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Given
Avery thought she was escaping. She thought the frightening shifter who shattered her chains was her savior. Avery didn't know she was just exchanging one cage for another.
Nathaniel
Her scent overwhelmed me. For a split second I forgot about my mission. The girl opened her crystal blue eyes and a shock blew through my system. My instincts roared to life.
Mine.
Avery
A slow pulse of arousal throbbed between my legs. It had to be the adrenaline. This shifter carried a gun, had killed his way through my clan, was probably going to kill me. It was crazy. I had no idea why I was reacting this way.
All I knew was, I wanted him.
Given is the 1st of 3 parts in the Dawnclaw Alphas Dark Romance serial, featuring Alpha Males, Werebears, Werepanthers, and lots of explicit romance. Some parts may end in cliffhangers.
Nathaniel
Her scent overwhelmed me. For a split second I forgot about my mission. The girl opened her crystal blue eyes and a shock blew through my system. My instincts roared to life.
Mine.
Avery
A slow pulse of arousal throbbed between my legs. It had to be the adrenaline. This shifter carried a gun, had killed his way through my clan, was probably going to kill me. It was crazy. I had no idea why I was reacting this way.
All I knew was, I wanted him.
Given is the 1st of 3 parts in the Dawnclaw Alphas Dark Romance serial, featuring Alpha Males, Werebears, Werepanthers, and lots of explicit romance. Some parts may end in cliffhangers.
48 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 26, 2015
25 people are currently reading
210 people want to read
About the author
Athena Wright
51 books585 followersAthena Wright is a USA Today Bestselling author of New Adult Romance. She loves to write about cocky rock stars and the women who tame their wild hearts. Hobbies include cooking, eating, and living out her rock star dreams at karaoke bars. Athena is perpetually on the hunt for her next caffeine fix.
Want a free taste of Athena's writing? You can receive an exclusive Newsletter-Only ebook, Hard Rock Poet, for free. Just subscribe and tell Athena where to send it. You'll also be notified of new book releases. https://athenawright.com/poet-sign-up
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Want a free taste of Athena's writing? You can receive an exclusive Newsletter-Only ebook, Hard Rock Poet, for free. Just subscribe and tell Athena where to send it. You'll also be notified of new book releases. https://athenawright.com/poet-sign-up
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
November 23, 2015
FANTASTIC TRIO: Given, Proven, Chosen
Please do yourself a big favor and read the introduction to this story. It will help ground you for the fast action to occur.
The adventure begins with our heroine, Avery, manacled and chained to the walls. Her door is locked anyway.
She hears loud fighting, but that is nothing new in this wolf clan, Bloodmoon. Her father is the leader, a right he acquired by being the most vicious. Most likely another clan has come for revenge. Too bad they will die like all the others. She hates her father. He's the one who has imprisoned her and beaten her, or had his henchman do the beating.
She heard bodies hitting the floor, more running feet, more fighting, and sill more bodies hitting the floor. Suddenly, all was quiet. someone tried her locked door knob. Then before she can take another breath, the door was kicked in, spraying wood fragments. In the center of the door stood a tall muscular man dripping blood. He wore a black tight-fitting all in one jumper. His face was left open. He asked her twice for the whereabouts of the alpha of the Bloodmoon clan. Only after he points the gun at her does she find her voice telling him that she didn't know, but would tell him as she obviously has no love for him either.
His expression was passive cold, unfeeling, his eyes empty. She felt that she was in BIG trouble. Strangely, Avery appeared to be attracted to him, sexually. That could not be. He was likely to kill her at any moment.
He sniffed me and then continued to sniff her, undoubtedly smelling her arousal. She wondered what he thought of her strange behavior. He knew that she was aroused and acting really strangely. He pulled her body flush with his. She most certainly did not mind. Avery wanted to tear off their clothes!
He pushed her away and demanded to know why she was locked and chained in this room. Avery was in a quandary: should she tell the truth, including that the Alpha he sought was her father, or say as little as possible. So she settled on a half-truth. He informed her that she was coming with him. One problem: she was still manacled and chained. He took care of that problem handily. She was now free from my father, but traded that for being prisoner to this cat-shifter.
The second chapter is from Nathaniel's point of view. Nathaniel mission was to kill the alpha of the Bloodmoon werewolves. He fought his way, floor after floor, but no alpha. He did not want to return without his mission accomplished. On the top floor, at the end was a locked door. He kicked it in. Suddenly he was overwhelmed by a delicious honeyed perfumed scent that he could not seem to resist. She lifted her head and looked into his eyes, his animal cried: MINE. No time for this now, "where is the leader of the the Blood moon clan?" He had to repeat the question and shake his gun at her to get her to answer. She seemed to be as affected as he was. What a mess! She was a girl in her late teens or early twenties. and frightened, of him, or her keepers? Eventually she went limp and Nathaniel pulled her flush to his body. Mmmmm Nataniel's animal wanted to claim her right then! Her arousal, her fragrance! Could she sense his? No, of course not. She was human!
Something was off, wait..she was manacled and chained to the wall! Her explanation was rather juvenile, he thought "grounded??". Even though the mission to kill the Bloodmoon leader failed, she may be of value. Nathaniel knocked her out and took her with him.
I've given you a taste of this wonderful adventure. I was totally unable to stop at Given, but had to continue immediately to Proven and then Chosen. You are in for a terrific, story, of revenge, loss, and found happiness and a family for Avery with Nathaniel. I hope you enjoy this TRIO as much as I did!
Please do yourself a big favor and read the introduction to this story. It will help ground you for the fast action to occur.
The adventure begins with our heroine, Avery, manacled and chained to the walls. Her door is locked anyway.
She hears loud fighting, but that is nothing new in this wolf clan, Bloodmoon. Her father is the leader, a right he acquired by being the most vicious. Most likely another clan has come for revenge. Too bad they will die like all the others. She hates her father. He's the one who has imprisoned her and beaten her, or had his henchman do the beating.
She heard bodies hitting the floor, more running feet, more fighting, and sill more bodies hitting the floor. Suddenly, all was quiet. someone tried her locked door knob. Then before she can take another breath, the door was kicked in, spraying wood fragments. In the center of the door stood a tall muscular man dripping blood. He wore a black tight-fitting all in one jumper. His face was left open. He asked her twice for the whereabouts of the alpha of the Bloodmoon clan. Only after he points the gun at her does she find her voice telling him that she didn't know, but would tell him as she obviously has no love for him either.
His expression was passive cold, unfeeling, his eyes empty. She felt that she was in BIG trouble. Strangely, Avery appeared to be attracted to him, sexually. That could not be. He was likely to kill her at any moment.
He sniffed me and then continued to sniff her, undoubtedly smelling her arousal. She wondered what he thought of her strange behavior. He knew that she was aroused and acting really strangely. He pulled her body flush with his. She most certainly did not mind. Avery wanted to tear off their clothes!
He pushed her away and demanded to know why she was locked and chained in this room. Avery was in a quandary: should she tell the truth, including that the Alpha he sought was her father, or say as little as possible. So she settled on a half-truth. He informed her that she was coming with him. One problem: she was still manacled and chained. He took care of that problem handily. She was now free from my father, but traded that for being prisoner to this cat-shifter.
The second chapter is from Nathaniel's point of view. Nathaniel mission was to kill the alpha of the Bloodmoon werewolves. He fought his way, floor after floor, but no alpha. He did not want to return without his mission accomplished. On the top floor, at the end was a locked door. He kicked it in. Suddenly he was overwhelmed by a delicious honeyed perfumed scent that he could not seem to resist. She lifted her head and looked into his eyes, his animal cried: MINE. No time for this now, "where is the leader of the the Blood moon clan?" He had to repeat the question and shake his gun at her to get her to answer. She seemed to be as affected as he was. What a mess! She was a girl in her late teens or early twenties. and frightened, of him, or her keepers? Eventually she went limp and Nathaniel pulled her flush to his body. Mmmmm Nataniel's animal wanted to claim her right then! Her arousal, her fragrance! Could she sense his? No, of course not. She was human!
Something was off, wait..she was manacled and chained to the wall! Her explanation was rather juvenile, he thought "grounded??". Even though the mission to kill the Bloodmoon leader failed, she may be of value. Nathaniel knocked her out and took her with him.
I've given you a taste of this wonderful adventure. I was totally unable to stop at Given, but had to continue immediately to Proven and then Chosen. You are in for a terrific, story, of revenge, loss, and found happiness and a family for Avery with Nathaniel. I hope you enjoy this TRIO as much as I did!
August 15, 2015
Part 1 was gifted to me for an honest review. The short story is a typical paranormal shifter erotica. The story revolves around the kidnaping of a member of one clan by another bent on revenge. By typical, I feel there wasn't much surprise for me that stood out to be differentiate from other shifter stories I've read. The writing is in an alternating POV and ends on a cliffhanger. From my other reviews, you'll note I do not have a problem with the either alternating POV writing style or the ending at a pivotal point.
My rating is based on my personal preference. I typically do not like when the POV changes between the female and male leads as just a re-telling of the previous scene in the last chapter rather than moving the story along. I felt chapters 1-6 reflected this style which didn't appeal to me. However, once the story reached chapter 7, it seemed to progress more fluidly. It may started to border on going a bit too fast at this point. Kudos to the author, as she is gifted in writing electric connection between the two characters in the sexually charged scenes.
This is a multiple part storyline and may pick up as the story advances. I hope the upcoming parts maybe have a bit an unexpected twist to have the story stand out as a repeatable read for me. Otherwise, it lands in between my "it was okay (2 stars)" to "I liked it (3 stars)". 2.5 out of 5 stars.
My rating is based on my personal preference. I typically do not like when the POV changes between the female and male leads as just a re-telling of the previous scene in the last chapter rather than moving the story along. I felt chapters 1-6 reflected this style which didn't appeal to me. However, once the story reached chapter 7, it seemed to progress more fluidly. It may started to border on going a bit too fast at this point. Kudos to the author, as she is gifted in writing electric connection between the two characters in the sexually charged scenes.
This is a multiple part storyline and may pick up as the story advances. I hope the upcoming parts maybe have a bit an unexpected twist to have the story stand out as a repeatable read for me. Otherwise, it lands in between my "it was okay (2 stars)" to "I liked it (3 stars)". 2.5 out of 5 stars.
July 30, 2015
Avery thought she was going to finally be free, little did she realize she was going from one prison to another in this exciting first installment of the Dawnclaw Alphas serial.
Avery doesn’t know what to think about how her body is reacting to Nathaniel and the reader can’t help but get drawn into the darker side of passion as Nathaniel tries to deny his attraction to his new prisoner. The chemistry flows from the pages with vibrant intensity and the fast paced smooth flowing plots excites readers with suspense and passion. Expectation builds lots of tension throughout the well written scenes as Avery awaits to discover what will become of her while the strong compelling characters and fascinating plot guarantees that the readers will come back for more.
I have to tell you that the story flips flops points of view throughout but I was completely caught by the intensity of the emotions and characters of the story. The author has created a romance on the darker side of a shifter world and promises to be one very passionate read and I can’t wait to read the next one, especially after that hair-raising cliffhanger.
Avery doesn’t know what to think about how her body is reacting to Nathaniel and the reader can’t help but get drawn into the darker side of passion as Nathaniel tries to deny his attraction to his new prisoner. The chemistry flows from the pages with vibrant intensity and the fast paced smooth flowing plots excites readers with suspense and passion. Expectation builds lots of tension throughout the well written scenes as Avery awaits to discover what will become of her while the strong compelling characters and fascinating plot guarantees that the readers will come back for more.
I have to tell you that the story flips flops points of view throughout but I was completely caught by the intensity of the emotions and characters of the story. The author has created a romance on the darker side of a shifter world and promises to be one very passionate read and I can’t wait to read the next one, especially after that hair-raising cliffhanger.
July 29, 2015
"Rescued by a big kitty"
Oh this is an exciting book!. The story line and characters are amazing!. Avery was chained up in her room when she hears sounds of a battle out side her door. Next thing she knows her door bursts open and a man with a gun rushes in. He is looking for her so called Father the leader of the Bloodmoon Clan. The Assassin seems to be some kind of cat shifter. He has killed almost all the clan guards. When Avery can not tell him where the leader is he knocks her out and takes her with him. When she wakes up she is taken to the Dawnclaw Bear Clan Leader. The leader gives her to the Assassin as his slave. Avery did not tell them she is the so called Daughter of the Bloodmoon clans leader. Nathaniel in the Assassin plus he is a panther shifter. He has a urge to mate and mark Avery for some reason but he fights it. This is an amazing suspenseful and scorching hot book! It is a must must read!.
Oh this is an exciting book!. The story line and characters are amazing!. Avery was chained up in her room when she hears sounds of a battle out side her door. Next thing she knows her door bursts open and a man with a gun rushes in. He is looking for her so called Father the leader of the Bloodmoon Clan. The Assassin seems to be some kind of cat shifter. He has killed almost all the clan guards. When Avery can not tell him where the leader is he knocks her out and takes her with him. When she wakes up she is taken to the Dawnclaw Bear Clan Leader. The leader gives her to the Assassin as his slave. Avery did not tell them she is the so called Daughter of the Bloodmoon clans leader. Nathaniel in the Assassin plus he is a panther shifter. He has a urge to mate and mark Avery for some reason but he fights it. This is an amazing suspenseful and scorching hot book! It is a must must read!.
July 29, 2015
I was given this ARC for an honest review. I liked this book. It is definitely a good start to a new series. There is some violence and some sexual content. The story is well written and a dark story. It will be interesting to see where Avery and Nathaniel go from here. The ending is definitely a cliffhanger. I'm looking forward to part 2.
July 28, 2015
I was pleasantly surprised by this book! I am not big on super natural type books so I was a little apprehensive. It turns out, I loved it. The end had me hanging on a cliff! Can't wait to read the second installment!
March 9, 2016
Fantastic start to the story, need more now.
April 9, 2023
Okay
This was an okay book. Characters were interesting but somewhat predictable. Hope others in series are better. I liked it.
This was an okay book. Characters were interesting but somewhat predictable. Hope others in series are better. I liked it.
August 15, 2015
Gah! What a cliffhanger! Glad I had waited for all three books to be in my hot little hands...
I know these books have been released in pretty close succession, but cliffhangers are not my friend unless I have the full series or serial. Thank you, Athena, for the gift of all three at ONCE. Whew. I would not have liked this cliffie at all, but, in this case, I LOVE IT!
I really like the author's take on shifters. Some of them have figured out how to shift back to their human form with clothing the same color as their fur, while other unfortunate shifters are left starkers. LOL!
MINE. I love this word in a shifter book. The claiming ritual the alpha males does gets me both in the heart and in the gut. SO hot. I have NO idea how this is going to become a menage with that kind of bond in place. Make me believe it, Athena! I really like that the author used dual POV to let us inside the frightened female AND the alpha shifter. I can't wait unless they REALLY start talking with each other. The next book is called Proven. I'm hoping that's how she is proven to be loyal, with good, old-fashioned talking, and maybe some hot sex. ;)
I have been "given" (see what I did there?) a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I know these books have been released in pretty close succession, but cliffhangers are not my friend unless I have the full series or serial. Thank you, Athena, for the gift of all three at ONCE. Whew. I would not have liked this cliffie at all, but, in this case, I LOVE IT!
I really like the author's take on shifters. Some of them have figured out how to shift back to their human form with clothing the same color as their fur, while other unfortunate shifters are left starkers. LOL!
MINE. I love this word in a shifter book. The claiming ritual the alpha males does gets me both in the heart and in the gut. SO hot. I have NO idea how this is going to become a menage with that kind of bond in place. Make me believe it, Athena! I really like that the author used dual POV to let us inside the frightened female AND the alpha shifter. I can't wait unless they REALLY start talking with each other. The next book is called Proven. I'm hoping that's how she is proven to be loyal, with good, old-fashioned talking, and maybe some hot sex. ;)
I have been "given" (see what I did there?) a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2015
Poor Avery. She chained in her room by the man calling himself her father, the Bloodmoon Alpha, to be used and abused by men he associates with and his guards. Now she's being kidnapped from her home prison by a the Dawnclaw clan. The Dawnclaw clan was an ally to Bloodmoon, but is now a rival and Nathaniel was sent to kill the alpha. After killing all of the guards, Nathaniel finds Avery chained in her bedroom and takes her as a hostage instead. Avery fails to mention her "relationship" with the Bloodmoon Alpha but is happy to get away from him and help Dawnclaw. Nathaniel is gifted Avery as a reward from his alpha. He's hoping Nate will get information from Avery but instead decides to use her as bait. Nathaniel and Avery have an unmistakable bond growing that neither understands. Avery also has an attraction to the Dawnclaw Alpha's son, Riley. Where Nathaniel is hard, commanding, emotionally closed off and arrogant, Riley is kind, caring and attentive. Both men make Avery feel safe and she's not sure which one she would choose if she were free to do so. The thing about Avery is that she never gives up hope and she is still convinced she will have a life. I'll have to get book 2 right away.
July 30, 2015
Oh my oh my! If you are looking for a quick hot fry you shorts paranormal romance, run do not walk to your nearest one click!
We meet Avery - she is locked and chained in a room, she is used to the noises of chaos but somehow today it sounds different as if they place she lives (she can't really call it a home) is under attack. Then bang the door comes down and in walks Nathaniel - he is pure energy and sexy as hell. When Nathaniel knocks down the door he smells Avery and is overwhelmed with the feeling that she is his.
The quick adventure starts - why is Avery locked away. What secrets does she hide? Will Nathaniel accomplish his mission to bring down the Leader of Bloodmoon Pack?
Prepare yourself for a quick hot ride into the world of Weres. For being so short, I found Ms. Wrights characters well developed and strong. The story line carries you along and then slaps you in the face and will leave you screaming for what comes next (can you say cliffhanger!) Well, done - Next please :)
We meet Avery - she is locked and chained in a room, she is used to the noises of chaos but somehow today it sounds different as if they place she lives (she can't really call it a home) is under attack. Then bang the door comes down and in walks Nathaniel - he is pure energy and sexy as hell. When Nathaniel knocks down the door he smells Avery and is overwhelmed with the feeling that she is his.
The quick adventure starts - why is Avery locked away. What secrets does she hide? Will Nathaniel accomplish his mission to bring down the Leader of Bloodmoon Pack?
Prepare yourself for a quick hot ride into the world of Weres. For being so short, I found Ms. Wrights characters well developed and strong. The story line carries you along and then slaps you in the face and will leave you screaming for what comes next (can you say cliffhanger!) Well, done - Next please :)
August 3, 2015
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Who doesn't like alpha males, especially of the paranormal type? In this beginning installment of a serial we get a splash of what's to come! Avery has been beaten down and abused by a clan of shifters, but when a rivaling clan comes to kill their leader Avery is taken as hostage. I think that's pretty strong to be able to go from one poop situation to another without breaking down. One peculiar thing about her kidnapper is that she has an instant attraction to the alluring Nathaniel that goes both ways. Nathaniel is used to having control of all of his emotions, but something about this broken girl makes him lose it. Will she survive long enough for them to see what draws them together? This did have a little steam, but things are just getting heated up!! I can't wait to see what happens next! I highly recommend this novella to those interested in shifters, steam, characters with broken pasts, and a good dose of suspense at the end!!
Who doesn't like alpha males, especially of the paranormal type? In this beginning installment of a serial we get a splash of what's to come! Avery has been beaten down and abused by a clan of shifters, but when a rivaling clan comes to kill their leader Avery is taken as hostage. I think that's pretty strong to be able to go from one poop situation to another without breaking down. One peculiar thing about her kidnapper is that she has an instant attraction to the alluring Nathaniel that goes both ways. Nathaniel is used to having control of all of his emotions, but something about this broken girl makes him lose it. Will she survive long enough for them to see what draws them together? This did have a little steam, but things are just getting heated up!! I can't wait to see what happens next! I highly recommend this novella to those interested in shifters, steam, characters with broken pasts, and a good dose of suspense at the end!!
August 3, 2015
***ARC gifted by author in exchange for an honest review***
Given is part 1 of the Dawnclaw Alphas serial novella trilogy. These books are short, but they really pack some punch! In Given, we meet Avery, who is the manacled captive and adopted daughter of the leader of the Bloodmoon clan. I’m pretty sure more will come of her story. We aren’t told a lot, but it seems her life has been filled with abuse, humiliation and contempt by the other clan members.
Nathaniel is a panther shifter and presumably the last of his kind. Again, I suspect more of his story will come in parts 2 and 3 of the series. He frees Avery only to deliver her into captivity to his own clan. I’m currently on the fence about Nathaniel. He has an instant attraction to Avery, who reciprocates, so we will see where it goes in the rest of the series. This book ended on a whopper of a cliffhanger! I’m so glad I have the next book. :)
Overall, the writing is solid, and the story definitely attracted my interest! I’m excited to read more. I’d rate this a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
Given is part 1 of the Dawnclaw Alphas serial novella trilogy. These books are short, but they really pack some punch! In Given, we meet Avery, who is the manacled captive and adopted daughter of the leader of the Bloodmoon clan. I’m pretty sure more will come of her story. We aren’t told a lot, but it seems her life has been filled with abuse, humiliation and contempt by the other clan members.
Nathaniel is a panther shifter and presumably the last of his kind. Again, I suspect more of his story will come in parts 2 and 3 of the series. He frees Avery only to deliver her into captivity to his own clan. I’m currently on the fence about Nathaniel. He has an instant attraction to Avery, who reciprocates, so we will see where it goes in the rest of the series. This book ended on a whopper of a cliffhanger! I’m so glad I have the next book. :)
Overall, the writing is solid, and the story definitely attracted my interest! I’m excited to read more. I’d rate this a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
August 11, 2015
This story starts off with excitement from the very beginning. I like when I'm introduced to main characters quickly so I can begin getting to know them. Avery is our leading lady who clearly is more than she seems but you're not completely sure what yet. She begins the story chained up in her bedroom. Then in comes Nathaniel. He's intense and brooding and rescues Avery. He's into her and she's into him but he's got baggage and he's holding back. You also meet Riley. He's the son of the leader of the Dawnclaw clan who has taken Avery hostage. He's the polar opposite of Nathaniel and Avery finds herself attracted to both men.
I enjoyed this quick pace short story. It's a little steamy and clearly has potential for more. There is not one but two men to drool over. There is plenty of background story to keep the reader interested while watching the development of things between Avery, Nathaniel, and Riley. This story ends on a cliffhanger, but I can't wait to get my hands on the next installment.
I enjoyed this quick pace short story. It's a little steamy and clearly has potential for more. There is not one but two men to drool over. There is plenty of background story to keep the reader interested while watching the development of things between Avery, Nathaniel, and Riley. This story ends on a cliffhanger, but I can't wait to get my hands on the next installment.
July 31, 2015
***An ARC was received for an honest review.***
I haven't read a paranormal romance since Twilight, I really prefer more realistic stories. However, I will say that this story surprised me in a very good way.
Avery, chained and locked in a room within the compound of one shape shifting clan, Bloodmoon, is suddenly taken by Nathaniel from a rival clan, Dawnclaw. She finds herself a prisoner of sorts in her new surroundings and struggles to understand her intense physical attraction to her captor. When the warring clans clash, Avery is caught in the crossfire in a thrilling cliffhanger.
As stated, I wasn't sure if this book was going to be something I'd like. The strength of the writing, the fast-pace of the storytelling, and the foreshadowing details of things to come made this a very entertaining read. I am intrigued by the characters and their as-yet unrevealed secrets, and I fully intend to read the second instalment.
4.5 "howl-at-the-moon" stars
I haven't read a paranormal romance since Twilight, I really prefer more realistic stories. However, I will say that this story surprised me in a very good way.
Avery, chained and locked in a room within the compound of one shape shifting clan, Bloodmoon, is suddenly taken by Nathaniel from a rival clan, Dawnclaw. She finds herself a prisoner of sorts in her new surroundings and struggles to understand her intense physical attraction to her captor. When the warring clans clash, Avery is caught in the crossfire in a thrilling cliffhanger.
As stated, I wasn't sure if this book was going to be something I'd like. The strength of the writing, the fast-pace of the storytelling, and the foreshadowing details of things to come made this a very entertaining read. I am intrigued by the characters and their as-yet unrevealed secrets, and I fully intend to read the second instalment.
4.5 "howl-at-the-moon" stars
October 7, 2015
*This book was gifted to me for an honest review.*
This story is very short and ends in a cliffhanger, and while I'm sure that things will be explained in the next 2 books, (at least I hope so), it left me with a sense of not really knowing who the characters are. It was written in alternating POVs, but only re-told what had just happened without really adding anything new. It was a little frustrating to re-experience the same scene nearly every time the point-of-view changed. I felt the time could have been better spent developing the characters instead.
That being said, I will read the next 2 books, because I hate to leave a story unfinished, and I always hope that the end will justify the journey, and that I will grow to care about the characters. I've read plenty of book series when I hated the the first book, but loved the rest. And I certainly didn't hate this book. I give it 2.5 to 3 stars.
This story is very short and ends in a cliffhanger, and while I'm sure that things will be explained in the next 2 books, (at least I hope so), it left me with a sense of not really knowing who the characters are. It was written in alternating POVs, but only re-told what had just happened without really adding anything new. It was a little frustrating to re-experience the same scene nearly every time the point-of-view changed. I felt the time could have been better spent developing the characters instead.
That being said, I will read the next 2 books, because I hate to leave a story unfinished, and I always hope that the end will justify the journey, and that I will grow to care about the characters. I've read plenty of book series when I hated the the first book, but loved the rest. And I certainly didn't hate this book. I give it 2.5 to 3 stars.
August 12, 2015
Nooooooo! That ending though....
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review and I am honestly mad that it ended the way it did! Talk about cliffhangers. Jeesh.. Anywho, It was very well written (according to my standards) and easy to slip into the story from beginning to the end with Avery and Nathaniel. A lot happened in the short amount of time it takes to read it. Now, i've been out of the paranormal, shifters and such scene for a while, but this makes me want to go back, but only if they're going to be dark, dangerous and sexy. Nathaniel and Avery's shmexy scenes were so hot that i forgot this was a paranormal novella. Also, I enjoyed reading from both, Nathaniel and Avery's POV.
God I wish it was longer! It actually was surprisingly good and WELL worth the read. Very well written Ms. Athena and I think i will be moving on to part 2 and 3 just to find out the outcome of that cliffhanger and to see if there will be a love triangle brewing. I'm freakin excited!
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review and I am honestly mad that it ended the way it did! Talk about cliffhangers. Jeesh.. Anywho, It was very well written (according to my standards) and easy to slip into the story from beginning to the end with Avery and Nathaniel. A lot happened in the short amount of time it takes to read it. Now, i've been out of the paranormal, shifters and such scene for a while, but this makes me want to go back, but only if they're going to be dark, dangerous and sexy. Nathaniel and Avery's shmexy scenes were so hot that i forgot this was a paranormal novella. Also, I enjoyed reading from both, Nathaniel and Avery's POV.
God I wish it was longer! It actually was surprisingly good and WELL worth the read. Very well written Ms. Athena and I think i will be moving on to part 2 and 3 just to find out the outcome of that cliffhanger and to see if there will be a love triangle brewing. I'm freakin excited!
July 29, 2015
Originally posted on my blogLive Laugh & Love Books
I really enjoyed Given: Dawnclaw, and I am looking forward to reading the next two parts! The characters are interesting and the guys sound just delicious. I do wish I knew more about the characters, but that will probably happen in the other parts so I’m just even more excited to read them. I also like how it wasn’t ‘insta love’, that’s kind of getting old in a lot of other books, but with this one there seems to be a reluctance that actually sounds realistic.
*I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
August 3, 2015
Would you believe I blasted through this in about 30mins. I literally devoured page after page. Given is the 1st part in The Dawnclaw Alphas series. It is jam packed with all the goodies. Action, suspense, a riveting storyline and above all, what we love best, scorching hot shifters. 95 pages that leave you gasping and wanting more. This is the first time I read anything by author Athena Wright and I can honestly say I loved the whole concept. Nathaniel is badass, Riley seems loyal, sweet yet just as hard when needed and Avery is going to be someone to be reckoned with. I am so looking forward to the next part. I was gifted an ARC copy in return for an honest review.
July 31, 2015
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I wasn't sure at first if I would be interested in this type of story - I've never read a book that involved non-human characters. However, I was pleasantly surprised. This is a short story - sometimes we just need a quick read that grabs our attention and this was it. The book includes: tense hot moments between the characters, romance, alpha males, and suspense. The ending had a great way of closing out the beginning of the book while still leaving you hanging to see what happens in #2. I'm glad I read this book and was introduced to the characters.
August 14, 2015
I will be honest, I wasn't sure what to expect. This was my first book from Athena. I absolutely loved it! I love PNR, so I expected to at least like it, but it surpassed my expectations!
Avery is living her life, basically alone. Trapped. Until Nathaniel comes in and "kidnaps" her. She then becomes his property to do with as he sees fit.
She's not there for long before they decide to make a trade with her original keeper... Riley stands guard over her.
This story is shorter than I'd hoped, but that's because I want more. And I can't decide who is hotter... Nathaniel or Riley. I very much can't wait to read what happens next!
Avery is living her life, basically alone. Trapped. Until Nathaniel comes in and "kidnaps" her. She then becomes his property to do with as he sees fit.
She's not there for long before they decide to make a trade with her original keeper... Riley stands guard over her.
This story is shorter than I'd hoped, but that's because I want more. And I can't decide who is hotter... Nathaniel or Riley. I very much can't wait to read what happens next!
October 2, 2015
This is the first in a three part series. It does end in a cliffhanger.
This book in written in different POV,
Avery is a prisoner at her clans house. When Nathaniel comes to the house looking for her "father", he finds her chained up. He feels a strong attraction to her that he doesn't understand. He ends up taking her back to his group, since he can't find her "father". Will Nathaniel follow through with his attraction to her? or Will he let someone else step in?
This was a short quick, but good read. I am ready to read the next book in the series.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book in written in different POV,
Avery is a prisoner at her clans house. When Nathaniel comes to the house looking for her "father", he finds her chained up. He feels a strong attraction to her that he doesn't understand. He ends up taking her back to his group, since he can't find her "father". Will Nathaniel follow through with his attraction to her? or Will he let someone else step in?
This was a short quick, but good read. I am ready to read the next book in the series.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 30, 2016
Avery has been a prisoner to her cruel father for as long as she can remember; but then everything changes one day when a deadly shifter breaks down the door to where she's being kept.
A great premise for a story but I don't think the writing is there to back it up. The book starts strong but goes downhill after the initial rescue scene.
I don't really find how quickly the relationships form to be realistic and the way the main character flings herself at the two main leads is a bit desperate.
That been said the sex scenes are pretty steamy and it's not unreadable, hence the three stars instead of one
A great premise for a story but I don't think the writing is there to back it up. The book starts strong but goes downhill after the initial rescue scene.
I don't really find how quickly the relationships form to be realistic and the way the main character flings herself at the two main leads is a bit desperate.
That been said the sex scenes are pretty steamy and it's not unreadable, hence the three stars instead of one
July 28, 2015
I was given an ARC by the author for an honest review.
This is the first i read of this author and i have to say i am excited!!!
Despite the fact this is a short story from the first page till the last it was captivating.
No boring talking,no unecessary scenes.
It was fast paced ,to the point,full of emotions and action and with some really nice sexual scenes.
Despite the fact it ends with a cliff hanger(which i am known for hating) this book left me satisfied and at the same time with a need to know what will happen in the coming book.
Can't wait for more.
This is the first i read of this author and i have to say i am excited!!!
Despite the fact this is a short story from the first page till the last it was captivating.
No boring talking,no unecessary scenes.
It was fast paced ,to the point,full of emotions and action and with some really nice sexual scenes.
Despite the fact it ends with a cliff hanger(which i am known for hating) this book left me satisfied and at the same time with a need to know what will happen in the coming book.
Can't wait for more.
February 3, 2016
Really enjoyable start to the series. This is a shorty with about 48 pages and ends in a cliffhanger. I believe the second and third segments are due out shortly so there isn't going to be a lengthy wait. I liked Avery's strength, she may seem weak but her compliance is for survival. Nathaniel wants Avery very badly but he sees avenging his clan as a priority. The emotional battle leaves him running hot and cold with Avery. I loved Riley's sweet demeanor. His gentle kindness is something Avery craves.
Adult read
Adult read
July 30, 2015
Nathaniel is on a mission of Revenge! Avery is being held captive by her clan! What will happen when the assassin becomes her savior and then her master! Nathaniel is fighting the mating urge he feels towards Avery, he wants no distractions from his mission. With a plan set to take down the enemy and the bait in place, will it all go down as planned? Will a secret that Avery hasn't revealed ruin it all? I need the next part...pronto!!
July 31, 2015
I absolutely loved it! I'll be the first to admit that I normally don't like this episode fad going right now but OMG what a story!! If you've not started reading Athena Wright's books then you HAVE to! This is my first book by her and I'm already addicted! She has so much content packed in this book, it's almost unbelievable. Shifters, action, drama and more! Very strong characters and fantastic story line! A HIGHLY RECOMMENDED READ! More please.
July 28, 2015
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
I really liked this book! I normally don't like when there a different animals like were____, but it all worked out. Right when I started, I couldn't put it down. I also really loved the cliff hanger, I desperately wanted to know what would happen and I couldn't stop thinking about it.
I really liked this book! I normally don't like when there a different animals like were____, but it all worked out. Right when I started, I couldn't put it down. I also really loved the cliff hanger, I desperately wanted to know what would happen and I couldn't stop thinking about it.
July 29, 2015
I was given an Arc by the author for an honest review
This is a paranormal shifter, the first in a new series, I really enjoyed this book it was told in both Avery and Nathaniel point of views,
it has danger and hot sex as you would imagine with shifters, the story is fluid and keeps you interested, it ends on a cliff hanger leaving you wanting more so be warned, can't wait for part 2
This is a paranormal shifter, the first in a new series, I really enjoyed this book it was told in both Avery and Nathaniel point of views,
it has danger and hot sex as you would imagine with shifters, the story is fluid and keeps you interested, it ends on a cliff hanger leaving you wanting more so be warned, can't wait for part 2
January 18, 2016
This certainly is not the average storyline and although it is broken up into 4 different books, the overall story is interesting. I wasn't sure how I felt about these characters in the beginning, the secrets and the chemistry did make this all the more intense. Throughout each book, we come to learn more about each character and in the end, it all comes together to show what a great read it is.
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