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Alpha's Darkling Bride
A wolfish marriage of convenience
Jess:
Montana rancher Cade Derringer wants me naked and vulnerable.
Screw that.
The last thing I need is a dirty-talking, bad boy shifter crashing into my life.
Especially the wolf pack alpha, who never lets me forget that the first time he saw me, I was stark-freaking-bare-assed.
Trouble is, I can't seem to stop losing my clothes around him.
But that doesn't mean I like him.
Nor does it mean I’ll obey his sexy, arrogant orders…
Even if I am forced to marry the jerk.
Cade:
I've got no damn use for a wife.
Especially one with dark, mysterious secrets.
I'm a hunter. Chicks like her are my natural prey.
But Jess lights me up with mystic fire every time I nail her.
If she thinks that means we're fated mates, forget it.
I take what’s mine, but I don't believe in fairy tales.
Author’s Note: Alpha’s Darkling Bride is a full-length, standalone novel with hot sex, strong language, and an HEA.
Jess:
Montana rancher Cade Derringer wants me naked and vulnerable.
Screw that.
The last thing I need is a dirty-talking, bad boy shifter crashing into my life.
Especially the wolf pack alpha, who never lets me forget that the first time he saw me, I was stark-freaking-bare-assed.
Trouble is, I can't seem to stop losing my clothes around him.
But that doesn't mean I like him.
Nor does it mean I’ll obey his sexy, arrogant orders…
Even if I am forced to marry the jerk.
Cade:
I've got no damn use for a wife.
Especially one with dark, mysterious secrets.
I'm a hunter. Chicks like her are my natural prey.
But Jess lights me up with mystic fire every time I nail her.
If she thinks that means we're fated mates, forget it.
I take what’s mine, but I don't believe in fairy tales.
Author’s Note: Alpha’s Darkling Bride is a full-length, standalone novel with hot sex, strong language, and an HEA.
576 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 8, 2015
153 people are currently reading
318 people want to read
About the author
Linda Barlow
47 books231 followersLinda Barlow is the author of 25 novels in various genres, including family sagas, historical and contemporary romance, romantic suspense, erotic romance, and general mainstream fiction.
Publishers have included Doubleday, Dell, Penguin, Warner Books, New American Library/Signet, Berkley/Putnam, Silhouette and Harlequin. Her books have been translated into approximately 20 foreign languages.
Linda is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling novelist. Several of her romances have hit the top 10 in the Kindle Store. She's also won numerous industry awards, including the Rita from Romance Writers of America (1989), Best New Historical Romance Author from Romantic Times (1986) and a Lifetime Achievement award from Romantic Times. She also contributed two essays to Dangerous Men and Adventurous Women, a collection of scholarly essays on the enduring appeal of the romance. This book won the Susan Koppelman Award for Excellence in Feminist Studies of Popular Culture and American Culture in 1993.
Linda is now indie publishing and loving it!
Linda served as President of Novelists, Inc. in 1992 and did two three-year terms on the Executive Council of the Authors Guild in the 1990s. She was Romance Writers of America’s keynote speaker at the annual conference in 1989.
When she is not at her computer writing, she is likely to be reading. She can't imagine what her life would be like without books!
Publishers have included Doubleday, Dell, Penguin, Warner Books, New American Library/Signet, Berkley/Putnam, Silhouette and Harlequin. Her books have been translated into approximately 20 foreign languages.
Linda is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling novelist. Several of her romances have hit the top 10 in the Kindle Store. She's also won numerous industry awards, including the Rita from Romance Writers of America (1989), Best New Historical Romance Author from Romantic Times (1986) and a Lifetime Achievement award from Romantic Times. She also contributed two essays to Dangerous Men and Adventurous Women, a collection of scholarly essays on the enduring appeal of the romance. This book won the Susan Koppelman Award for Excellence in Feminist Studies of Popular Culture and American Culture in 1993.
Linda is now indie publishing and loving it!
Linda served as President of Novelists, Inc. in 1992 and did two three-year terms on the Executive Council of the Authors Guild in the 1990s. She was Romance Writers of America’s keynote speaker at the annual conference in 1989.
When she is not at her computer writing, she is likely to be reading. She can't imagine what her life would be like without books!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
September 28, 2015
4 stars
I really, really liked this little gem of a shifter book! I didn't expect to and it took me a few pages to get into it but once all the lore details started I really enjoyed it.
I found something akin to a unicorn. Something I hadn't read before! Or at least a certain aspect I had not read before in another shifter book. Our heroine is a multiform shifter, that in itself isn't original but the fact she turns into a darkling, a bloodthirsty winged fanged creature with origins in another dimension, is.
I was very interested in the whole lore and history in the multiform creatures and constantly thought that Linda Barlow should make this into a series.
Cade and Jess had the insta-lust down to pat. The sex was pretty hot and I wouldn't have minded if their relationship was more evenly paced. I could see where the plot was going and the requisite bad guy was easily spotted. Their individual pasts were also intriguing in their own way but I felt as though something was lacking from them. But that's probably just me.
And BONUS – complete novels, The Zrakon’s Bride and The Zrakon’s Curse, are included for a short time in this book! Which as far as I understood, all share some characters and lore with this one but are standalones! Big shout-out to Linda Barlow!
And now sorry to cut this one short but I gotta go read the bonus novels!
I really, really liked this little gem of a shifter book! I didn't expect to and it took me a few pages to get into it but once all the lore details started I really enjoyed it.
I found something akin to a unicorn. Something I hadn't read before! Or at least a certain aspect I had not read before in another shifter book. Our heroine is a multiform shifter, that in itself isn't original but the fact she turns into a darkling, a bloodthirsty winged fanged creature with origins in another dimension, is.
I was very interested in the whole lore and history in the multiform creatures and constantly thought that Linda Barlow should make this into a series.
Cade and Jess had the insta-lust down to pat. The sex was pretty hot and I wouldn't have minded if their relationship was more evenly paced. I could see where the plot was going and the requisite bad guy was easily spotted. Their individual pasts were also intriguing in their own way but I felt as though something was lacking from them. But that's probably just me.
And BONUS – complete novels, The Zrakon’s Bride and The Zrakon’s Curse, are included for a short time in this book! Which as far as I understood, all share some characters and lore with this one but are standalones! Big shout-out to Linda Barlow!
And now sorry to cut this one short but I gotta go read the bonus novels!
no-dnf-zzz-avoid
May 1, 2016DNF
December 19, 2015
DNF @28%
I tried so hard to get back to this book but I really didn't like or connect with any of the characters. I didn't feel while reading the parts that I did that Cade was any kind of alpha.
I tried so hard to get back to this book but I really didn't like or connect with any of the characters. I didn't feel while reading the parts that I did that Cade was any kind of alpha.
September 28, 2015
Oh holy freaking stupid werewolves.
I thought I had a good paranormal romance book streak going on but alas, apparently all good this must come to an end. This book was just freaking stupid. Thank god it was free on kindle unlimited. Although, technically, you could say that I DNF this book at 48% because I refused to read the other two books that were apparently included in this ridiculously bad marriage of convenience romance with a side of shifters thrown in as an after thought.
Good Lord, why am I even writing a review for a book this awful.
I thought I had a good paranormal romance book streak going on but alas, apparently all good this must come to an end. This book was just freaking stupid. Thank god it was free on kindle unlimited. Although, technically, you could say that I DNF this book at 48% because I refused to read the other two books that were apparently included in this ridiculously bad marriage of convenience romance with a side of shifters thrown in as an after thought.
Good Lord, why am I even writing a review for a book this awful.
September 28, 2015
Alpha’s Darkling Bride was super interesting to me. I’ve read plenty of shifter stories, but not one where someone could shift into multiple forms. This made for an interesting premise and it was incredibly well executed. Jess came to Montana damaged from a hard life in Scotland and hoping to spend some time with her Grandpa. Staying with him she can’t stop from seeing the alpha of the local pack constantly. Cade is crass, arrogant and stubborn. However Jess can’t help but be attracted to him, so they decide one night together will be enough to clear away the sexual tension between them and while secretly wanting more, they quickly decide that there is nothing deeper to their connection except for the physical. Her Grandpa disagrees and manages to trap them into a marriage which forces them to look deeper into their connection and into accepting not only themselves, but their pasts and embracing a future neither of them saw for themselves. This was a really fun read that sucked me in from the very first page. While there is a slight mystery included in the plot, it was incredibly obvious what the real story was, however it was a minor part of the plot and therefore not all that disappointing to realise there wasn’t much more to it. A must read for paranormal fans!
September 10, 2015
A new to me author and I’ll be looking for more from her. I was really glad to have had the chance to receive the ARC in exchange for my honest review. Loving shifters the way I do, it was easy to fall into the story.
A full length story with characters that you have a chance to get to know. The story flowed well and wasn’t rushed at all.
Who doesn’t love a bad boy? Top that off with a bad boy Alpha and you’re in shifter heaven. Jess I couldn’t help but want to hug her up, a time or two wanted shake her but yeah. (smiles) Her lot in life hasn’t been always easy, living with a violent past and a secret that only a few know and if she isn’t careful will be revealed. Cade and Jess are pretty much pushed into being together, Cade time to end the sowing of his oats, Jess the time to trust a bit more.
Jess and Cade has a few hurdles to jump over, an alpha by vote, a shifter that doesn’t like to hunt, jealousy and someone out to take the alpha seat. Now add some cuddling, a bit of sass, a bit of dirty talking and even dirtier actions. You have a book that will keep you interested. I recommended to shifter lovers. I enjoyed it and sure you will as well.
A full length story with characters that you have a chance to get to know. The story flowed well and wasn’t rushed at all.
Who doesn’t love a bad boy? Top that off with a bad boy Alpha and you’re in shifter heaven. Jess I couldn’t help but want to hug her up, a time or two wanted shake her but yeah. (smiles) Her lot in life hasn’t been always easy, living with a violent past and a secret that only a few know and if she isn’t careful will be revealed. Cade and Jess are pretty much pushed into being together, Cade time to end the sowing of his oats, Jess the time to trust a bit more.
Jess and Cade has a few hurdles to jump over, an alpha by vote, a shifter that doesn’t like to hunt, jealousy and someone out to take the alpha seat. Now add some cuddling, a bit of sass, a bit of dirty talking and even dirtier actions. You have a book that will keep you interested. I recommended to shifter lovers. I enjoyed it and sure you will as well.
September 28, 2015
PNR/shifter romance is not usually my favorite genre, however after seeing this book as one of the top best sellers in Kindle romance I took a chance on it. I really enjoyed the romance between Cade and Jess as well as the suspense the author gave us in the story. I think I'll be checking out more stories by this author.
September 14, 2015
This was a very HOT read.
I love the storyline and characters.
The story was well paced.
I recommend this to anyone who love hot, badass , sexy and
possessive alpha wolf shifter!
I love the storyline and characters.
The story was well paced.
I recommend this to anyone who love hot, badass , sexy and
possessive alpha wolf shifter!
September 12, 2015
Alpha's darkling bride Linda Barlow
Reviewed by SFF Dragon
Thanks to a matchmaking Grandpa, the former Bad Boy Cade and the emotionally scarred Jess get their HEA.
'Alpha's Darkling Bride' is a full-length, and at 529 pages containing 51 chapters, I'd call it the extra-long sizing of full length, stand alone novel by Linda Barlow and part of the Bad Boy Alphas multi author series of paranormal romances. I was given a copy by the author in exchange for an honest review and I was so totally absorbed in story that I'd read over a third of the book before I even realised it. I just got sucked in a kept there as the story unfolded and I loved it. From the matchmaking Grandpa through trauma and bad guys to dark secrets revealed, this book tells a story, and it's not your usual paranormal romance, but it is full of steam.
Escaping her memories of horrors past and her mother's ceaseless attempts to marry her off, multiform shifter Jess MacLeish has gone home to Montana to stay with her beloved Grandfather, Tom, in the hopes that she can just settle down to a quiet life of painting and graphic design, but those hopes are dashed almost as soon as she gets there and within three weeks, thanks to a solemn promise and her grandfather's will, and despite her serious misgivings, she's married to the reformed Whittier werewolf pack alpha, Cade Derringer, and they discover they are true mates, even if they are in denial.
Without giving any spoilers, this is the developing story of a relationship. One that starts out as temporary, but as the book progresses the true mates become emotionally attached to each, dark secrets are forced into the light and the plans of an ambitious murderer to control the pack by killing off the Derringer line of Alphas keep getting thwarted. There are a great many likeable characters in this book, some not so likeable and some truly evil. Following the twists and turns as secrets are brought into the open and all is not as dark as originally feared, there is a happy ending for Jess and Cade, even if others find their happiness was only a charade and they were being used for nefarious purposes and I really felt for them. This book is well worth reading, but you need to set aside about a week so you don't miss anything and can truly enjoy it. I really did enjoy this book and have given it 5 stars.
Reviewed by SFF Dragon
Thanks to a matchmaking Grandpa, the former Bad Boy Cade and the emotionally scarred Jess get their HEA.
'Alpha's Darkling Bride' is a full-length, and at 529 pages containing 51 chapters, I'd call it the extra-long sizing of full length, stand alone novel by Linda Barlow and part of the Bad Boy Alphas multi author series of paranormal romances. I was given a copy by the author in exchange for an honest review and I was so totally absorbed in story that I'd read over a third of the book before I even realised it. I just got sucked in a kept there as the story unfolded and I loved it. From the matchmaking Grandpa through trauma and bad guys to dark secrets revealed, this book tells a story, and it's not your usual paranormal romance, but it is full of steam.
Escaping her memories of horrors past and her mother's ceaseless attempts to marry her off, multiform shifter Jess MacLeish has gone home to Montana to stay with her beloved Grandfather, Tom, in the hopes that she can just settle down to a quiet life of painting and graphic design, but those hopes are dashed almost as soon as she gets there and within three weeks, thanks to a solemn promise and her grandfather's will, and despite her serious misgivings, she's married to the reformed Whittier werewolf pack alpha, Cade Derringer, and they discover they are true mates, even if they are in denial.
Without giving any spoilers, this is the developing story of a relationship. One that starts out as temporary, but as the book progresses the true mates become emotionally attached to each, dark secrets are forced into the light and the plans of an ambitious murderer to control the pack by killing off the Derringer line of Alphas keep getting thwarted. There are a great many likeable characters in this book, some not so likeable and some truly evil. Following the twists and turns as secrets are brought into the open and all is not as dark as originally feared, there is a happy ending for Jess and Cade, even if others find their happiness was only a charade and they were being used for nefarious purposes and I really felt for them. This book is well worth reading, but you need to set aside about a week so you don't miss anything and can truly enjoy it. I really did enjoy this book and have given it 5 stars.
September 24, 2015
Interesting twist on paranormal shifter romance. Beings who have multiple shifter forms!!
When one of your forms is frightening and fierce, maybe it's good to NOT shift at all. Hard, though. Especially when confronted with an unwanted marriage to an Alpha wolf and the loss of your most beloved family. This story had all the elements - fear, loss, anger, jealousy, love.
There were two other stories included in this book - and they were all connected.
First book - The Alpha's Darkling Bride - all about Jess and Cade - he's the Alpha and she's a multiple shifter.
Second book - The Zrakon's Bride - A lovely American girl visits Scotland to trace her roots - and finds way more that she ever could have dreamed of.
Third Book - Zrakon's Curse - A rift between worlds - and the meeting of a great love. This family is also suffering from shifting issues - and a Traveler from another world complicates their family unity by falling in love with one of the brothers.
All in all, this was a good series - all inter-connected - and well written. The characters were developed so well that it was like leaving friends and family behind when finished with the story. I hope for more on this family!!
When one of your forms is frightening and fierce, maybe it's good to NOT shift at all. Hard, though. Especially when confronted with an unwanted marriage to an Alpha wolf and the loss of your most beloved family. This story had all the elements - fear, loss, anger, jealousy, love.
There were two other stories included in this book - and they were all connected.
First book - The Alpha's Darkling Bride - all about Jess and Cade - he's the Alpha and she's a multiple shifter.
Second book - The Zrakon's Bride - A lovely American girl visits Scotland to trace her roots - and finds way more that she ever could have dreamed of.
Third Book - Zrakon's Curse - A rift between worlds - and the meeting of a great love. This family is also suffering from shifting issues - and a Traveler from another world complicates their family unity by falling in love with one of the brothers.
All in all, this was a good series - all inter-connected - and well written. The characters were developed so well that it was like leaving friends and family behind when finished with the story. I hope for more on this family!!
September 13, 2015
Where to start … with the intense sexual pull of the BBW heroine & the bad boy hero? Or, the twisting, mysterious secrets in both of their pasts? Or, the intrigue of ongoing violence & mysteries? Or, the second-guessing the reader will be doing, trying to figure out all of plot twists & turns?
Where ever I start, the result is the same – this is a definite blockbuster of an erotic, paranormal, slightly dark, shape shifter, HEA romance novel! Not being familiar with Linda Barlow’s previous work, I was so pleased to find this novel was so well written … character development was full and detailed (without being too much); there were well thought out twists throughout the book; explanations and details of past experiences were timed to not drag out too much and to give the reader insight into the character’s attitudes.
Read the synopsis; decide if you want to go on this journey with Cade and Jess as they learn about themselves, as well as each other. And be prepared for some very well written, decidedly smoking sexual tension, play and scenes between a dominate, alpha wolf and his multi-shifter mate!
Where ever I start, the result is the same – this is a definite blockbuster of an erotic, paranormal, slightly dark, shape shifter, HEA romance novel! Not being familiar with Linda Barlow’s previous work, I was so pleased to find this novel was so well written … character development was full and detailed (without being too much); there were well thought out twists throughout the book; explanations and details of past experiences were timed to not drag out too much and to give the reader insight into the character’s attitudes.
Read the synopsis; decide if you want to go on this journey with Cade and Jess as they learn about themselves, as well as each other. And be prepared for some very well written, decidedly smoking sexual tension, play and scenes between a dominate, alpha wolf and his multi-shifter mate!
October 1, 2015
A fast paced interesting and sexy tale with very likeable characters who manage to capture your attention. You like Cade despite the way he is. And Jess was independent and funny and you like the way she has to handle certain situations. It had a lot of humor and you liked and some of the serious moments to. They really made a great couple. Though there were a hiccup or two along the way. Some of the other characters were quite funny and deserve a story or two for themselves. You’ll definitely like the action, and the steaminess. So If you get a chance pick up a copy and enjoy.
September 16, 2015
This was a different type of PNR novel. I enjoyed it and really liked the chemistry between the hero and heroine
October 4, 2015
Decent shifter novel.
September 19, 2015
DELICIOUSLY SEXY AND DIVINELY ENTERTAINING !!!
Title: Alpha's Darkling Bride
Author: Linda Barlow
Designation: A Bad Boy Alpha Paranormal Romance
Standalone Novel, NO Cliffhanger
My Rating: FIVE RIVETING STARS *****
Wow! What a fabulously entertaining read! Alpha's Darkling Bride is the latest release from best-selling author Linda Barlow and she totally knocked it out of the park - again! This isn't my first time reading Linda Barlow's work so I expected great things when I began reading this novel and as always, she has delivered a spectacular paranormal tale filled to the brim with heart-stopping danger, spell-binding drama, spine-tingling suspense, heart-pounding adventure, heartbreaking angst, heated attraction, fiery passion and seductive romance. And did I forget to mention dreamy sex? Oh yes, It includes that as well! It's an all you can eat buffet for anyone that loves a little magic, fantasy and mystery tossed in with their paranormal alpha bad-boy romance. Hubba! Hubba! The story is original, exciting, riveting, fast-paced and very well crafted. It's also very unique with a slightly different spin on your typical shifter story. The narrative is exceptionally well written primarily in the first person with alternating his and her points of view from the two protagonists of the story, wolf-shifter Cade Derringer and shifter/darkling Jessica MacLeish. It does, however, also include a brief strategically inserted third person point of view from the main antagonist of the story whose identity I can't reveal since that would be a SPOILER and that's a no-no! The dialogue is extremely well executed and flows seamlessly. Both the narrative and the dialogue have an effortless cadence and an uncomplicated rhythm which make the book a true pleasure to read. Once I started reading, I lost track of time and never had to backtrack to clarify anything I had read. It was thrilling but strangely relaxing at the same time. The characters were captivating, engaging, fascinating, intriguing and well developed. They captured my attention immediately and held my interest without respite from beginning to end. The entire book was extremely well formatted and edited proving yet again that Barlow is a true professional and master of her trade. What didn't I like about this book? Not a darn thing!
Beautiful artist Jessica MacLeish is running from her life in Scotland and has sought refuge with her terminally ill paternal grandfather, Tom MacLeish, at his ranch in Montana. Her mother is trying to force her into a marriage with her second cousin, Cameron Malloch. Jess refuses to bow to the arbitrary will of her mother's fancy. She's only 24 years old for gosh sake; she's not an old maid, at least not yet. She refuses to submit to anyone and especially not a man. Little does she realize she would soon be forced to succumb to the undesirable albeit well-intentioned manipulations of her beloved well-meaning grandfather. Oh my! She never dreamed she would be betrayed by her own loving grandfather. Is it really betrayal when one wishes only the best for someone they love? Betrayal may just be a slight exaggeration but in Jess' mind, she still feels the sting of her grandfather's matchmaking attempt nonetheless. Sadly, Jess is a woman with a painful past and a very dark secret that haunts her days and fills her nights with frightening dreams. As a result, she has become afraid of intimacy and withdrawn into a loveless world of very little interaction other than an occasional one night stand for relief. After the loss of her grandfather, she is forced into a situation where denial is no longer an option. She must confront her past, her present and what she truly desires for her future which also includes her questionable fate with Cade. But will her future include dirty-talking, domineering, bad boy Cade Derringer, friend of her grandfather and current alpha of the Whittier Pack? Will he even want her once he discovers her secret? We'll see!
Bad boy Cade Derringer never wanted to be alpha of his father's pack but after his brother Aaron was killed, his father expected him to finally grow up and accept responsibility for the well being of the pack. Sadly, his father had become ill and passed only a few years after his brother which now forces him to become someone he never wanted to be - Alpha of the Whittier Pack. The welfare of his mother and his pack are now his responsibility but that doesn't mean he can't still ride his motorcycle, have a little innocent fun and sleep with all the women he wants. And the one he currently desires is Jess MacLeish. Unfortunately, she doesn't seem to want any part of him! Huh? What the heck? He's not accustomed to any woman rejecting his advances. Of course, being somewhat involved in a accident with her and her grandfather which may have been just a little of his fault, may have something to do with her current opinion of him. And damn, she's one fine looking woman with luscious curves in all the right places. He wants her and usually, sooner rather than later, he always gets what he wants. But Tom MacLeish is a not only a respected member of his pack but also one of his closest friends; he doesn't want to do anything to jeopardize his relationship with Tom. He just never dreamed that Tom would coerce him into giving a deathbed promise that he doubted he could keep. But even if Jess is willing to honor her grandfather's wishes, would 6 months ever be enough with the beautiful, spirited artist? Or will she leave Montana behind and return to her cousin in Scotland? Hmmm....I wonder??? Beautiful darkling/wolf multiform shape-changer-check! Handsome, charismatic alpha wolf shifter with a very dirty mind and mouth-check! A promise to a dying man-check! Danger, suspense, murder, betrayal, an unexpected enemy and evil machinations-check! Heated attraction, fiery passion, sweet romance and dreamy sex-you bet! That and a whole lot more! Completely captivating, seriously sexy and divinely entertaining!!!
This is a full-length standalone novel with NO cliffhanger, so enjoy!
Complimentary copy received in exchange for a review.
Title: Alpha's Darkling Bride
Author: Linda Barlow
Designation: A Bad Boy Alpha Paranormal Romance
Standalone Novel, NO Cliffhanger
My Rating: FIVE RIVETING STARS *****
Wow! What a fabulously entertaining read! Alpha's Darkling Bride is the latest release from best-selling author Linda Barlow and she totally knocked it out of the park - again! This isn't my first time reading Linda Barlow's work so I expected great things when I began reading this novel and as always, she has delivered a spectacular paranormal tale filled to the brim with heart-stopping danger, spell-binding drama, spine-tingling suspense, heart-pounding adventure, heartbreaking angst, heated attraction, fiery passion and seductive romance. And did I forget to mention dreamy sex? Oh yes, It includes that as well! It's an all you can eat buffet for anyone that loves a little magic, fantasy and mystery tossed in with their paranormal alpha bad-boy romance. Hubba! Hubba! The story is original, exciting, riveting, fast-paced and very well crafted. It's also very unique with a slightly different spin on your typical shifter story. The narrative is exceptionally well written primarily in the first person with alternating his and her points of view from the two protagonists of the story, wolf-shifter Cade Derringer and shifter/darkling Jessica MacLeish. It does, however, also include a brief strategically inserted third person point of view from the main antagonist of the story whose identity I can't reveal since that would be a SPOILER and that's a no-no! The dialogue is extremely well executed and flows seamlessly. Both the narrative and the dialogue have an effortless cadence and an uncomplicated rhythm which make the book a true pleasure to read. Once I started reading, I lost track of time and never had to backtrack to clarify anything I had read. It was thrilling but strangely relaxing at the same time. The characters were captivating, engaging, fascinating, intriguing and well developed. They captured my attention immediately and held my interest without respite from beginning to end. The entire book was extremely well formatted and edited proving yet again that Barlow is a true professional and master of her trade. What didn't I like about this book? Not a darn thing!
Beautiful artist Jessica MacLeish is running from her life in Scotland and has sought refuge with her terminally ill paternal grandfather, Tom MacLeish, at his ranch in Montana. Her mother is trying to force her into a marriage with her second cousin, Cameron Malloch. Jess refuses to bow to the arbitrary will of her mother's fancy. She's only 24 years old for gosh sake; she's not an old maid, at least not yet. She refuses to submit to anyone and especially not a man. Little does she realize she would soon be forced to succumb to the undesirable albeit well-intentioned manipulations of her beloved well-meaning grandfather. Oh my! She never dreamed she would be betrayed by her own loving grandfather. Is it really betrayal when one wishes only the best for someone they love? Betrayal may just be a slight exaggeration but in Jess' mind, she still feels the sting of her grandfather's matchmaking attempt nonetheless. Sadly, Jess is a woman with a painful past and a very dark secret that haunts her days and fills her nights with frightening dreams. As a result, she has become afraid of intimacy and withdrawn into a loveless world of very little interaction other than an occasional one night stand for relief. After the loss of her grandfather, she is forced into a situation where denial is no longer an option. She must confront her past, her present and what she truly desires for her future which also includes her questionable fate with Cade. But will her future include dirty-talking, domineering, bad boy Cade Derringer, friend of her grandfather and current alpha of the Whittier Pack? Will he even want her once he discovers her secret? We'll see!
Bad boy Cade Derringer never wanted to be alpha of his father's pack but after his brother Aaron was killed, his father expected him to finally grow up and accept responsibility for the well being of the pack. Sadly, his father had become ill and passed only a few years after his brother which now forces him to become someone he never wanted to be - Alpha of the Whittier Pack. The welfare of his mother and his pack are now his responsibility but that doesn't mean he can't still ride his motorcycle, have a little innocent fun and sleep with all the women he wants. And the one he currently desires is Jess MacLeish. Unfortunately, she doesn't seem to want any part of him! Huh? What the heck? He's not accustomed to any woman rejecting his advances. Of course, being somewhat involved in a accident with her and her grandfather which may have been just a little of his fault, may have something to do with her current opinion of him. And damn, she's one fine looking woman with luscious curves in all the right places. He wants her and usually, sooner rather than later, he always gets what he wants. But Tom MacLeish is a not only a respected member of his pack but also one of his closest friends; he doesn't want to do anything to jeopardize his relationship with Tom. He just never dreamed that Tom would coerce him into giving a deathbed promise that he doubted he could keep. But even if Jess is willing to honor her grandfather's wishes, would 6 months ever be enough with the beautiful, spirited artist? Or will she leave Montana behind and return to her cousin in Scotland? Hmmm....I wonder??? Beautiful darkling/wolf multiform shape-changer-check! Handsome, charismatic alpha wolf shifter with a very dirty mind and mouth-check! A promise to a dying man-check! Danger, suspense, murder, betrayal, an unexpected enemy and evil machinations-check! Heated attraction, fiery passion, sweet romance and dreamy sex-you bet! That and a whole lot more! Completely captivating, seriously sexy and divinely entertaining!!!
This is a full-length standalone novel with NO cliffhanger, so enjoy!
Complimentary copy received in exchange for a review.
February 3, 2020
Ok shifter romance. Jess is a multi-shifter...she can shift into a wolf and a darkling (a blood thirsty vampire like being) She returned to Scotland with her mother after her father died. Her mother got involved with an evil alpha, and Jess suffered abuse at both his and his pyscho son. When her mom suggest she marry her cousin, she hightails it back to Montana to live with her g-pa. There she meets Cade Derringer current alpha of her old pack...gramps dies, and makes them promise to be married for 6 months. Both go into the arranged marriage with the plan of separating after the 6 months are over.
The story consist of their relationship, and other pack drama, and catching a murderer. It ok paced, it looks like the book is over 500 pages, but there are two novellas stuck on the end. I didn't read either. This book is 18+
The story consist of their relationship, and other pack drama, and catching a murderer. It ok paced, it looks like the book is over 500 pages, but there are two novellas stuck on the end. I didn't read either. This book is 18+
April 10, 2018
What a great story!
I really enjoyed this adventure. The characters were well written, the plot engaging, and the banter always amusing. I hope that you enjoy this lovely story as much as I did.
I really enjoyed this adventure. The characters were well written, the plot engaging, and the banter always amusing. I hope that you enjoy this lovely story as much as I did.
September 24, 2018
Bad
If I had known this book was all about sex I never would have bought it. If I wanted porn I would go to that site.
If I had known this book was all about sex I never would have bought it. If I wanted porn I would go to that site.
December 1, 2019
Watch the sparks fly in this forced mating.
September 10, 2015
He was hot-damn sexy. 5 RED-HOT STARS
She was curvy and voluptuous, just the way I like ‘em. WOWOHWOWOHWOW! WHOA! Now this is one dark, deep, naughty, intense and oh so very amazing story!! Crude, dirty talk from the cocky, arrogant, extremely Bad Boy Alpha who I couldn't decide whether to smack him or jump him. (Okay, I would really smack him and THEN jump him!) Sass & sarcasm from the strong but damaged Darkling Wolf who could hold her own, wasn't afraid to ask for what (or who) she wants. Even though they are both smart people, they sure got played by a loved one! LOL I don't even know where or how to begin to tell you just why I LOVED this book so effen much!! Let's just say that there are many attributes that I look for in my stories and Linda has them all covered: smoking hot shifter, beautiful woman comfortable not being a toothpick, humor, hot HOT moments - LOTS of hot moments, romance, intrigue, friendship, betrayal, heartbreak, just to give you a hint of what you may find in these pages. Of course, the most important draw for me is being able to BECOME the story, being able to become one with the characters, seeing, hearing, smelling, feeling for & with them, seeing the landscape in your mind's eye... Those are some of my key ingredients to a WOLFERRIFIC story and while together that may all sound ambitious, with Linda's extraordinary gift it becomes a FANGTASTIC & WOLFDERFUL story that is next to impossible to put down! I have read the other 2 books that Linda has written involving these unique shifters (The Zrakon’s Bride and The Zrakon’s Curse), and while I loved them both - A TON - I was utterly and completely blown away by this one! I read almost all of it in one go because it was so DARKLY FANGTABULOUS!! The ingenuity of Linda's paranormal world with its cast of characters, the histories, the rules & laws, traits, abilities & characteristics are so unique and utterly PAWMAZING & WOLFTASTIC!! I am not always a fan of the first person dialogue with the story being told from more than one person, but in this case it works so PAWFECTLY!! I loved being able to see things from Cade’s point of view, almost even more than from Jess’s! With Linda's gift it actually enhances & increases the captivating & mesmerizing factors to the story which allows, actually pulls, the reader to sink even deeper into the storyline, to the point of being consumed by it! Linda is one magnificently & phenomenally talented author whose books hold me captive long after I have finished them and this one is no different!! This is a MUST-READ for every reader who loves the bad boy, loves a strong female lead, loves the thrill of shifters, the pull of intrigue & mystery, a steamy hot romance and one FANTABULOUSLY written story that grabs you and doesn’t let you go!! Linda Barlow has been one of my favorite authors ever since I read the blurb for The Zrakon’s Bride, never mind the entire book, so I am confident in saying that she will very quickly become one of your favorite authors as well!
She was curvy and voluptuous, just the way I like ‘em. WOWOHWOWOHWOW! WHOA! Now this is one dark, deep, naughty, intense and oh so very amazing story!! Crude, dirty talk from the cocky, arrogant, extremely Bad Boy Alpha who I couldn't decide whether to smack him or jump him. (Okay, I would really smack him and THEN jump him!) Sass & sarcasm from the strong but damaged Darkling Wolf who could hold her own, wasn't afraid to ask for what (or who) she wants. Even though they are both smart people, they sure got played by a loved one! LOL I don't even know where or how to begin to tell you just why I LOVED this book so effen much!! Let's just say that there are many attributes that I look for in my stories and Linda has them all covered: smoking hot shifter, beautiful woman comfortable not being a toothpick, humor, hot HOT moments - LOTS of hot moments, romance, intrigue, friendship, betrayal, heartbreak, just to give you a hint of what you may find in these pages. Of course, the most important draw for me is being able to BECOME the story, being able to become one with the characters, seeing, hearing, smelling, feeling for & with them, seeing the landscape in your mind's eye... Those are some of my key ingredients to a WOLFERRIFIC story and while together that may all sound ambitious, with Linda's extraordinary gift it becomes a FANGTASTIC & WOLFDERFUL story that is next to impossible to put down! I have read the other 2 books that Linda has written involving these unique shifters (The Zrakon’s Bride and The Zrakon’s Curse), and while I loved them both - A TON - I was utterly and completely blown away by this one! I read almost all of it in one go because it was so DARKLY FANGTABULOUS!! The ingenuity of Linda's paranormal world with its cast of characters, the histories, the rules & laws, traits, abilities & characteristics are so unique and utterly PAWMAZING & WOLFTASTIC!! I am not always a fan of the first person dialogue with the story being told from more than one person, but in this case it works so PAWFECTLY!! I loved being able to see things from Cade’s point of view, almost even more than from Jess’s! With Linda's gift it actually enhances & increases the captivating & mesmerizing factors to the story which allows, actually pulls, the reader to sink even deeper into the storyline, to the point of being consumed by it! Linda is one magnificently & phenomenally talented author whose books hold me captive long after I have finished them and this one is no different!! This is a MUST-READ for every reader who loves the bad boy, loves a strong female lead, loves the thrill of shifters, the pull of intrigue & mystery, a steamy hot romance and one FANTABULOUSLY written story that grabs you and doesn’t let you go!! Linda Barlow has been one of my favorite authors ever since I read the blurb for The Zrakon’s Bride, never mind the entire book, so I am confident in saying that she will very quickly become one of your favorite authors as well!
September 11, 2015
I received this book as a arc for my honest opinion.
Alpha's darkling is a shifter book like no other. I have never read a book like this. That's a great thing. So this book is about Jess Malloch she us from a long line of multi shifter who can turn into more than one creature. Jess is rare even among them. She is a wolf/darkling. Most think of them as vampires.
After her father died her mother moved them to a pack in Scotland where Jess was bullied and later attacked by her stepbrother. What he forgot when he tied her up and was going to rape her is she's half Darkling. Her darkling came out and killed him. Even though her darkling protected her Jess is now scared of herself. Her mother wants her to marry jess's second cousin cam who is also a wolf/darkling, Jess wants nothing to do with it, cause hello gross. So Jess leaves Scotland to move in with her dad's father Tom. Tom is a wolf shifter who lives in the Rocky Mountains.
After Jess moves in she start to notice he has had a cold for weeks now and us not getting better. One night while driving home a couple of guys on motorcycles came flying down the road, which startled Tom who then lost control. Her darkling saved her, but her grandfather wasn't so lucky. Another motorcycle they almost hit stopped to help them. Turns out it was the Alpha Cade Derringer. Once they stop yelling they get top to the hospital.
Cade can't believe how bad he wants Jess. Even though his friend is in the hospital. He wants Tom's granddaughter like nothing before. Jess finds out that not only is cade really close friends to her grandfather, but her grandfather was dying. His cold wasn't a cold. The cancer he told her was gone never was.
After Tom dies, Jess is just trying to make it through the day, taking it one day at a time.
Time to read the will. Old Tom was about to give them both a huge suprise. They had a choice to make get married and stay married for 6 months,that means live together, have sex everything a married couple does or the land,house everything they both loves gets sold and money donated. They get nothing. So the question is do they get married, can Jess ever let go of the fear. Oh add in some wolf is killing humans, you have the prefect shifter book. I absolutely enjoyed every second of this book. It pulled me in and now I crave more by Linda Barlow. It's the prefect blend of sexy,funny,scary,sad,hot,alphaness. This book is going down as one of my top 5 shifter books of all time. I've never read anything by Linda Barlow before and now I'm kicking myself. Her writing is awesome. This a full length novel. Normally when they are novels it hard to keep people reading, but not this one. I couldn't have asked for a better book. It is a honor to have been able to read this.
MUST READ NOW TODAY RIGHT THIS SECOND, FORGET EVERYTHING ELSE AND READ THIS BOOK
Alpha's darkling is a shifter book like no other. I have never read a book like this. That's a great thing. So this book is about Jess Malloch she us from a long line of multi shifter who can turn into more than one creature. Jess is rare even among them. She is a wolf/darkling. Most think of them as vampires.
After her father died her mother moved them to a pack in Scotland where Jess was bullied and later attacked by her stepbrother. What he forgot when he tied her up and was going to rape her is she's half Darkling. Her darkling came out and killed him. Even though her darkling protected her Jess is now scared of herself. Her mother wants her to marry jess's second cousin cam who is also a wolf/darkling, Jess wants nothing to do with it, cause hello gross. So Jess leaves Scotland to move in with her dad's father Tom. Tom is a wolf shifter who lives in the Rocky Mountains.
After Jess moves in she start to notice he has had a cold for weeks now and us not getting better. One night while driving home a couple of guys on motorcycles came flying down the road, which startled Tom who then lost control. Her darkling saved her, but her grandfather wasn't so lucky. Another motorcycle they almost hit stopped to help them. Turns out it was the Alpha Cade Derringer. Once they stop yelling they get top to the hospital.
Cade can't believe how bad he wants Jess. Even though his friend is in the hospital. He wants Tom's granddaughter like nothing before. Jess finds out that not only is cade really close friends to her grandfather, but her grandfather was dying. His cold wasn't a cold. The cancer he told her was gone never was.
After Tom dies, Jess is just trying to make it through the day, taking it one day at a time.
Time to read the will. Old Tom was about to give them both a huge suprise. They had a choice to make get married and stay married for 6 months,that means live together, have sex everything a married couple does or the land,house everything they both loves gets sold and money donated. They get nothing. So the question is do they get married, can Jess ever let go of the fear. Oh add in some wolf is killing humans, you have the prefect shifter book. I absolutely enjoyed every second of this book. It pulled me in and now I crave more by Linda Barlow. It's the prefect blend of sexy,funny,scary,sad,hot,alphaness. This book is going down as one of my top 5 shifter books of all time. I've never read anything by Linda Barlow before and now I'm kicking myself. Her writing is awesome. This a full length novel. Normally when they are novels it hard to keep people reading, but not this one. I couldn't have asked for a better book. It is a honor to have been able to read this.
MUST READ NOW TODAY RIGHT THIS SECOND, FORGET EVERYTHING ELSE AND READ THIS BOOK
September 14, 2015
Jess is a multiform shifter originally from Whittier, Montana but after the death of her father she and her mother moved back to Scotland where her mother was born. They did not have a good experience living with the shifters there. Jess' mom hooked up with a creep that put her mom down, while Jess was being terrorized by her own sadistic wolf, Jonathan. This guy was pathetic and way jealous of Jess in her wolf form because she was more powerful than him, he'd torture and kill animals and leave them for her and threatened to kill her dog if she didn't sleep with him. Luckily, Jess told her mom and whatever trance that had been cast on her mom to allow what was happening to them snapped and her mom got them out of there. But, the punishments dished out left a lasting mark on Jess and her ability to trust in shifting into either of her forms. Jess can shift into a sable wolf and a darkling. And, because of Jonathan she is afraid to let her darkling loose, afraid of what she might do. Jess' mom tried to set up a marriage with a second cousin, Jess ain't having that so she leaves Scotland and return to Montana to live with her paternal grandfather.
Unfortunately, her homecoming is spoiled by an accident that lands her grandfather in the hospital and some things come to light for Jess. Like her grandfather lied to her about his cancer being in remission and that he is dying. At the same time, an Alpha drops into Jess' lap. The Bad Boy Alpha, Cade Derringer the last person she would've expected to be Alpha. Cade was the black sheep growing up in comparison to the golden child that was his older brother, Aaron. Aaron was killed in a bar shootout. Cade's father named him his successor and a pack vote made him Alpha. Cade also has a reputation as a "dog" with the ladies and he can't wait to get Jess into his bed. Cade was involved in a race with two other bikers, and they startled Jess and her grandfather and when they swerve to avoid Cade-boom!! accident. Cade comes to the rescue and gives Jess his cell to call the for help and comes to visit at the hospital to check on his condition. Cade happens to be good friends with her grandfather and has been told a lot about Jess.
Terrible new, Jess' grandfather dies and it was so heartbreaking, I was tearing up at that part. In his will, he stipulates that Cade and Jess must marry for at 6 months-he gives Cade the land and Jess the house. Both Cade and Jess strongly object, but they both promised not to challenge the will so they get married thinking in 6 months they could go their separate ways, but things rarely go the way you think. This book was super great and if I've hooked you so far then you have to get this boo
Unfortunately, her homecoming is spoiled by an accident that lands her grandfather in the hospital and some things come to light for Jess. Like her grandfather lied to her about his cancer being in remission and that he is dying. At the same time, an Alpha drops into Jess' lap. The Bad Boy Alpha, Cade Derringer the last person she would've expected to be Alpha. Cade was the black sheep growing up in comparison to the golden child that was his older brother, Aaron. Aaron was killed in a bar shootout. Cade's father named him his successor and a pack vote made him Alpha. Cade also has a reputation as a "dog" with the ladies and he can't wait to get Jess into his bed. Cade was involved in a race with two other bikers, and they startled Jess and her grandfather and when they swerve to avoid Cade-boom!! accident. Cade comes to the rescue and gives Jess his cell to call the for help and comes to visit at the hospital to check on his condition. Cade happens to be good friends with her grandfather and has been told a lot about Jess.
Terrible new, Jess' grandfather dies and it was so heartbreaking, I was tearing up at that part. In his will, he stipulates that Cade and Jess must marry for at 6 months-he gives Cade the land and Jess the house. Both Cade and Jess strongly object, but they both promised not to challenge the will so they get married thinking in 6 months they could go their separate ways, but things rarely go the way you think. This book was super great and if I've hooked you so far then you have to get this boo
September 9, 2015
Alpha’s Darkling Bride is a beautifully exquisite and breathtakingly magical story of learning how to love all aspects of yourself. This is a story that will tear down all of your stubborn and resilient walls and allow true and lasting acceptance to break through. Even while written in shifter lore, the light from within this journey will find a way to shine into your own soul. The astounding characters prove over and over just how powerful we can become if we will only choose to cherish and love all aspects of who we are. We are all made with such beauty and care that each of us serves a very specific and unique purpose. The human race isn’t complete without every last being on this planet.
Jess has lived through a horrific past which has left her deeply scarred and fearful of not only others but also herself. She has uncovered revelations about herself that she doesn’t understand and has no idea how to deal with. All she wants to do is find refuge within the unconditional love and welcoming arms of her grandfather. However, her time of peace is cut short when tragedy strikes and she is forced to start over with a new life filled with every type of frustration and confusion that she has desperately tried to avoid. Will her life-altering change be her saving grace in disguise, or will it finally prove that she will never belong and be forever resigned to a life where she will never find peace?
Life doesn’t always give us what we want, but it does give us what we need. We just have to decide if we will gracefully accept it or stubbornly refuse it and hope for the best. I love how even when Jess thought her life was on the road to complete and utter failure she was exactly where she needed to be. Even in the most unlikely person on the plant – Cade – she was able to find her perfect refuge along with the acceptance and love she needed in order to find her inner peace and balance. Cade also found in Jess the contentment and the purpose that he has been blindly searching for since his brother’s death. They both helped to fill a dark and deep void within the other that literally turned them away from the brink of their own personal abyss.
Linda Barlow has woven a truly magnificent tapestry of rich and vibrant characters that blend in perfectly with the extraordinary landscape that is the incredible storyline. I feel hopelessly in love with both elements as I was drawn deeper and pulled relentlessly into the beautifully broken souls of Cade and Jess. Barlow has managed to expertly capture my attention while thoroughly enthralling my heart into her incredible world of magic and shifters. I can’t wait to see what incredible work of art she creates next.
Jess has lived through a horrific past which has left her deeply scarred and fearful of not only others but also herself. She has uncovered revelations about herself that she doesn’t understand and has no idea how to deal with. All she wants to do is find refuge within the unconditional love and welcoming arms of her grandfather. However, her time of peace is cut short when tragedy strikes and she is forced to start over with a new life filled with every type of frustration and confusion that she has desperately tried to avoid. Will her life-altering change be her saving grace in disguise, or will it finally prove that she will never belong and be forever resigned to a life where she will never find peace?
Life doesn’t always give us what we want, but it does give us what we need. We just have to decide if we will gracefully accept it or stubbornly refuse it and hope for the best. I love how even when Jess thought her life was on the road to complete and utter failure she was exactly where she needed to be. Even in the most unlikely person on the plant – Cade – she was able to find her perfect refuge along with the acceptance and love she needed in order to find her inner peace and balance. Cade also found in Jess the contentment and the purpose that he has been blindly searching for since his brother’s death. They both helped to fill a dark and deep void within the other that literally turned them away from the brink of their own personal abyss.
Linda Barlow has woven a truly magnificent tapestry of rich and vibrant characters that blend in perfectly with the extraordinary landscape that is the incredible storyline. I feel hopelessly in love with both elements as I was drawn deeper and pulled relentlessly into the beautifully broken souls of Cade and Jess. Barlow has managed to expertly capture my attention while thoroughly enthralling my heart into her incredible world of magic and shifters. I can’t wait to see what incredible work of art she creates next.
September 12, 2015
Linda Barlow always does such an amazing job on her books. I found that the way she done this one very interesting. I have read of a characters before that could shift in two different forms before, but not like this. Linda took a different and very interesting approach to it. Great job Linda.
Jess MacLeish was so unique, she was from a very power family of Highland shifters. Not only that but she had not only her human and wolf form but also her Darkling form. I felt so sorry for Jess. How awful it must of been to fear shifting because you were scared that the Darkling side would come out. The Darkling was like a vampire. It was her dark side and it craved blood. She feared of what or who it would hurt or kill. Jess how so much hurt from her past. She need not only help to except who she was but she need inward healing as well.
Had to love sexy Cade Derringer. Just his smile and his sexy voice made the women’s panties melt. He was the alpha of the Whitter wolf pack. He was true bad boy and loved his women. He had plan on never settling down, but one thing he knew for sure was that he wanted to have some fun with Jess. One thing I love about Cade was his love for his pack and compassion he had to help others. He is truly what you would like to read about for an Alpha and a mate.
Got to love Grandpa Tom. He had not only his granddaughter in mind but also his alpha. He loved the both of them very much. he decided he was going to play match maker from the grave. Now Cade and Jess would have to marry and live together in grandpa’s house for 6 months, conditions of the “Will”. Will Jess be able to keep her dark side hidden? Will they be able to keep not having feelings for each other? Will Jess end up kill Cade in his sleep?
Through out the book there was a couple of characters I did not like, but I have to say that by the end of the book my heart broke for one of them. I can not imagine going thru that kind of pain. Want to know more, well read the book.
There is a murder loose and danger seems to not be far, will Cade be able to catch the murder before it is to late?
There is a lot going on in this book. I received this book for free for an honest review. Trust me when I say Linda will not disappoint.
Jess MacLeish was so unique, she was from a very power family of Highland shifters. Not only that but she had not only her human and wolf form but also her Darkling form. I felt so sorry for Jess. How awful it must of been to fear shifting because you were scared that the Darkling side would come out. The Darkling was like a vampire. It was her dark side and it craved blood. She feared of what or who it would hurt or kill. Jess how so much hurt from her past. She need not only help to except who she was but she need inward healing as well.
Had to love sexy Cade Derringer. Just his smile and his sexy voice made the women’s panties melt. He was the alpha of the Whitter wolf pack. He was true bad boy and loved his women. He had plan on never settling down, but one thing he knew for sure was that he wanted to have some fun with Jess. One thing I love about Cade was his love for his pack and compassion he had to help others. He is truly what you would like to read about for an Alpha and a mate.
Got to love Grandpa Tom. He had not only his granddaughter in mind but also his alpha. He loved the both of them very much. he decided he was going to play match maker from the grave. Now Cade and Jess would have to marry and live together in grandpa’s house for 6 months, conditions of the “Will”. Will Jess be able to keep her dark side hidden? Will they be able to keep not having feelings for each other? Will Jess end up kill Cade in his sleep?
Through out the book there was a couple of characters I did not like, but I have to say that by the end of the book my heart broke for one of them. I can not imagine going thru that kind of pain. Want to know more, well read the book.
There is a murder loose and danger seems to not be far, will Cade be able to catch the murder before it is to late?
There is a lot going on in this book. I received this book for free for an honest review. Trust me when I say Linda will not disappoint.
September 10, 2015
Jess MacLeish left Scotland and went to America fleeing her mother’s schemes to married her to Cameron Malloch, her second cousin. He was a multiform shifter and like her his second form was a darkling. A darling was a very rare and feared form and she was very scare of hers because she can’t control it and the darkling kills. She went to Montana looking for her grandfather’s protection but instead she found that he had his own agenda and had decided her fate. His protection was in the form of the alpha wolf Cade Derringer, leader of his pack, and he stated in his will what he wanted they to do and therefore, bonding them. Cade was still doubting his potential for leading his pack but he had to honor his word and maybe it would not be bad because he really was attracted to luscious Jess. He thought that he could not meet his pack expectations for a leader and was everyday was hard to him. Aaron, his brother which was expected to be the leader, was dead and he had been the golden son and Cade the wicked one. So, Cade had lived as everybody expected the bad one did. Now, he had a partner, Jess, a strong and feisty woman beside him and he could not let her go regardless of her dark side. Despite Jess fears with her dark side, she was a strong character glad and confident with her physical appearance. The chemistry between Jess and Cade was there from the beginning and in spite both knew the truth about their attraction were they still fighting it. The sex was steamy hot and the descriptions detailed. When things went bad Jess had to make a hard decision because it was her only chance to both of them survive. This was a very interesting story. I had read both The Zrakon’s Bride and the Zrakon’s Curse and had much curiosity about the darkling (the vampire). It was mentioned but not elaborated. In this story, that I hope Cam’s come next, I had the opportunity to know about it. Loved the developed and the action. The darkling kept me in suspense and I was very satisfy with the outcome of the story. Worth the wait for this third book.
Received the ARC for an honest review
Received the ARC for an honest review
September 14, 2015
Alpha's Drakling Bride: A Bad Boy Alpha Romance
By Linda Barlow
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received this ARC to read and give a honest review.
OMG! This is the fourth book in the Bad Boy Alpha Series that feature several different authors. I have read all four books now and can say that Ms. Barlow book is a AWESOME addition to the series. Ms. Barlow imagination and talent for writing is exceptional and it's a godsend for her to use said talent with the world for our entertainment. She is a true storyteller that uses her words to perfection. Ms.Barlow’s latest, “Alpha’s Darkling Bride storyline combines the stories of werewolves and vampires that makes another delightful heroine a Darkling. This storyline is fascinating, exciting, compelling, scorching HOT and steamy sexy. The characters are awesome, fully recognizable, easy to relate too, realistic, and lovable.
Jess moves from Scotland back to Montana hoping to give herself less stress. But after going into town with her grandfather on the way back to his ranch they were involved in a accident that seriously injures her grandfather. Jess then learns that her grandfather is dying from cancer. Jess is mad and turns her anger on Cade the alpha. Cade spends a lot of time with her grandfather at the hospital and she doesn't like it but on the other hand she feels her attraction for him. Before her grandfather died he asked them both to give him a promise, Jess was mad but not at her grandfather but at Cade she thought he asked her grandfather for the land. But they both was in for a surprise at the reading of her grandfather's will.
Jess is a multi shifter she is a Wolf and Darkling and she is afraid to shift because she can't control what she shift into. At the reading Jess and Cade found out that they had to get married and stay married for six months. Jess was scared and mad because of the sexual attraction between her and Cade; they both had a past stories that added to their situation. They had no idea that they were fated mates. There are twists and turns, suspense, evil wolves But you will be glue to the book until you finish.
A MUST READ!!
.
By Linda Barlow
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received this ARC to read and give a honest review.
OMG! This is the fourth book in the Bad Boy Alpha Series that feature several different authors. I have read all four books now and can say that Ms. Barlow book is a AWESOME addition to the series. Ms. Barlow imagination and talent for writing is exceptional and it's a godsend for her to use said talent with the world for our entertainment. She is a true storyteller that uses her words to perfection. Ms.Barlow’s latest, “Alpha’s Darkling Bride storyline combines the stories of werewolves and vampires that makes another delightful heroine a Darkling. This storyline is fascinating, exciting, compelling, scorching HOT and steamy sexy. The characters are awesome, fully recognizable, easy to relate too, realistic, and lovable.
Jess moves from Scotland back to Montana hoping to give herself less stress. But after going into town with her grandfather on the way back to his ranch they were involved in a accident that seriously injures her grandfather. Jess then learns that her grandfather is dying from cancer. Jess is mad and turns her anger on Cade the alpha. Cade spends a lot of time with her grandfather at the hospital and she doesn't like it but on the other hand she feels her attraction for him. Before her grandfather died he asked them both to give him a promise, Jess was mad but not at her grandfather but at Cade she thought he asked her grandfather for the land. But they both was in for a surprise at the reading of her grandfather's will.
Jess is a multi shifter she is a Wolf and Darkling and she is afraid to shift because she can't control what she shift into. At the reading Jess and Cade found out that they had to get married and stay married for six months. Jess was scared and mad because of the sexual attraction between her and Cade; they both had a past stories that added to their situation. They had no idea that they were fated mates. There are twists and turns, suspense, evil wolves But you will be glue to the book until you finish.
A MUST READ!!
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September 9, 2015
Ms Barlow is a new author for me and the title intrigued me. I was offered an ARC for an honest review.
I can honestly say this is a great read! It hooked me right from the start and I spend a sleepless night because I could not put it down. Jess and Cade meet after an accident with her grandfather, his friend, and yes, she has shifted and returned to human form—naked. He is very concerned about his friend, however she is also distracting.
A promise from granddaughter and friend turns out to be much more than anticipated. Yep, they agree to a six month marriage – a real living together and all that includes – before they can separate. While the reward is great, they would never do it if it were not for their feelings for the old man.
Cade likes the idea of having her at his Alpha beck and call sexually and although reluctant to admit that isn't her biggest concern. She has secrets. Deep, dark secrets she ran from Scotland to America to escape. The only problem is some of those secrets are a part of her she can never escape.
Cade has his own issues with leadership duties, familial history and responsibilities as well as loyalty issues with the pack. Taking on a wife is more than he wanted to assume. But the benefits, his loyalty to his friend, plus there is something about Jess that makes him want to protect her not just have her. Her secrets intrigue him and he plans to learn what they are.
The struggle to accept herself, the love they begin to share and the issues they both must deal with make their emotional growth intriguing to watch. While he is a badboy, as the country song by Tim McGraw, I MAY BE A REAL BADBOY, BUT BABY, I'M A REAL GOOD MAN, was written for Cade, dirty-talking, expert lover and a good person under it all. And Jess, is a strong woman to have her history and come through as the woman she is.
This is a 5 star strong recommend from me.
October 6, 2015
I first read Linda Barlow in an anthology and found this book as I explored her other books. It is a great standalone with an HEA, though the two books at the end preceed it chronologically and provide background for Jess, the female lead.
Jess, a multiform shifter with Scottish mother and American father, has returned to her grandfather's ranch in Montana from Scotland to get away from her mother's attempts to marry her off to Cameron, another multiform shifter and her second cousin. She soon learns, however, that her grandfather, a wolf shifter, has been keeping secrets when they are involved in an accident and he is hospitalized. Before he dies, he alludes to debts and extracts a promise from her not to contest his will.
Cade is Tom's Alpha and long time friend. Jess remembers him from her childhood as the black sheep of his family. His father was Alpha and his older brother was expected to follow as Alpha. But after their deaths, Cade was chosen to lead his pack, winning over another contender, Brandon. Cade's ranch adjoins Tom's and he has made an offer to buy Tom's land. Tom also gains his promise not to contest his will.
When Tom's will is read, both Cade and Jess are present, both stunned. Tom has left his ranch and home to both of them. But to claim it, they will have to marry and stay married for six months. Otherwise the ranch will be sold to a land developer and the proceeds will be donated. Both promised to follow his wishes, never expecting to be snared in an arranged marriage. For Jess it's out of the frying pan and into the fire. For Cade it a win win-sex with an end date. But Jess has secrets of her own.
Jess, a multiform shifter with Scottish mother and American father, has returned to her grandfather's ranch in Montana from Scotland to get away from her mother's attempts to marry her off to Cameron, another multiform shifter and her second cousin. She soon learns, however, that her grandfather, a wolf shifter, has been keeping secrets when they are involved in an accident and he is hospitalized. Before he dies, he alludes to debts and extracts a promise from her not to contest his will.
Cade is Tom's Alpha and long time friend. Jess remembers him from her childhood as the black sheep of his family. His father was Alpha and his older brother was expected to follow as Alpha. But after their deaths, Cade was chosen to lead his pack, winning over another contender, Brandon. Cade's ranch adjoins Tom's and he has made an offer to buy Tom's land. Tom also gains his promise not to contest his will.
When Tom's will is read, both Cade and Jess are present, both stunned. Tom has left his ranch and home to both of them. But to claim it, they will have to marry and stay married for six months. Otherwise the ranch will be sold to a land developer and the proceeds will be donated. Both promised to follow his wishes, never expecting to be snared in an arranged marriage. For Jess it's out of the frying pan and into the fire. For Cade it a win win-sex with an end date. But Jess has secrets of her own.
September 9, 2015
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. WOW what a great read. From the beginning of the story Linda Barlow captures you and brings you into the story. Jess is a multiform shifter and has returned to live with her Grandfather in Montana. Jess's grandfather is dying from cancer. Her grandfather makes Jess and Cade promise not to challenge his will and to agree to what he asks in the attached letter. To receive their parts of his estate Cade and Jess must marry and stay married for six months. They agree because of the promise they made to her grandfather. Cade is the Alpha of her father’s wold pack. Jess is a multi shifter - she shifts to both a wolf and a darkling. The story is about how Jess and Cade adapt and adjust to begin married as they get to know each other. The one positive from the beginning of their marriage is the great sex . Linda has written some very hot and steamy sex scenes between Cade and Jess. Cade finds out that Jess refuses to shift and it has a lot to do with what happened to her in Scotland. He helps her adjust an accept herself and her two shifter forms. This is a story of loss, betrayal, acceptance and love. Are Jess and Cade able to overcome their problems or will they divorce in six months? You need to read the story to see the surprises, the questions that are answered at the end of the book. I highly recommend this book you will not be disappointed by this great shifter story.
September 10, 2015
"Suspenseful,funny and hot!"
Love Love these Bad Boy Alpha books!
Every book I have read in this series has been amazing!. Each one has had incredible suspense,action, super amazing steamy romance.
Jess is a special wolf shifter. She can shift from human to wolf to a darkling. The darkling is a ferocious winged humanoids with no moral code who hungers for blood like a vampire. This darkling shift comes from her Mothers side in Scotland. Sense she is a multishifter her mother tries to mate her off to Jess's cousin who is one to. Jess does not want to mate him so she goes to live with her Grandfather on her Fathers side in Montana on his ranch. Jess was raised there till her Father died when she was thirteen. Her Grandfather had been having a battle with cancer but was supposed to be in remission. Her Grandfather is a wolf shifter. One day on the way back to the ranch from town her Grandfather is driving odd way to fast for their winding road. When a couple of motorcycles coming facing them must have spooked him . He almost hits another motorcycle but ends up crashing their SUV. Jess ends up ok thanks to her darkling but her Grandfather is almost killed. The biker he almost hit turns out to be his Bad Boy Alpha and best friend Cade Derringer. Cade and Jess get a shock when they learn her Grandfathers dying request!. Wow you can not help but love this book with its spine-tingling suspense, action,humor and scorching hot hot romance! It is a must read book!
Love Love these Bad Boy Alpha books!
Every book I have read in this series has been amazing!. Each one has had incredible suspense,action, super amazing steamy romance.
Jess is a special wolf shifter. She can shift from human to wolf to a darkling. The darkling is a ferocious winged humanoids with no moral code who hungers for blood like a vampire. This darkling shift comes from her Mothers side in Scotland. Sense she is a multishifter her mother tries to mate her off to Jess's cousin who is one to. Jess does not want to mate him so she goes to live with her Grandfather on her Fathers side in Montana on his ranch. Jess was raised there till her Father died when she was thirteen. Her Grandfather had been having a battle with cancer but was supposed to be in remission. Her Grandfather is a wolf shifter. One day on the way back to the ranch from town her Grandfather is driving odd way to fast for their winding road. When a couple of motorcycles coming facing them must have spooked him . He almost hits another motorcycle but ends up crashing their SUV. Jess ends up ok thanks to her darkling but her Grandfather is almost killed. The biker he almost hit turns out to be his Bad Boy Alpha and best friend Cade Derringer. Cade and Jess get a shock when they learn her Grandfathers dying request!. Wow you can not help but love this book with its spine-tingling suspense, action,humor and scorching hot hot romance! It is a must read book!
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