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Woodland Creek

The Beast Within

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Passion ignites and pasts collide, when the beast comes out to play"

Trapped in an abusive relationship for two years, leaving could prove deadly for Becca Kian. But when she’s pushed a step too far, Becca has no choice but to flee. After an accident that leaves her unconscious, Becca wakes to find herself in the cabin of a man who’s as entrancing as he is dangerous. Because this man makes her want to dream — dream of a world where Alex Scar doesn’t exist.
Both Minotaur and human, Aster Tavros is a shifter in hiding. Living in Woodland Creek, he’s made no effort to form relationships, too afraid to allow others to see his true nature. Because when they do, they run. Yet when Becca comes crashing into his life, he ignores every one of his rules. Passion ignites between them, but when secrets and pasts collide, Aster has a choice. He can hide his identity, or reveal his true self to save Becca, all the while, risking losing her forever…

138 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 15, 2015

15 people are currently reading
140 people want to read

About the author

Rachel M. Raithby

18 books341 followers
Rachel M. Raithby started her writing career in 2013 and hasn’t looked back. She draws her inspiration from the many places she has lived and traveled, as well as from her love of the paranormal and thriller movies. She can often be found hiding out with a good book or writing more fast-paced and thrilling stories where love always conquers all. A Brit who has lived in many places, she now resides in a small town in New Zealand, with her dog, three cats and four children.

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5 stars
40 (43%)
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22 (23%)
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19 (20%)
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9 (9%)
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Alwaysreadingbooks - Reading Drinking and Relaxing.
661 reviews15 followers
November 16, 2015
I have this fascination with Rachel and her books and I have yet to read one that I didn't like. I loved the story of Aster and Becca and the way that things played out. I loved the whole Alpha male thing that Aster had going on. I loved the fact that when it came down to it Becca showed the strength that she had. There was never a dull moment in this book and the ending was perfect.
Profile Image for Marsha Keeper Bookshelf.
4,290 reviews88 followers
December 31, 2015
Originally reviewed at Haunted Bookshelf

Aster has hidden in the outskirts of Woodland Creek. Here no one ask questions he doesn’t want to answer. He’s aware that he’s not the only shifter in this small town, but he feels no need to invite anyone else into his life. His beast is all too often very close to the surface. The overwhelming desire and need to find his mate is partly why Aster is now in hiding. Yet, when he shows his true self others run in fear. So while his beast tries to take control to find their mate, Aster resists knowing that should that mate run from him, he would be lost forever.

Becca’s life has always been rough. In the foster care system as a young girl, she barely manages to stay in the last foster family until she turned 18. The roving hands of the man who was supposed to protect her finally made the decision to hit the streets much easier. She thought she’d found a man to care for her – and realized far too late that his kind of love was merely a prison from which she would long to escape. When that final last straw happens, Becca takes her lost courage in hand and runs as far as she can – until destiny runs her off the road and into the arms of Aster.

The motorcycle came from out of nowhere and before Aster could hit the brakes the bike and its rider had hit the pavement hard. As he runs to help the rider, Aster comes face to face with his mate. An angry mate who doesn’t back down from telling him what an idiot he is before she passes out. As he helps Becca heal from her physical wounds, Aster must find a way to heal the inner wounds that Becca never allows anyone to see.

His desire to protect wars with his fear that she will run from him when she knows what he really is… and neither he nor his beast will let that happen.

The Beast Within shares the story of a creature of mythology. As a minotaur shifter, Aster knows that revealing himself to anyone is dangerous. Yet, Becca is his mate and even though she holds secrets of her own, he is determined to keep her at his side, safe forever.

This story is a tender revealing tale of two wounded souls who are exactly what the other needs, but each is afraid to trust. The desire between Becca and Aster is off the charts hot and steamy – and slowly Becca begins to lose some of her now natural fear of the future. She knows that there are monsters in the world and one is looking for her right now. But for the moment she is content to stay with Aster and hope for a different future.

I enjoyed this story very much. A different spin on the shifter type, but Aster was an excellent character who keeps his dual selves in check, for the most part. Becca is a strong woman, she might not realize it but Aster sees her strength and her stubbornness. They are indeed a perfect match for each other.

If you enjoy shifter Paranormal Romances then both The Beast Within and the Woodland Creek Collection that it is a part of should be on your “to be read” list.
Profile Image for Tamye Whitener.
852 reviews27 followers
November 15, 2015
Rating: 5 ✩✩✩✩✩

This is the first book I’ve read by this author, but it most definitely won’t be the last. It should be packaged with the following label. “WARNING! Nothing will be done, food prepared, fires put out, etc. Until the reader has completed the final chapter.” Because that’s what will happen.

I had no idea what to expect from this book. I accepted it as an ARC for my blog, so I knew the blurb must have interested me, because I’ve severely cut down the amount of books I take in to review. My TBR short list, is a mile long. But when I downloaded the book to my Kindle, I was clueless in what to expect.

I read the first paragraph and BAM I was hooked. Breakfast and lunch were made and consumed while reading. I might have burnt something. I was enraptured. The pacing was perfect which kept me turning the pages, having to find out what happened next. The characters were well fleshed. In Aster’s case extremely well fleshed. He and his beast are so going on my Book Boyfriend list. And Becca makes me want to alternately hug her close, or shake some self confidence and self worth into her. I love that the main characters have to grow in some way before they are able to accept each other. They are not perfect people, but you want to root for them and cheer them on, when they finally realize, that they don’t have to be perfect to be loved..

This book touched me on many levels. I look forward to exploring more books by this author. I would recommend this book to anyone who like paranormal shifter romances.

Disclaimer: This book was given to me for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kat.
969 reviews32 followers
December 1, 2015

*** Gifted in exchange for an honest review***

This is a great idea for a collection of Novella's - separate books but all set in the same town of "Woodland Creek", with 30 authors all writing about this small town in Indiana USA, When Rachel said she had signed up I was intrigued how this would all tie in.

The Beast Within is the first story from the collection I read, and Rachel did a great job of pulling me in and wanting more after I had finished.

Rachel started this story off with a BANG! both characters have it rough at the beginning, Becca has hit rock bottom, but she is made of strong stuff, and escapes her abusive boyfriend to the town of Woodland Creek, she didn't intend to stay, but Aster knocking her off her motorbike made it a pit stop that would serve her well.

With a novella you do not get many words to create a lot of detail, but Rachel has created two very strong characters, and some amazingly intense scenes, the sizzle factor is there and its action packed to the end.

I would actually love it if Rachel would evolve this novella into a full blown novel, the characters were so full of possibilities!

I was lucky to beta read this book, and loved it more and more as the revisions came in.

I have a few more of the "Woodland Creek" Novellas to read, and I look forward to giving my thoughts on those soon.
Profile Image for Kristy.
680 reviews
November 8, 2015
I received an ARC of "The Beast Within" from the author, in exchange for an honest review.

I absolutely LOVED Rachel's previous books, so I jumped on the chance to read this ARC. But not only that I was intrigued with the concept behind this collection, the "Woodland Creek" collection is a collaboration of 30 authors all writing about 1 little town in Indiana USA... I couldn't wait to read what Rachel had come up with for this.

Boy she didn't dissappoint! From the very first line I was sucked into this story, it was EVERYTHING (underlined 3 times) I've come to expect from Rachel, strong characters, heart felt scenes, steamy in the right places, action packed. How Becca & Aster interract with one another, is consuming, both trying to keep their secrets hidden until the right time, then their chemistry is so hot, it literally ripples from the page. I was especially excited to learn what type of shifter Rachel wrote for this collection, WOW I've NEVER read another book with this type of shifter in it. I will not give the shifter type away here, you'll need to read it to find out.

I can honestly say I wish this was longer, but eveything that was needed was in here. I fell in LOVE & can't wait to read what the others have written for the "Woodland Creek" collection.
Profile Image for A.C. Wilson.
Author 18 books238 followers
November 11, 2015
I received a copy of this book for an honest review.

Becca is completely mired in an abusive relationship with a very powerful man. Alex Scar pushes Becca a bit too far when he all but hands her body over to his "friends". Becca can't stand it and in her moment of absolute panic, she seals her fate. It's funny how fickle fate can be as it leads Becca to a road where she finds Astor Tavros. He instantly attaches to her, knowing she is special and hoping that she will tell him who or what she is running from. Secrets aren't strangers to Astor and he's not sure he can trust Becca with his greatest secret. Will she stay with him once she knows what it is?

I loved this story and all the stories written by Rachel. Her paranormal romance visions bring me back time and time again. I didn't see the Minotaur shifter coming, but it didn't fail to have me tearing up, chuckling at the witty humor, and leave me cheering for Becca and Astor to find their way! Brilliant job!
Profile Image for Corrine Pickering.
603 reviews8 followers
October 14, 2015
*** Reviewed for HashtagMinxes Love Books ***

The Beast Within, Woodland Creek Series - Rachel Raithby 5 big shifter stars !

Wow, I love this book, I was drawn in immediately and transported into Becca's heartbreakingly broken life, when she finally manages to escape the clutches of Alex she finds herself staying with Aster in his cabin. Aster has his own well hidden secrets, he's no ordinary shifter.. Will they finally share their secrets, can Becca learn to trust again and will Becca be terrified when she sees Aster in his shifted form ?

I loved that this was a longer than normal novella, perfect for an easy but gripping read in one session, the strong emotions and the red hot chemistry can be felt throughout. Rachel you have once again captured my imagination, I am now eagerly looking forward to more in The Woodland Creek series!
Profile Image for Natalie.
4,806 reviews13 followers
March 31, 2016
The Beast Within

Jeez this is my first Minotaur shifter romance and it was awesome. Who knew he had such a sexy, erotic vocabulary. I loved everything about this book.
Profile Image for Lillian.
1,085 reviews68 followers
November 17, 2015
I received an eARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of this review

The Beast Within by Rachel M. Raithby was the first book in the Woodland Creek series I picked up. Becca Kian is on the run after killing a man and escaping her drug lord boyfriend. Aster Tavros is a shifter in hiding and struggles daily to keep his beast in check. When the two collide on the road, Becca awakens something in Aster he himself runs from.

So I'm not sure how I felt about this particular book. Becca is a strong character and can definitely hold her own. She's seen monsters in her past and recognizes them in others, so Aster doesn't scare her in the slightest. In fact she feels safe with him, after only knowing him a few days. But she has this constant fear of being found by her ex. She wants to run, but then she's happy for the first time in a really long time. I kinda struggled with her. I wanted her to trust Aster and come clean, tell the truth and see what happened. I rooted for her and even weeped for her at times.

Aster is...just wow! He's a minotaur, which this is the first book I've ever read with a minotaur shifter. He's honestly one scary dude. Yet his human side is the complete opposite. He's kind, caring, and protective, even if he has a bit of a temper. Like Becca, he's also running. He's running from relationships after he's seen them fail time and again when the partner realizes what he truly is. BUT when Becca crashes into his life, he ignores all those run-for-the-hills feelings he usually has in an effort to get to know her. Can you tell I like him?! He wants to show her his true self, his beast, but he is afraid which is a bit endearing if you ask me.

Plot wise, there really wasn't one. You have some significant insta-love with Aster and Becca. There's also the threat of Becca's ex coming for them. But really there was no driving plot for this story which is why I don't really know how I feel about it. There is some excellent romance, bordering on the erotic side (fair warning), and there is the constant suspense of will Aster show Becca his beast side, but nothing to drive the story.

Overall I thought The Beast Within was just okay. I really liked the characters and the setting, a secluded cabin in the woods (can it get any more romantic?!), but the plot was lacking. If you enjoy paranormal romance, than you'll probably enjoy this novella. Warning though there are some erotic scenes and a pretty graphic gory scene towards the end so consider yourself warned if you pick up the book!
Profile Image for Jennifer.
2,321 reviews21 followers
November 14, 2015

*** I received this ARC from the author in return for my honest opinions. No compensation has been given and all opinions are my own.***

I have always had a thing for mythological creatures. I love the mystery and awe surrounding them. Did they really exist or was it all a creative imagination of so many? If they did exist why wouldn't they still be around today...in hiding??? Something to really ask yourself right lol?

If they did I feel like this story would totally work, sexy guy having to hide what he is while searching for his mate. How hard must it be to keep what you truly are hidden from the person who would mean so much to you. When our sexy minotaur finds his mate imagine his surprise at the fact she is on the run. Now while he could protect her from just about anything how in the world can he tells her that without seeming like a lunatic right?

Becca is running from a very dangerous group of people that she has seriously pissed off with a little bit of glee lol. When she runs into this mountain of a man she doesn't know what to think really, just that she has to keep moving. While she feels safe to an extent while he helps her get her bike fixed she can't afford to stay long.

The chemistry between both characters is amazing and when they do come together it is hot as hell. I loved the story leading up to and the climactic ending. Loved the reveal of himself and how Becca felt about it. Overall great story and cannot wait to read more by this author. Four stars!!!!!
Profile Image for Maghon Thomas.
1,541 reviews1 follower
June 9, 2016
So, I think this one is the coolest shifter in the series, and Aster was the perfect Minotaur. I don't see these too often so this shifter was surprising and completely loved! Aster stays to himself because his shifter side is more dangerous than not. And when he accidentally hits Becca's bike on the way home from work, he only wants to help her, but Becca is on the run from an abusive past, and she has serious reservations about Aster. She's human, and has no idea about shifters, magic, or anything. Woodland Creek was just a town she was passing though but she ends up finding the home she never had. They are both attracted to each other, but Becca thinks she needs to run because no one can protect her from Alex, whom she is running from. And Aster wants to protect her, from himself, but still wants to keep her. He can't help it, his shifter side has found his mate, but the human side has been hurt too many times because woman don't understand the shifter side. It was a bbeautiful story of love winning and finding yourself and acceptance. I totally cheered for them as a couple and I was really happy with their HEA!The characters are so well done that I felt like I knew them both, and the writing was excellent! I loved this one :) 5 PAWS!!
Profile Image for Dana Busenbark.
2,801 reviews29 followers
November 14, 2015
This book brings us the story of Aster, a minotaur, and Becca, a woman who has been offered a job and is now effectively a prisoner of a man named Alex Scar. Who is this guy and why is she his prisoner? What happens that causes her to flee? How does she get away? What happens after she does get away? Does she ever tell Aster what happened, who/what she's running from? What happens between them when he finally agrees to take the Harley into the shop for her? Does Alex find her? This is a tale of shifter romance, at least on one side. Aster has been looking for a woman that can handle all of him. Is Becca that woman? This story is filled with highs and lows. It is well written and was a joy to read. Check it out. I definitely am planning to find more of Rachel's books and read them. I need to see if there are more Woodland Creek books. This was fun!

RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M.Brennan.
Profile Image for Lorraine Harvey.
144 reviews12 followers
November 16, 2015
I've been a fan of Rachel for a while and have loved all her other books so far so I jumped at the chance to read this one. I wasn't quite sure what to expect as its one of a group of books written about "Woodland Creek" by many authors and I hadn't read any of the other books before reading this one, that said I don't think you need to read any of them in a particular order. If all the other books are as good as this one I'm in for one hell of a treat!
I really enjoyed this book, Rachel has written about two amazingly strong characters who just seem to 'fit' each other, Becca and Aster relationship is easy to fall into. They have an explosive chemistry that draws you in and gets you a little hot under the collar. Would highly recommend this book and can't wait to go and read more about Woodland Creek, big double thumbs up Rachel.
Profile Image for Kathy Osborn.
225 reviews34 followers
November 19, 2015
This is my first book from Rachel M. Raithby and I wasn't disappointed, in fact I will be reading more of her work.

Aster (Minotaur shifter) ends up Woodland Creek as he witnessed the death of his date and lost control of the Minotaur side of him. While driving home one day, he spots a motorcycle, but is too late to stop and hits it, hence he meets Becca.

Becca is running from her abusive boyfriend, when Aster hits her bike. Aster’s Minotaur side knows Becca is his mate. But Becca, has secrets and mistrust anyone right now, can Aster get past the walls Becca has put up?

The sexual tension between Becca and Aster is undeniable, but can Aster keep his Minotaur side under control or lose Becca, before the relationship can grow?

I received a complementary copy, but I would recommend this book to anyone who loves paranormal shifters.






Profile Image for katrina.
993 reviews70 followers
October 18, 2015
A Spine tingling read filled with sensual delights .

The Beast Within is delivered with heart stopping and panty wetting moments that will have your breathe baited and heart pumping .

Danger that will have you cringing , on the edge of your seat and waiting in anticipation as to what the story will bring .

The story builds throughout at a great pace , danger looms , love grows . Anticipation builds .

The author paints a vivid picture that will not only capture the imagination of the story but have you picturing every scene unfold .

Characters that you can't help but fall in love with . This paranormal romance will sweep
You along at every page turn .

Unputdownable , deliciously delightful and captivating .


Full review to come
Profile Image for United Indie Book Blog.
4,676 reviews85 followers
December 29, 2015
Fast paced, sexy shifter story. Aster and Becca have both seen violence in their lives. Together their attraction sizzles and heals them. Every woman Aster has been with has run from his beast. He is afraid Becca will run too. Becca's past catches up with her. The resolution is fast and furious. I love these characters. This is an awesome read.
*** I was given this book as a goft from the author in exchange for my honest review. ***
Review by Laura
Profile Image for Laura.
279 reviews
November 15, 2015
Fast paced, sexy shifter story. Aster and Becca have both seen violence in their lives. Together their attraction sizzles and heals them. Every woman Aster has been with has run from his beast. He is afraid Becca will run too. Becca's past catches up with her. The resolution is fast and furious. I love these characters. This is an awesome read.
*** I was given this book as a goft from the author in exchange for my honest review. ***
Profile Image for Chelsea Wilson.
29 reviews
October 21, 2015
The beast within. I loved Becca and Aster story! Rachel Raithby is such an awesome story teller you get sucked into the story quite quickly and fall in love with the characters. I look forward to reading more of the woodland creek novels
Profile Image for Crystal.
1,334 reviews10 followers
January 29, 2016
A Minator in love

Aster never expected to find his mate, by hitting her with his truck. When he realizes that she is running from a dangerous man, he will do everything in his power to keep her safe. But will she accept his beastly nature, or will she run?
Profile Image for Jennifer Erwin.
1,323 reviews14 followers
April 15, 2016
This one was ok. Not sure how I feel about a mythological creature like a minotaur being a shifter species, but then again, most shifters fall in the category of "mythological creatures". Anyways, the story wasn't bad, but not sure I really liked the characters.
Profile Image for Jane Blake.
Author 9 books10 followers
November 27, 2015
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of this review

*

actually 3.5
The review is on the way
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews

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