to bribe some of his more rascally cousins with the promise of condos on other continents. However, the lionesses in his pride were content. A sign he was a good leader, but annoying as it meant they were constantly putting their whiskered noses in his business.
And they also loved to play matchmaker.
“When are you going to give us some cubs?” Not a day went by that he didn’t hear this.
“I’ve got a friend I want you to meet.” Fun for a night, until the next day when his cousin hammered him to make some kind of commitment.
The hairdresser reacted to his statement about a woman’s place with a snort. “Get with the times, big guy. We’re no longer strapped to a kitchen or forced into arranged marriages. We even get to vote. Girls nowadays often move away from home and have jobs. Or at least this one does.”
He couldn’t help but wince as she gave a decisive snip to his mane. So far, everything looked good. Yet he could have sworn ominous music hummed at the edges of his mind, feeding a certain dread he’d never admit aloud.
Scared of this woman and her scissors? Never. And his lion reinforced this with a very masculine rawr.
Still though, she’d essentially accused him of being a chauvinist. He explained himself. “I did not mean to sound misogynistic. I merely stated that women often find comfort in having family around them.”
“I do have family here.”
“Touché.” Then he couldn’t have said what prompted him to ask, “What of your boyfriend? I’m sure he’s not pleased at your abrupt departure.”
She paused and stared at him in the mirror. “Is this your not-so-subtle way of asking if I’m single?”
“Was I being subtle? Let me rephrase then. Do you have a lover?” He’d challenge him to a duel if she did and—
Hold on a second. He wasn’t challenging anyone, especially not the human boyfriend of a hairdresser he’d just met.
Just met, and yet wanted.
The realization made him frown. Time to hit the dating circuit again if a plump and mouthy human girl was capable of making him irrational. It didn’t help that his lion urged him to rub against her and mark her with their scent—to keep other males away.
Not happening. Marking any kind of female was bound to create complications. Arik wasn’t about to settle down or commit himself. He was in his prime. Playing the field.
Flirting with a hairdresser who set his hairs on end—and brought his erotic senses alive.
The things I could do to her. Nibbles on her creamy skin… Nips at that luscious lower lip, which pulled taut as she frowned at him and said, “First off, I don’t think my love life is any of your business.” Snip. “Second. Even if I were single, I wouldn’t date you.” Snip. Snip.
“Why not?” He could have blinked in astonishment when the query emerged from his mouth. However, a curious kitty needed to know. Women just didn’t say no. It wasn’t arrogant of him to claim it, not when it was fact.
Rejection was not something he encountered. Until now.
“Are you seriously having to ask why I won’t date you?” She sounded so incredulous. “Would you like me to recite the list alphabetically?”
Actually, he did. “Let’s hear it.”
Not even a pause. “Asshat. Braggart. Cocky tied with chauvinist. Dumbass. Egotistical. Do I really need to go on?”
A chuckle rumbled forth from him—again. What was it about this woman that delighted him? She kept arguing and defying him at every turn, and yet he couldn’t help but find her amusing. She utterly intrigued him, especially as he tried to guess what she’d say next. How refreshing to come across a female that wasn’t related to him, or impressed by him, who dared to treat him as a man.
One she considered beneath her standards.
“I think your list needs tweaking.” He launched a defense of his character.
“Oh really? And just how do you see yourself? I’m sure this will be good.”
“Let me see. Attractive, bold, courageous, daring, elegant, ferocious, especially as a lover,” he admitted with a wink. “Gallant.”
With a derisive snort, she interrupted. “Ha. I highly doubt that.”
“And yet you don’t really know me. My lady friends would tell you that I am a gentleman.” When it came to opening doors and picking up the check. Other than that, there was nothing gentle about him. Just ask those who crossed him.
Kings didn’t let anyone question their authority.
“I wouldn’t know, though, about this supposed gallantry, because I’m not your lady friend.”
“You could be.” He gave her another chance. She truly did draw him in with the roundness of her figure, hugged by faded denim and topped with a baggy sweatshirt that drooped enticingly off a shoulder, baring a black strap.
Lace or cotton? A feline mind wanted to know.
But apparently he wouldn’t know today, as she, yet again, managed to resist him.
“Date you? Not likely.”
Again words emerged from him without volition. “Why not?”
“Oh please. I’ve seen enough to know you’re not my type.”
Such a liar. Apparently he wasn’t the only one aroused by their repartee. The musky scent of her arousal tickled his senses. It made him bolder. “I guarantee when I’m between your thighs and you’re clawing my back, you’ll be screaming a different tune.”
So he might have come on a tad strong with that last statement. That was still no excuse for what happened next.
“Pig.” However it wasn’t the animal insult that was her most grievous crime. It was the gigantic hunk of hair she snipped off!
An irreplaceable, thick chunk of his hair permanently removed. Accidental or intentional, it didn’t matter.
Ack! My mane. My beautiful, precious mane.
He couldn’t help a low rumbling growl. His eyes glinted in the mirror, the gold catching the light and reflecting it, along with his fury.
“You. Did. Not. Just. Do. That.” And yes, he might have growled the last bit.
“Oops? Did I do that? Sorry.” Said with no repentance at all. With a smirk and a blown kiss, she let her crime rain down over him in a golden, threaded shower.
And then, she ran.
September 16, 2021
Arik and Kira
Arik and Kira,
I really liked reading this book and am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
The humour was Great and I found myself laughing out quite a few times. The story was well written and the characters well rounded. I most definitely look forward to Hayder's story!
Arik and Kira,
I really liked reading this book and am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
The humour was Great and I found myself laughing out quite a few times. The story was well written and the characters well rounded. I most definitely look forward to Hayder's story!
August 5, 2015
BASICS
Love triangle?
Cheating?
HEA?
Any Descriptive Sex w/OW/OM/Ex?
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? Maybe, but not for now.
Rating: +3 stars
Review
When an Alpha Purrs is a quick read that just grabs your attention. The first half of the book was really good, but the second half kinda draged out a bit. Still a good read with one bossy H and sassy h that fit great together. :)
Love triangle?
Cheating?
HEA?
Any Descriptive Sex w/OW/OM/Ex?
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? Maybe, but not for now.
Rating: +3 stars
Review
When an Alpha Purrs is a quick read that just grabs your attention. The first half of the book was really good, but the second half kinda draged out a bit. Still a good read with one bossy H and sassy h that fit great together. :)
September 28, 2018
Billionaire CEO and Alpha Arik is the king of his castle. He prides himself with all things that are him especially his mane. When he shows up to get his regular haircut he finds out his regular barber is out of town and takes a chance on his granddaughter. Arik calls it like he sees it and he finds Kira stunning and goes about telling her in a way that has Kira rolling her eyes at his arrogancy. Arik is not to be shrugged off and continues his wooing the way he always does but instead of ending up with a date she mangles his hair.
Arik decides she has earned punishment, in fact she can serve as his mate for ever after. Of course he did not expect Kira to take the news quietly and with her crazy ex chasing after her, Arik decides to protect her as only an Alpha can.
Very fun read. Arik is an idiot but you love him. He has such a big ego but Kira keeps him in line. Kira is a delight, the moment in the barbershop is hilarious.
Arik decides she has earned punishment, in fact she can serve as his mate for ever after. Of course he did not expect Kira to take the news quietly and with her crazy ex chasing after her, Arik decides to protect her as only an Alpha can.
Very fun read. Arik is an idiot but you love him. He has such a big ego but Kira keeps him in line. Kira is a delight, the moment in the barbershop is hilarious.
September 3, 2019
I've long been a fan of this authors sexy sci fi stories featuring purple aliens or cyborgs and thought it was high time I tried some of her shifter stories. This particular book was actually free to download and with its pretty cover and absurd beginning definitely I was intrigued to read it.
Essentially we have Arik, a conceited Lion going for a haircut and meeting Kira, a human woman who quite literally hacks off some of his crowning glory ! Yes Arik is vain enough to feel like roaring but Kira sure does know when to make a hasty exit. Trouble is Arik quickly realises that Kira is one woman he doesn't want afraid of him so how does he go about getting into her heart and everything south of it ?
This was albeit a short book but nevertheless it was fun and steamy with a plot involving not just Arik convincing Kira to stop running away but an ex boyfriend who is clearly out for blood ! I thoroughly enjoyed the dialogue and snark but felt it could have been expanded slightly as although we do get scenes involving supporting characters most of this story is just about the couple and Ariks insistence that Kira is his . Still it was an entertaining read and I'm sure lovers of paranormal romance will enjoy it.
Essentially we have Arik, a conceited Lion going for a haircut and meeting Kira, a human woman who quite literally hacks off some of his crowning glory ! Yes Arik is vain enough to feel like roaring but Kira sure does know when to make a hasty exit. Trouble is Arik quickly realises that Kira is one woman he doesn't want afraid of him so how does he go about getting into her heart and everything south of it ?
This was albeit a short book but nevertheless it was fun and steamy with a plot involving not just Arik convincing Kira to stop running away but an ex boyfriend who is clearly out for blood ! I thoroughly enjoyed the dialogue and snark but felt it could have been expanded slightly as although we do get scenes involving supporting characters most of this story is just about the couple and Ariks insistence that Kira is his . Still it was an entertaining read and I'm sure lovers of paranormal romance will enjoy it.
June 28, 2015
This one had me laughing so much while reading. I loved how sarcastic Kira was, how she kept flipping Arik shit and he managed to turn things around her. I liked Arik pursued Kira and took the threat to her very seriously. Kira's reaction to the people in Arik's life was funny. You could tell that she would be able to stand up to them once the relationship settled.
I thought it was funny how Arik kept trying to introduce her to his lion. When Arik's lion finally did show up I had to laugh, Kira was more concerned with his nudity then, hey a big lion.
I was glad to see how this one ended, glad that Kira accepted Arik his pride.
I thought it was funny how Arik kept trying to introduce her to his lion. When Arik's lion finally did show up I had to laugh, Kira was more concerned with his nudity then, hey a big lion.
I was glad to see how this one ended, glad that Kira accepted Arik his pride.
September 8, 2019
Entertaining
I forget how fun Eve Langlais's books are until I read another one. They are always funny and witty with no shortage of alpha males and sassy women. This was no exception.
I forget how fun Eve Langlais's books are until I read another one. They are always funny and witty with no shortage of alpha males and sassy women. This was no exception.
August 1, 2015
[3.5 stars]
Arik, billionaire CEO and leader of the largest East Coast pride, meets Kira, human hairdresser, when his gigantic ego comes into her grandfather’s shop for a haircut. Needless to say, he doesn’t want a woman messing with the ‘do. Kira takes him down a notch (along with a chunk of his mane). Then she tries to run from her attraction. Big mistake when you’re dealing with a predator. But she has a psycho ex and...you know what? Does it matter? Nah, cause romance happens.
- Shifter romances are my crack : Seriously. I can’t stay away from them. Add in a BBW heroine and it’s like catnip. I just wanna roll around on the floor with them and purr. Ms. Langlais has a talent for giving me exactly what I want in a shifter romance and this one is no different. It’s cute, funny and the only angst is from a psycho ex and some hesitation on Kira’s part regarding the whole fated mate business, which is natural.
- Adrik is vain and adorable : Arik is (literally) King of the Concrete Jungle. He rules his city and the packs of shifters. He’s gorgeous and he knows it. And I couldn’t help but giggle at some of the things he puts up with in his pursuit of Kira. And he does pursue, which is also always welcome. He’s all protective and grr at the right moments.
- Kira is perfect for his egotistical kitty : I always enjoy a heroine who can toe to toe with the hero. Kira’s scared for good reasons considering her batshit crazy ex, but she can't help her attraction to Arik. All in all, I thought she was pretty fantastic...til she just loses her mind.
- But she does takes a minor detour into TSTL territory : Now, I’m all for the independent woman. But when your psycho ex wants to stalk and/or rape and kill you, not necessarily in that order? Well, let’s just say I wouldn’t go running into danger just because I refuse to let someone else protect me. I will give points for Kira for acknowledging that she went kinda stupid and it’s not a huge part of the story.
I liked it. Ms. Langlais is my go-to author for light, breezy reads. I’d recommend for fans of shifter romances featuring BBW heroines.
Arik, billionaire CEO and leader of the largest East Coast pride, meets Kira, human hairdresser, when his gigantic ego comes into her grandfather’s shop for a haircut. Needless to say, he doesn’t want a woman messing with the ‘do. Kira takes him down a notch (along with a chunk of his mane). Then she tries to run from her attraction. Big mistake when you’re dealing with a predator. But she has a psycho ex and...you know what? Does it matter? Nah, cause romance happens.
- Shifter romances are my crack : Seriously. I can’t stay away from them. Add in a BBW heroine and it’s like catnip. I just wanna roll around on the floor with them and purr. Ms. Langlais has a talent for giving me exactly what I want in a shifter romance and this one is no different. It’s cute, funny and the only angst is from a psycho ex and some hesitation on Kira’s part regarding the whole fated mate business, which is natural.
- Adrik is vain and adorable : Arik is (literally) King of the Concrete Jungle. He rules his city and the packs of shifters. He’s gorgeous and he knows it. And I couldn’t help but giggle at some of the things he puts up with in his pursuit of Kira. And he does pursue, which is also always welcome. He’s all protective and grr at the right moments.
- Kira is perfect for his egotistical kitty : I always enjoy a heroine who can toe to toe with the hero. Kira’s scared for good reasons considering her batshit crazy ex, but she can't help her attraction to Arik. All in all, I thought she was pretty fantastic...til she just loses her mind.
- But she does takes a minor detour into TSTL territory : Now, I’m all for the independent woman. But when your psycho ex wants to stalk and/or rape and kill you, not necessarily in that order? Well, let’s just say I wouldn’t go running into danger just because I refuse to let someone else protect me. I will give points for Kira for acknowledging that she went kinda stupid and it’s not a huge part of the story.
I liked it. Ms. Langlais is my go-to author for light, breezy reads. I’d recommend for fans of shifter romances featuring BBW heroines.
October 31, 2019
When an Alpha Purrs by Eve Langlais
Book 1 of A Lion’s Pride series. Contemporary paranormal romance. Filled with plenty of humor, an interfering family, and a stalking previous boyfriend that makes Arik, the hero, quite protective.
Yes, Arik is quite arrogant and prideful. And a bit of a jerk. At times. Just like a Leo. Wouldn’t the head of the clan have to be arrogant? The women of his family, and now Kira will keep him in check.
I love the humor and tongue-in-cheek sarcasm. There are several laugh out loud moments.
Don’t take this one too seriously.
I listened to the audio version of this book. It was fantastic. The narrator, William G. Humphrey, has a deep and gruff voice reminiscent of James Earl Jones doing the Lion King. Perfect for the alpha of the pride in the story. The audio version had 45 minutes of the 2nd book at the end of the main story. And of course an epilogue that entices you to pick up the next story immediately. That’s one of the author’s signatures.
Engaging and fun.
Book 1 of A Lion’s Pride series. Contemporary paranormal romance. Filled with plenty of humor, an interfering family, and a stalking previous boyfriend that makes Arik, the hero, quite protective.
Yes, Arik is quite arrogant and prideful. And a bit of a jerk. At times. Just like a Leo. Wouldn’t the head of the clan have to be arrogant? The women of his family, and now Kira will keep him in check.
I love the humor and tongue-in-cheek sarcasm. There are several laugh out loud moments.
Don’t take this one too seriously.
I listened to the audio version of this book. It was fantastic. The narrator, William G. Humphrey, has a deep and gruff voice reminiscent of James Earl Jones doing the Lion King. Perfect for the alpha of the pride in the story. The audio version had 45 minutes of the 2nd book at the end of the main story. And of course an epilogue that entices you to pick up the next story immediately. That’s one of the author’s signatures.
Engaging and fun.
June 27, 2015
When an Alpha Purrs is a humorous hit!!! I started laughing on the first page and laughed out loud throughout the entire book. Alpha Purrs contains one snarky and independent heroine and an arrogant but very lovable hero. The banter between the two caught my attention and kept my attention from the very beginning of the book.
Alpha Purrs is a light and entertaining romantic paranormal comedy. The chemistry between Kira and Arik is immediate. I personally love a good romance. I highly recommend Alpha Purrs for anyone in the mood for a short romantic comedy. 5 Lovingly Humorous Stars
Alpha Purrs is a light and entertaining romantic paranormal comedy. The chemistry between Kira and Arik is immediate. I personally love a good romance. I highly recommend Alpha Purrs for anyone in the mood for a short romantic comedy. 5 Lovingly Humorous Stars
August 19, 2015
What can I say I was just in the mood for some shape shifting, true mates, insta lust smut and Eve Langlais always delivers that and more with a giggle and some smoking hotness.
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July 22, 2015
A pretty "blah" read - Felt like numerous other shifter books I've read
The blurb had me skeptical because I have tired of the whole "Billionaire/CEO shifter that no woman can resist, meets a sassy human that doesn’t bow at his feet, and he soon starts referring to her as MINE" But then again, this is Langlais' writing, so I decided to give it a try because I was in the mood for a shifter read with some humor, and that is her specialty. So here is my breakdown:
The pros:
* This book did have me smiling quite a bit
* Lots of steamy sexual chemistry going on
The cons:
* I feel this book is quite overpriced at $3.99 - it was only 188 pages (.99-1.99 would have been practical)
* The plot was SLOW...when I read a shifter romance I want some shifting, and ummm some romance? At 75% in not a single shift had occurred, and the romance was nonexistent - sure they had sex a couple of times but that was it, they basically knew nothing of each other. Also, the alpha, didn't feel like an true alpha. He came across as nothing more than a vain pansy.
* it had a pretty cliché feel throughout - nothing about the characters or storyline felt original - I just had a deja vu feeling throughout, felt like numerous other shifter reads I've come across.
* The character depth was vague and they felt fictitious. Maybe it was the whole insta-love thing that caused this? I don’t know, I just never connected to any of the characters in this read
* Speaking of characters, while I didn’t care for the heroine, I really couldn’t stand the hero Arik - his arrogance was appalling - I did like the fact that he stood up for the heroine and wanted to protect her, but other than that, every single personality trait he had was repulsive. I found nothing charming about him. I do believe he was one of the most superficial book heroes I've read about to date. Had he been killed off in this book, I probably would have smiled. :(
* The drama in this book, where the heroine is trying to stay away from her stalker, creepy ex just did not feel realistic and never had me eager to see how things played out.
Overall, this book wasn’t anything great. It had a "blah" feel throughout. Like I said before, it felt like many other shifter books I've read in the past. Perhaps the main reason I couldn’t get into this one because I didn’t care anything for the characters? Regardless, I am still a fan of Eve Langlais. I'm not sure if I will continue this particular series, but I will definitely check out her future work.
The blurb had me skeptical because I have tired of the whole "Billionaire/CEO shifter that no woman can resist, meets a sassy human that doesn’t bow at his feet, and he soon starts referring to her as MINE" But then again, this is Langlais' writing, so I decided to give it a try because I was in the mood for a shifter read with some humor, and that is her specialty. So here is my breakdown:
The pros:
* This book did have me smiling quite a bit
* Lots of steamy sexual chemistry going on
The cons:
* I feel this book is quite overpriced at $3.99 - it was only 188 pages (.99-1.99 would have been practical)
* The plot was SLOW...when I read a shifter romance I want some shifting, and ummm some romance? At 75% in not a single shift had occurred, and the romance was nonexistent - sure they had sex a couple of times but that was it, they basically knew nothing of each other. Also, the alpha, didn't feel like an true alpha. He came across as nothing more than a vain pansy.
* it had a pretty cliché feel throughout - nothing about the characters or storyline felt original - I just had a deja vu feeling throughout, felt like numerous other shifter reads I've come across.
* The character depth was vague and they felt fictitious. Maybe it was the whole insta-love thing that caused this? I don’t know, I just never connected to any of the characters in this read
* Speaking of characters, while I didn’t care for the heroine, I really couldn’t stand the hero Arik - his arrogance was appalling - I did like the fact that he stood up for the heroine and wanted to protect her, but other than that, every single personality trait he had was repulsive. I found nothing charming about him. I do believe he was one of the most superficial book heroes I've read about to date. Had he been killed off in this book, I probably would have smiled. :(
* The drama in this book, where the heroine is trying to stay away from her stalker, creepy ex just did not feel realistic and never had me eager to see how things played out.
Overall, this book wasn’t anything great. It had a "blah" feel throughout. Like I said before, it felt like many other shifter books I've read in the past. Perhaps the main reason I couldn’t get into this one because I didn’t care anything for the characters? Regardless, I am still a fan of Eve Langlais. I'm not sure if I will continue this particular series, but I will definitely check out her future work.
June 2, 2015
Every book I have read by Eve Langlais is like a Cracker Jack Box - filled with yummy goodness and a fun surprise inside. That is how I would describe When an Alpha Purrs. I've read a few PNRs with cats but I certainly have to say, this series is shaping up to be my favorite.
BOOM! This story hit the ground running and never stopped. Arik = fun, sexy and vain. He is certainly the alpha of his pride and he has the ego to prove it. The women in his pride are no help feeding his ego. Ant that mane, what a vanity he has over it. Kira has a chip on her shoulder, too, all sass and brass. The two of them together we initially like oil and vinegar. Their verbal sparring was hilarious. You just knew his mouth would eventually get him into trouble. And with a SNIP! Kira takes him down a peg. Could not stop laughing over it! Of course she has to run, there's a chase, he catches her. Things certainly get interesting from there. PURRR!
This was a fantastic book. Great characters plus lots of kitty puns along the way had me laughing so hard. However, it isn't all S&G, there is a dastardly plot afoot that has Kira running. No one is going to mess with the king’s mouse! Lots of little twists along the way keep this book fast-paced and entertaining. And the characters...OMG! I'm in love with all the secondary characters! Oh my, the beta and omega, really I don't know which one I love more. The only thing that disappointed me was the ending...as in why did this book have to end. Rawr!
What a great start to her new series. Fans new and old of Ms.Langlais are going to love this book. I'm itching for the next book already. Bring on the beta!
I received this book from the JeepDiva for the express purposes of an honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine and in no way was I compensated.
Stars - 5, Flames - 3
BOOM! This story hit the ground running and never stopped. Arik = fun, sexy and vain. He is certainly the alpha of his pride and he has the ego to prove it. The women in his pride are no help feeding his ego. Ant that mane, what a vanity he has over it. Kira has a chip on her shoulder, too, all sass and brass. The two of them together we initially like oil and vinegar. Their verbal sparring was hilarious. You just knew his mouth would eventually get him into trouble. And with a SNIP! Kira takes him down a peg. Could not stop laughing over it! Of course she has to run, there's a chase, he catches her. Things certainly get interesting from there. PURRR!
This was a fantastic book. Great characters plus lots of kitty puns along the way had me laughing so hard. However, it isn't all S&G, there is a dastardly plot afoot that has Kira running. No one is going to mess with the king’s mouse! Lots of little twists along the way keep this book fast-paced and entertaining. And the characters...OMG! I'm in love with all the secondary characters! Oh my, the beta and omega, really I don't know which one I love more. The only thing that disappointed me was the ending...as in why did this book have to end. Rawr!
What a great start to her new series. Fans new and old of Ms.Langlais are going to love this book. I'm itching for the next book already. Bring on the beta!
I received this book from the JeepDiva for the express purposes of an honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine and in no way was I compensated.
Stars - 5, Flames - 3
October 16, 2021
I was wondering why I haven't read an Eve Langlais book in so long, and then I was reminded of this book while browsing Overdrive. I'm c/p my 2015 Amazon review from before I was on Goodreads:
----*internal screaming begins*----
I've enjoyed most of Eve's other books but this was so disappointing. The female character Kira was fairly likable, but the male lead Arik was a controlling, obsessive, manipulative, egotistical jerk. The only difference between him and the villain was that he wasn't violent.
First he insults Kira & says she's incapable of cutting his precious hair right cause she's a woman.
Then he forces her to go on a date with him.
Next he literally pees on the wall outside her apartment to mark his territory (I wish I was joking).
After that he tells her he's giving her a ride somewhere, but instead takes her to his home where he manhandles her into his apartment and locks her in by setting his security system to not let her use the elevator.
Then he tells her he's unlocking the elevator and she's free to go, until he has to leave then he locks it again without telling her.
That's just up to chapter 20 where I couldn't take it anymore and stopped reading. The number of times this chauvinistic pig complements HIMSELF is astounding. I don't know how anyone finds this story romantic, it was honestly painful to read. I will seriously rethink reading anymore books by this author.
----*internal screaming ends*----
And that's why I haven't read a Eve Langlais book in years. I'm sure she's had some good ones since then but I guess I can hold a grudge, even when I blocked this from my memory lol.
----*internal screaming begins*----
I've enjoyed most of Eve's other books but this was so disappointing. The female character Kira was fairly likable, but the male lead Arik was a controlling, obsessive, manipulative, egotistical jerk. The only difference between him and the villain was that he wasn't violent.
First he insults Kira & says she's incapable of cutting his precious hair right cause she's a woman.
Then he forces her to go on a date with him.
Next he literally pees on the wall outside her apartment to mark his territory (I wish I was joking).
After that he tells her he's giving her a ride somewhere, but instead takes her to his home where he manhandles her into his apartment and locks her in by setting his security system to not let her use the elevator.
Then he tells her he's unlocking the elevator and she's free to go, until he has to leave then he locks it again without telling her.
That's just up to chapter 20 where I couldn't take it anymore and stopped reading. The number of times this chauvinistic pig complements HIMSELF is astounding. I don't know how anyone finds this story romantic, it was honestly painful to read. I will seriously rethink reading anymore books by this author.
----*internal screaming ends*----
And that's why I haven't read a Eve Langlais book in years. I'm sure she's had some good ones since then but I guess I can hold a grudge, even when I blocked this from my memory lol.
August 7, 2015
An alpha lion shifter and lord of the largest pride on the East Coast gets anything he wants until he encounters the sassy, stubborn human female who takes a chunk out of his hair. Her first mistake was running from him and he isn't about to let her make that mistake again.
Arik knows his duty is toward strengthening his pride by mating with another cat shifter, but all that goes out the window when a certain human woman enters his life and turns it upside down. She challenges him which peeks his interest, but then his protective instincts kick in when her stalker ex threatens her. He will find a way to make it work even if he has to lock her in his loft until she sees reason.
This story starts off with a humorous opening scene and retains that flirty feel throughout the story. The hero is arrogant, confident, and alpha through and through which strikes the heroine as sexy even while she knows it should annoy her. The heroine is stubborn and gets snarky when she feels cornered so she's a good match for the pushy lion king and keeps him on his toes. The back and forth hot attraction and playful snark make it fun. The story isn't strongly developed and clips along pretty fast, but it is still a light entertaining read and a good intro to a new series.
All in all, I had a good time with this fun piece and would definitely recommend it to lovers of paranormal romantic comedy.
My thanks for a chance to read this one in exchange for an honest review.
Arik knows his duty is toward strengthening his pride by mating with another cat shifter, but all that goes out the window when a certain human woman enters his life and turns it upside down. She challenges him which peeks his interest, but then his protective instincts kick in when her stalker ex threatens her. He will find a way to make it work even if he has to lock her in his loft until she sees reason.
This story starts off with a humorous opening scene and retains that flirty feel throughout the story. The hero is arrogant, confident, and alpha through and through which strikes the heroine as sexy even while she knows it should annoy her. The heroine is stubborn and gets snarky when she feels cornered so she's a good match for the pushy lion king and keeps him on his toes. The back and forth hot attraction and playful snark make it fun. The story isn't strongly developed and clips along pretty fast, but it is still a light entertaining read and a good intro to a new series.
All in all, I had a good time with this fun piece and would definitely recommend it to lovers of paranormal romantic comedy.
My thanks for a chance to read this one in exchange for an honest review.
October 26, 2020
DNF. Don’t know what percent but it was almost immediately after starting it. Had to put it down. Here are the main problems encountered:
1. The male MC is a chauvinist and he blames this on how the females in his pride were tough on him. But that doesn’t add up. Lionesses are notoriously strong and tough and contribute a lot to the welfare of the pride (they are the hunters). And so why would he end up a chauvinist?
2. She’s wearing a V-neck tee in the beginning. Just a page or two later she’s described as wearing a baggy sweatshirt. I don’t have time for those inconsistencies.
3. The male MC is dumb and his internal monologue is rife with lion references that are too over the top.
1. The male MC is a chauvinist and he blames this on how the females in his pride were tough on him. But that doesn’t add up. Lionesses are notoriously strong and tough and contribute a lot to the welfare of the pride (they are the hunters). And so why would he end up a chauvinist?
2. She’s wearing a V-neck tee in the beginning. Just a page or two later she’s described as wearing a baggy sweatshirt. I don’t have time for those inconsistencies.
3. The male MC is dumb and his internal monologue is rife with lion references that are too over the top.
March 31, 2017
This is one I downloaded free ages ago. I’m glad I didn’t pay for it. It was way too fluffy for me. The heroine is a hairdresser who gets angry at the hero and hacks off a hunk of his hair. In the first chapter. Ten minutes after meeting him. He was being arrogant and a jerk, true, but the sheer unprofessional-ism of the act just flat killed the book for me. DNF
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