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Portrain Pack and Coven #1

The Power Of The Bite

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Wolf Shifter/Vampire Novel

Dax Portrain has it all - he's the next Alpha of the only pack in town, he owns a successful night club and he has men falling all over him every night of the week. So when he catches sight of a new vampire in town, he tries to shrug off the instant attraction he feels. After all, everyone knows that wolf shifters and vampires do not get along.

Zane Macintosh has lived a long and full life, and while he might have issues trying to pass himself off as human at the Portrain police department, he knows it's only temporary and shrugs off the problems. A night out with friends turns his whole life upside down when he catches sight of Dax with his pack. The gorgeous hunk is his mate, but that doesn't mean that anything has to come of it. In fact, he's determined nothing will.

One explosive meeting sends both men's lives into a spiral. Zane knows the only way things can end well for his mate is to allow himself to die. But Dax has a stubborn streak a mile wide and isn't going to let Zane go that easily.

Warning: This is an M/M book and contains graphic scenes of sexual practices between two men. Some violence and coarse language, no cliffhangers, a definite HEA, and love of course, because I couldn't write any of my books without it.

201 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 16, 2015

52 people are currently reading
221 people want to read

About the author

Lisa Oliver

210 books951 followers
Lisa Oliver had been writing non-fiction books for years when visions of half dressed, buff men started invading her dreams. Unable to resist the lure of her stories, Lisa decided to switch to fiction books, and now stories about her men clamor to get out from under her fingertips.
When Lisa is not writing, she is usually reading with a cup of tea always at hand. Her grown children and grandchildren sometimes try and pry her away from the computer and have found that the best way to do it, is to promise her chocolate. Lisa will do anything for chocolate.
Lisa loves to hear from her readers and other writers. You can friend her on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/lisaoliverauthor), or email her directly at yoursintuitively@gmail.com. If you want to chat with her on Skype, then email for contact details.

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5 stars
274 (42%)
4 stars
224 (34%)
3 stars
109 (16%)
2 stars
31 (4%)
1 star
8 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
Profile Image for Raj.
750 reviews64 followers
March 12, 2018
This book was like a phantom itch.The one you search frantically for & it just eludes you much to your dismay.When I thought it had reached it's climax ,it just kept on spewing out more & more villains.It was like an apocalypse of villains.It had all the right ingredients but the temperature was all wrong.It was just the wrong side of epic.

I liked it to the point that it was okay. This idea would have been a great addition to The Originals or TVD though. Imagine if one of Klaus past lovers were male.I mean he has lived a 1000 years so it's not outside the realm of possibility.As for TVD I thought Elena making me grind my teeth was torturous, now that Caroline makes me want to pull them all out.

But back to this book,read it.you may like it.
Profile Image for Theresa.
3,565 reviews
October 8, 2022
Reread 10/2022 6 years later and still like it. Must be patient with Dax tho. Would like to see a series. Bumping up from 4 to 5 stars.

This standalone was in the same world as the Cloverleah Pack. It would make a nice spinoff series. I enjoyed how Dax matured through the story. He learned to treat Zane as a non traditional true alpha mate. He learned to use tough love on his pack. I still don't understand, nor liked, powerhouse Zane playing martyr at the beginning. Lots of action. Really nice sex and sweet blood drinking.
Profile Image for Gerbera_Reads.
1,684 reviews154 followers
March 20, 2019
This was fun PNR romance. I loved the whole true mates overcoming circumstances to be together situation. At the beginning Dax was a bit selfish but when cornered into choosing a mate, he finally accepted his fated mate. He needed to learn how to love but not to smother Zane who was a force to be reckoned with. I enjoyed the pack strife, and the subsequent conflict. It was all very fast-paced and a bit bloody. But I loved the humble pie Dax had to eat in the end. There was no insta love because both men while being intimate had a bit of time to get to know each other.

Zane was the kind of mate who put Dax's needs before his own. Whether it was his years of experience or just the kind of vampire he always was is a bit unclear. But he changed Dax for the best, his support and faith in Dax's abilities went a long way into making them a stronger couple. There were mistakes made in the name of love, the was a bit of angst, humor and hot loving. I had a lovely time with Zane and Dax.

Profile Image for Tammy.
1,245 reviews34 followers
February 7, 2016
This was an excellent read and so very different than your traditional shifter series!!! Wolf and vampire mates, what!?!?! It totally worked though and I can't wait to read more from this brand new seri GREAT BOOK photo Funny_Pictures_Animated_Dancing_Cat_zpspnlvfdb5.gif es! :-)
Profile Image for Levi.
573 reviews18 followers
April 24, 2016
4.5 stars i liked the story...it's an easy read ...just read it!
Profile Image for Blaine Hall.
104 reviews18 followers
May 19, 2016
Lisa Oliver has done it again. I have been a huge fan of her Cloverleah series and this book is just as incredible. Dax and Zane are a real surprise. I love the way she has worked the vampire/shifter dynamic. The entire book was full of incredible surprises. Just when I thought I had a handle on it, she would throw another wrench in the works. I really hope that there is going to be more of this world that she has created, it grabs you immediately and doesn't let you go until the end. There was a HEA, but I think there are some more stories to be told...(hint, hint)
Profile Image for JLOluvsbooks&dogs.
316 reviews5 followers
January 20, 2016
Good potential

This story took quite a long time to feel good about MC Dax. I really liked Zane and would have enjoyed more about his background. I felt he gave too much and Dax was so unaware of what a partnership should be, it made the book a bit frustrating instead of warm fuzzier. Interesting blend of Vampire and Wolf though.
8 reviews1 follower
December 18, 2015
Loved it!

Another great story by a very talented author! The storyline between Dax and Zane was wonderful. Yes there was some angst, but it fueled the story. And yes I would love a book for Alex and Ryan and lance and nico.
Profile Image for Barbara Lampron.
297 reviews2 followers
December 19, 2015
I loved it!!!

Yes, we definitely need more of that! It was a must read. With all the wolves and vampires in there it was exactly what was needed. Thanks Lisa!
Profile Image for SophiaH.
592 reviews12 followers
August 20, 2022
***3.5***

Soooo. On the one hand I like this story well enough. On the other I really disliked Dax at the beginning of the story. And Zane... he seemed to have multiple personality transfers. He is supposed to be a force to be reckoned with and I cannot understand such a person just accepting being treated so badly by Dax. How is it that only Zane feels the bond so strongly that he wants to do what seems best for his mate and not Dax? How come Dax can hurt him so and don't think twice? If I were Zane I wouldn't have forgiven Dax so easily, I would have expected groveling and a show of humility, loyalty and dare I say general interest in Zane as a person. So first he was self sacrificing, then all forgiving and supportive but demure, then suddenly the image of strength a force of nature and fierce only to start shifting between obliviously nice and dominant.

So you can understand that it was even more worrisome for me when Dax said the following to Zanes face at one point "But wolves are taught from the moment they know what a mate is, that they are to be protected at all costs. ...". So how could he be so dismissive at the start?

Well, but aside from that I liked their group of friends, that they aimed to resolve their problems and miscommunication issues by talking things out and the general vibe. There was also some character development going on with Dax and in the end he truly learned to respect his mate in all aspects of his life. It sadly isn't Mrs. Olivers best work but a nice read for a lazy afternoon.
Profile Image for Jesslan Rose.
1,140 reviews50 followers
February 9, 2021
The Power Of The Bite By Lisa Oliver

Alpha-heir Dax owns a bar in town and is enjoying the single life. Vampire Zane is a Detective on the local police force.

When they meet Dax's wolf takes over making a decision that haunts Zane who only wants the best for his mate. Even if that means dying.

When Dax finally wisens up and they become full mates they encounter obstacles with Dax's Alpha and father as well as members of the pack.

I very much enjoyed the book. I did cry a time or two for Zane's heartache in the beginning. The book is written in both men's POV and has a HEA.

My only disappointment was that their first introduction and first couple of weeks of their relationship were told to us in a memory. It wasn't written in the beginning so that we experienced it with them. I felt that really took away from bonding with them as characters from the start.
Profile Image for Skye Blue ☆*~゚ლ(´ڡ`ლ)~*☆.
2,796 reviews28 followers
December 12, 2017
After a rough start, it turned out okay.
The story was a little frustrating, but I liked Zane.
Seemed like the troublemakers would have been a little more obvious. If they weren't focused on the troublemakers, why not build the relationship some more. Dex didn't get to know Zane. I felt bad for Zane, because he was doing all the compromising. Dex was constantly surprised by tidbits about Zane, that he should have known, with a little conversation with his mate.
Still, I was entertained. I liked them finding out about the vampires rights, that had been hidden prior.

Profile Image for Karen.
2,682 reviews
December 15, 2019
I loved this book. It would have fit in just fine as a spinoff of the Cloverleah Pack series. Maybe if she decided to write more books to go with this book then she can include some cross over. I thought it was well written and a joy to read. I have loved all the other series by Lisa Oliver that I have read. I look forward to seeing what she has coming out next.
Profile Image for Susan.
470 reviews13 followers
February 26, 2016
Fascinating story

This is a fascinating and well-written romance and I am looking forward to reading more stories by this very talented author. A mating between an alpha wolf and a vampire in a town with no tolerance for the mixing of paranormal species. Secrets are slowly revealed as the two lovers attempt to make a life together. An M/M romance
Profile Image for Morgan Scott.
239 reviews1 follower
December 20, 2015
Amazing

I loved this book so much. I think that this author is amazing and I can't wait to read more of her books. She create the best stories, all she needs now is make pregnancy!;) She doesn't need it though because her books are amazing other wise!:)
Profile Image for Kenike.
213 reviews
December 18, 2015
Another great story

I'm totally ready for this to be a new series! Entertaining from beginning to end! I can't wait to see what's next!!
1,080 reviews10 followers
May 25, 2022
An awesome, entertaining read ~ Lisa Oliver doesn't know how to write an awful book!

I loved the mix of vampires and wolf shifters, especially Dax, the Portrain alpha heir, and Zane, a mysterious, seemingly ageless vampire detective, our featured main characters. Dax's father, the current pack alpha, holds rigid views about mixing paranormal species, so when Dax first is irresistibly drawn and attracted to Zane when he and his fellow vampires begin dropping in at Dax's club, then realizes they're fated mates, he tries to hide Zane from the rest of his pack to protect Zane. Zane and his friends eventually become invaluable allies to Fax as things heat up; first a betrayal by a supposed friend occurs, then evidence is brought to light that Portrain was originally established as a vampire territory, then shared with the wolves because the coven leader and pack alpha were discovered to be true mates. When the alpha rejected the vampire for a female wolf bondmate instead, they co-existed without intermingling for generations until Dax and Zane find each other.

Then it gets really, truly exciting and interesting. The traitor proves to be the downfall of Dax's father, as he intended to be Alpha Mate to Dax as well as take advantage of Dax's wealth and position of power, which draws the attention and meddling of the paranormal/shifter council. Quite a lot happens, all a test for Dax and Zane and the strength or weakness of their mating. Their story is spicy, littered with challenges, potential hazards, and, for Dax, never-ending fear for his mate as he imagines his mate subjected to constant threats from hostile, stubborn pack members who refuse to accept his very male, extremely capable and formidable vampire Alpha Mate.

Dax is a joy to read about -- he's over six feet of well-muscled sexiness, possessing innate charm and diplomacy, good manners, gorgeously beautiful without detracting or taking away from the powerfully dominant alpha strength he was born with. Compared to Zane, Dax is young and inexperienced, but Zane fully committed himself to taking a backseat to his mate's role as Alpha. Dax learns that he should never get Zane upset, insulted or furious - although the pack did deserve to see exactly how much power and fearsome strength Zane was capable of. These two were kinda adorable together, in particular Dax; and, you're going to really enjoy seeing how relaxed and entertaining a vampire king and his entourage (court?!) can be!

As previously stated, this author writes wonderfully creative stories that never fail to deliver humor, the warmth and fellowship of great friends regardless of origins, social class or standing, and romance. This one's got more than a few very intense, heated-to-near-incineration-level, intimate moments that would have immediately shut down accusations of Dax being magically forced under a vampire's thrall had the objectors been privy to such scenes. Dax and Zane were so hot together that even a kiss could make reality and the rest of their surroundings fade from their awareness. Sigh. Great book - recommended for anyone18+ . 💖👍

Rating: FIVE DOZEN STARS!!! Okay, okay - FIVE STARS. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Profile Image for Jacqueleen the Reading Queen♡.
1,542 reviews104 followers
October 15, 2018
This was a typical Lisa Oliver novel chock full of lots of biting, sexy times, and protectiveness. I adore her Cloverleah series so I don't know why it took me so long to read this one. An oversight on my part.

Dax is a wolf, and the next Alpha wolf of his current pack to be exact. To be true mated to a vampire is not how he saw his life plan going at all. Vampires and Wolves don't get along at the best of times.

Zane is a vampire, a very old one. He realizes the moment he spots Dax in Dax's club that he's his fated mate. But Zane is not an idiot and understands he must stay away for his mates sake. After all that's what mates do they care and protect each other.

That is apparently not what Dax thinks mates do because after biting his mate in a haze of lust Dax proceeds to act like a right bastard. He ignores his mate, shows him no affection. Meeting him only to slake his lust and give Zane a few sips of his blood to keep him alive, but barely. Thankfully he eventually comes to his senses and not a moment too soon.

What ensues is one back stab after another when news of the Vampire/ Wolf true mating has reached the pack. Dax, again, occurs the wrath of his mate making mistake after mistake in misjudging him. Even though he does it under the guise of protecting his mate it is no less insulting to Zane.

The two get back on track in the end after enduring the minefield of what it means to be mated to another species. Dax especially is quite ignorant of Vampires and their habits/needs. Communication was much needed between this pair. If it wasn't for other people bestowing their wisdom on Dax I don't know if the couple would have worked things out when they did.
669 reviews6 followers
Read
January 16, 2021
Great mm shifter/vampire romance

I enjoyed this book and although it was a standalone I am hopeful this pack/coven can be revisited. It starts with Dax, an alpha wolf shifter, claims his mate Zane , a vampire ,in a lustful moment and then tries to keep it a secret because wolves only mate with wolves in his pack. He only sees Zane once a week for quick sex and a small feeding. Meanwhile Zane is slowly fading from lack of daily feeding and his mate's lack of recognition of their bond and even affection. Dax is ignorant of the needs of vampires and when he realizes it, he steps up and finally asks Zane to claim him and to feed from him regularly. Dax informs his father the pack Alpha of the claim and tells him he will not take over the pack. His father and others in the pack plot to get rid of Zane so things go on as planned. Boy, there is a lot of danger, fighting, betrayal ,Council involvement, challengers, murder and lots of love. There is a hard fought HEA and is a most enjoyable read to get to the end.
Profile Image for Yunga2013.
78 reviews2 followers
June 21, 2019
That was an engaging and entertaining read. I enjoy the vampire/shifter dynamic and I got it here in spades. There was some action, and the romance was good (and the guys - hot😜). But the most important thing for me was that the author in a light and entertaining way touched a very important issue. This story is about Acceptance, about opening your mind and stopping clinging to the old prejudices. Everybody is worthy and precious no matter if they're a wolf, a vampire, gay or straight...and you can continue...black or white, male or female or whoever you identify yourself with - you are precious anyway. And Lisa Oliver delivered this message really well. It is so important for us to understand and learn to live and let the others live. And this is exactly what our sexy strong and handsome guys are fighting for.
I recommend this book to everybody who enjoys paranormal MM romance. It leaves you warm inside and makes you think about important things.
Profile Image for Amber.
1,294 reviews33 followers
July 30, 2017
I'm beginning to think this author just isn't for me. I made my way through this book but I began to feel that this story was strung together with cheesy villains and sex. Cole was utterly ridiculous as a supposed best friend that wants to mate with Dax. I snorted at Cole's seduction scene towards the end. I also found it strange that Dax couldn't figure out after three month who was threatening his mate since the connections where there for a blind man to see. There was lots of screwing not alot of talking and not a lot of history on the vampires side of things for backstory.
Profile Image for Read-A-Book Everyday Reviews!!!.
512 reviews3 followers
December 8, 2018
DNF at chapter 7.
Okay, I’m also a self published author, so I understand there can be several grammatical errors, words missing, tenses changed and plot holes, but man oh man, there were a lot.
Then there is insta love. GAG
Talks about insta love and rolling my eyes.
Soooo cheeeesy!!!
It saddens me because I really liked the idea of this book. It was interesting but I couldn’t get past the face palms and what?! Lol moments
The author mentioned the proverbial this and the proverbial that, then the “proverbial shit hit the fan” lmfao, no wayyyyyy 😂 what?
I hope it intended to be a satire bc I’m left speechless.
Like I said, I loved the idea, the world, and the characters but the insta love and insta like and all that. It’s just too surreal for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
35 reviews
March 29, 2020
Love.. As usual...

There isn't a single book written by Lisa Oliver that i don't love.. Or own.. Her characters are so easy to fall in love with and fax and Zane were no exception.. As this is probably the third time I've read through this.. I'm hoping once again that there will be come more portrain pack/coven books coming in the future. Some of the characters were mentioned in the author's note as potentially having their own book but if love to see how Broz and Van came together as well.
53 reviews1 follower
April 2, 2023
It should be 5 stars

There are books that are well written but they miss the important part. Plot. That is not the case here, the problem is there are too many plots I stoped counting at 4. And it would would be great for 2 or 3 books. The plots make sense and could be made into really good story. I wpuld live these books. This thoug is more like storyline than story, there is no tho to get to know the characters, I have no cennections to them as everything happend and wasnsomehow quicly solved without bigger contex. I didnt mind the book ending. Pity that
Profile Image for Wax.
1,295 reviews22 followers
June 11, 2021
It’s tough when one of the MCs is a complete AH to the other MC. Admittedly he did admit his wrongs and was pretty great through the rest of the story, however, I’m not sure I could have made it through the book if it hadn’t been for a challenge. The first chapter was hard to read. The rest of the story was a bit OTT and I’m still not sure I got enough world-building to understand how things worked in their world.
Profile Image for kerryann williams.
262 reviews1 follower
June 23, 2017
Another awesome addition yet

This appears to be a stand alone book yet has great potential to be an additional story for any of the authors shifter stories. The conflict between clans pulls you in to
it and won't let go and than its over (way to soon) . Great read and want lots more on Zane and Dax and all of both clans.
Profile Image for Christal Elerick.
79 reviews
February 5, 2018
A great series starter

I so enjoyed the odd start this couple had. Vamps and wolves learning to get along, there’s a lesson there that perhaps someone may find. Looking forward to reading more from this pack/coven and author
Profile Image for Rose.
Author 55 books53 followers
December 21, 2018
Loved this story!

Really loved this story! Thoroughly enjoyed these two and their dynamics. Different shifter vampire love story but so good! Thrills. Bit angst. Bit danger. Lots sexy!
Profile Image for DeeNeez.
2,000 reviews13 followers
January 28, 2019
A fun quick read. Dax starts off as such a ego-nut, only thinking of himself, I just wanted to thwack the back of his head at being such an idiot. Loved how Zane took him hand at the end to knock it out of him at the end. Enjoyable.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews

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