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Heart of the Shifter #1
Dark Wolf Rising
New York Times bestselling author, Stephanie Rowe, launches her explosive new Heart of the Shifter series, in which passion and loyalty are brutally tested in a world where survival is never guaranteed.
A decade ago, wolf shifter Cash Burns severed all ties to his past in order to protect his best friend, the childhood sweetheart he has never forgotten. When she's targeted for assassination by his pack on Christmas Eve, he's the only one who can save her…but at a cost greater than he can afford.
Haunted by a tragic secret, Brynn McKenzie has been fighting for survival, alone in a world she doesn't fit. She's on the run for her life, forced to choose between redemption and survival. She has nowhere to turn, until the man who walked away from her so long ago appears in her hotel room with a knife and a promise she can't afford to believe.
When passion ignites between Bryn and Cash, will it shatter what little hope they have for survival, or make them stronger than they ever thought they'd be?
A decade ago, wolf shifter Cash Burns severed all ties to his past in order to protect his best friend, the childhood sweetheart he has never forgotten. When she's targeted for assassination by his pack on Christmas Eve, he's the only one who can save her…but at a cost greater than he can afford.
Haunted by a tragic secret, Brynn McKenzie has been fighting for survival, alone in a world she doesn't fit. She's on the run for her life, forced to choose between redemption and survival. She has nowhere to turn, until the man who walked away from her so long ago appears in her hotel room with a knife and a promise she can't afford to believe.
When passion ignites between Bryn and Cash, will it shatter what little hope they have for survival, or make them stronger than they ever thought they'd be?
171 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 15, 2015
602 people are currently reading
889 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Rowe
112 books1,537 followersHailed as a "paranormal star!" by J.R. Ward, Stephanie Rowe is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than forty-five novels. She is the 2018 RITA® winner for Best Paranormal Romance, as well as a five-time nominee for this prestigious award. For more on Stephanie and her books, visit her at www.stephaneierowe.com, or on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/StephanieRow....
A life-long reader, she began crafting stories at age ten, but didn't realize it was her dream until she was an adult.
Once the light dawned, she immediately left behind "work" as the world defines it and went to "work" as she defines it, which means getting up every morning with a smile in her heart so she can spend the day doing that which makes her spirit sing.
Stephanie believes in learning to listen to your heart in order to figure out what your dreams are, and then opening yourself to the inspiration that will direct you there. She believes we all deserve the right to enjoy life, and for the ride to be as easy as we want it to be, and that we all should accept nothing less than making our dreams come true.
Stephanie lives in New England, and spends every day doing her best to fill it with people, observations and activities that uplift her soul, which include writing, tennis, dancing, friends, and her amazing family.
A life-long reader, she began crafting stories at age ten, but didn't realize it was her dream until she was an adult.
Once the light dawned, she immediately left behind "work" as the world defines it and went to "work" as she defines it, which means getting up every morning with a smile in her heart so she can spend the day doing that which makes her spirit sing.
Stephanie believes in learning to listen to your heart in order to figure out what your dreams are, and then opening yourself to the inspiration that will direct you there. She believes we all deserve the right to enjoy life, and for the ride to be as easy as we want it to be, and that we all should accept nothing less than making our dreams come true.
Stephanie lives in New England, and spends every day doing her best to fill it with people, observations and activities that uplift her soul, which include writing, tennis, dancing, friends, and her amazing family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
January 23, 2016
My second book by this author, and I can say she's not for me.
This is a very short novel that lacked too many things for my tastes. It wanted to be gritty and dark, but couldn't sustain it. It had no grip in its boringness. Rather than dark and brooding it was whiny.
Too many holes inboth plot and world building, probably due to its shortness. Not my cuppa.
This is a very short novel that lacked too many things for my tastes. It wanted to be gritty and dark, but couldn't sustain it. It had no grip in its boringness. Rather than dark and brooding it was whiny.
Too many holes inboth plot and world building, probably due to its shortness. Not my cuppa.
December 19, 2015
Everyone has that one person in their life that knows them like no one else, is always there for them, loves them unconditionally, and would do anything for them. For Cash and Brynn, that person is each other. They were best friends and did everything together. Cash, a foster child, eventually became an unofficial member of Brynn's family, once her Mom realized he was a good kid and truly cared about Brynn. For Cash, Brynn helped him get through the difficulties of never having a permanent home, not to mention the heartbreaking uncertainty of not knowing who you came from. They only left the friendship zone one time and kissed as their developing maturity started impacting their platonic friendship. Then a few days later, Cash was gone. As in, proof, he disappeared. Brynn had no idea what happened and was broken hearted. Her rock, her best friend, was gone.
For Cash, leaving Brynn was the hardest thing he'd ever done, yet he knew it was the only way to keep her safe. But he's her best friend, he'd never hurt her. No, he wouldn't. But when you suddenly discover you can turn into a wolf and you aren't strong enough to fully control him? Yeah, of course he's worried about hurting the most important person in his life. However, Cash couldn't fully leave her. For two years, he checked on her every night. Sounds awful stalkery, right? LOL You'd think so, but Cash did it from a place of love and concern. He needed to know she was safe. He had always been her protector and he continued doing that until his pack left the area.
A decade later, Brynn is in protective custody waiting to testify against Jace Donovan. Unfortunately, Brynn witnessed Jace killing a woman and her testimony is required to put him away. Well this creates a couple of problems within Jace's pack. For one, those who know Jace are sure he's innocent. (But kind of hard to say that when Brynn literally saw him kill the woman.) Secondly, there's some treachery afoot and some see this as the perfect opportunity to rid themselves of Jace and Cash, who everyone knows is Jace's choice as the next alpha. So once a kill order within the pack is decided upon for Brynn, Jace instantly says he's taking the mission, because as soon as he saw Brynn's face, he knew there was no way he'd let someone kill her. He would do anything and everything to keep her safe. One look will be all it takes to make Cash realize how much he's missed her. How much he needs her, wants her, and has to claim her.
Screams, gunshots, and death are the backdrop to Cash and Brynn's reunion. Yeah, this is definitely not a fairy tale going on here. Of course, Brynn has all kinds of questions for Cash, but it all has to wait as Cash rescues her. It's definitely not your normal type of rescue, yet it's necessary to get her out of this dangerous situation. They're also both reeling from the instant attraction they're feeling. *internal thoughts - "well, this is new." LOL*
So now Cash needs to keep her safe, figure out the truth behind what Brynn saw (Is her brain forgetting some important details that will explain why Jace killed that woman?), and stop the traitor in the pack from implementing his plan for pack domination. Not to mention, is her testimony the only reason someone wants her dead or is the real motive something else entirely? All this while they're adjusting to their new roles in each other's life, catching up on a decade of missed experiences, ensuring Brynn is able to testify in a few days, celebrate Christmas, and oh yeah, get mated.
Phew, I'm exhausted from just typing all that. LOL Good thing Cash has super powers to help them get everything done. I highly recommend this book, which is the first in a new series by Stephanie. I'm eagerly anticipating book 2, and can't wait to see how the story continues. Yes, Cash and Brynn get their HEA, but there's still some situations that will be a part of the next story. Which honestly, I like that this book ended that way. I'm happy this couple solidified their future, and excited that the overall storyline will continue on in the next book.
I also have to say, I absolutely love the history between Cash and Brynn. The fact that they had a solid foundation of such a close friendship, which changed into a different type of emotion upon being reunited, was beautiful to see. You could actually feel the genuine love they had for each other and watching them adjust to this new feeling of fully belonging to the other, was a natural progression. Thank you Stephanie for sharing this world with us. Now the wait for book two, Jace's story, begins. So while you go one-click this book, I'm going to see about building a time machine because the wait is going to be torture.
**I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.**
For Cash, leaving Brynn was the hardest thing he'd ever done, yet he knew it was the only way to keep her safe. But he's her best friend, he'd never hurt her. No, he wouldn't. But when you suddenly discover you can turn into a wolf and you aren't strong enough to fully control him? Yeah, of course he's worried about hurting the most important person in his life. However, Cash couldn't fully leave her. For two years, he checked on her every night. Sounds awful stalkery, right? LOL You'd think so, but Cash did it from a place of love and concern. He needed to know she was safe. He had always been her protector and he continued doing that until his pack left the area.
A decade later, Brynn is in protective custody waiting to testify against Jace Donovan. Unfortunately, Brynn witnessed Jace killing a woman and her testimony is required to put him away. Well this creates a couple of problems within Jace's pack. For one, those who know Jace are sure he's innocent. (But kind of hard to say that when Brynn literally saw him kill the woman.) Secondly, there's some treachery afoot and some see this as the perfect opportunity to rid themselves of Jace and Cash, who everyone knows is Jace's choice as the next alpha. So once a kill order within the pack is decided upon for Brynn, Jace instantly says he's taking the mission, because as soon as he saw Brynn's face, he knew there was no way he'd let someone kill her. He would do anything and everything to keep her safe. One look will be all it takes to make Cash realize how much he's missed her. How much he needs her, wants her, and has to claim her.
Screams, gunshots, and death are the backdrop to Cash and Brynn's reunion. Yeah, this is definitely not a fairy tale going on here. Of course, Brynn has all kinds of questions for Cash, but it all has to wait as Cash rescues her. It's definitely not your normal type of rescue, yet it's necessary to get her out of this dangerous situation. They're also both reeling from the instant attraction they're feeling. *internal thoughts - "well, this is new." LOL*
So now Cash needs to keep her safe, figure out the truth behind what Brynn saw (Is her brain forgetting some important details that will explain why Jace killed that woman?), and stop the traitor in the pack from implementing his plan for pack domination. Not to mention, is her testimony the only reason someone wants her dead or is the real motive something else entirely? All this while they're adjusting to their new roles in each other's life, catching up on a decade of missed experiences, ensuring Brynn is able to testify in a few days, celebrate Christmas, and oh yeah, get mated.
Phew, I'm exhausted from just typing all that. LOL Good thing Cash has super powers to help them get everything done. I highly recommend this book, which is the first in a new series by Stephanie. I'm eagerly anticipating book 2, and can't wait to see how the story continues. Yes, Cash and Brynn get their HEA, but there's still some situations that will be a part of the next story. Which honestly, I like that this book ended that way. I'm happy this couple solidified their future, and excited that the overall storyline will continue on in the next book.
I also have to say, I absolutely love the history between Cash and Brynn. The fact that they had a solid foundation of such a close friendship, which changed into a different type of emotion upon being reunited, was beautiful to see. You could actually feel the genuine love they had for each other and watching them adjust to this new feeling of fully belonging to the other, was a natural progression. Thank you Stephanie for sharing this world with us. Now the wait for book two, Jace's story, begins. So while you go one-click this book, I'm going to see about building a time machine because the wait is going to be torture.
**I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.**
May 4, 2018
I guess I'm the odd man out on this book. I was hopeful, nearly too hopeful, that this book would be the start of a wonderful series. For me, it's been a while since I found a book that I could really get into and finish. Unfortunately, I will be continuing forward on that front still.
I want to press this point that my dislike for this book wasn't because of grammar issues, sentence structure, immaturity of characters behaviors despite their age, too much overkill on describing every part of everything, and characters whose written biography that doesn't match the choices and actions those characters make throughout the book. In these areas, this author did not fall into those pesky, and extremely irritating, potholes a lot of authors seem to write themselves into. For those reasons, this author should be proud of her work.
But my issue falls somewhere in the depths of this book content, I believe. I really, really wanted this to be my next big find. I truly did. I think the major issue is the tempo at which this story seems to lack. I only made it until chapter six, but up until that point, I found the timing was off in this book.
I want to press this point that my dislike for this book wasn't because of grammar issues, sentence structure, immaturity of characters behaviors despite their age, too much overkill on describing every part of everything, and characters whose written biography that doesn't match the choices and actions those characters make throughout the book. In these areas, this author did not fall into those pesky, and extremely irritating, potholes a lot of authors seem to write themselves into. For those reasons, this author should be proud of her work.
But my issue falls somewhere in the depths of this book content, I believe. I really, really wanted this to be my next big find. I truly did. I think the major issue is the tempo at which this story seems to lack. I only made it until chapter six, but up until that point, I found the timing was off in this book.
July 17, 2016
Not bad....
Not bad but just really do it for me, I needed more depth from the story and the characters,I mean I feel like we learn a decent amount about them then we just get that same info repeated to us again and again ad nauseam and we never really move beyond that.... There's the fact that all this happens between two/three days time for me this almost felt like should have either had
"To Be Continued" at the end or at least another part ,coz it almost felt like a prequel, it was intense and rather action packed at times but I never felt like I got to know the characters ( just their constantly repeated angst and the reasons there for) while we rushed from one scene to another,felt rushed almost.. H rescues girl, grabs some clothes and stuff, reminisce and catch up,talk about feelings, have sex, ( while constantly relive inner angst either in their head or our loud) have sex again,calls her his mate, H's Alpha and friend show up. Evil guys show up, we all almost drown enough angsty BS to make ( Dawson's Creek happy) evil guys get jump on them because self hating BS the
"good guys" putting out, the H and his crew survive evil monster guy escapes for another time/book "Alpha" is freed and h is thrilled to be w/her man... The End ..
Was ok,but sadly for all the action and drama ? There just wasn't much here, no roots, nothing hold on to,kinda felt like a rather drawn out angst ridden wham bam ,Thank you mam , you know ?
Not a Bad story but not enough to be really satisfying either...
I'd totally recommend if it was KU or if it's ever on sale, otherwise ? I'm honestly not sure, but either way that's just how it felt to me.. Enjoy ;) Thank you Ms.Rowe
Not bad but just really do it for me, I needed more depth from the story and the characters,I mean I feel like we learn a decent amount about them then we just get that same info repeated to us again and again ad nauseam and we never really move beyond that.... There's the fact that all this happens between two/three days time for me this almost felt like should have either had
"To Be Continued" at the end or at least another part ,coz it almost felt like a prequel, it was intense and rather action packed at times but I never felt like I got to know the characters ( just their constantly repeated angst and the reasons there for) while we rushed from one scene to another,felt rushed almost.. H rescues girl, grabs some clothes and stuff, reminisce and catch up,talk about feelings, have sex, ( while constantly relive inner angst either in their head or our loud) have sex again,calls her his mate, H's Alpha and friend show up. Evil guys show up, we all almost drown enough angsty BS to make ( Dawson's Creek happy) evil guys get jump on them because self hating BS the
"good guys" putting out, the H and his crew survive evil monster guy escapes for another time/book "Alpha" is freed and h is thrilled to be w/her man... The End ..
Was ok,but sadly for all the action and drama ? There just wasn't much here, no roots, nothing hold on to,kinda felt like a rather drawn out angst ridden wham bam ,Thank you mam , you know ?
Not a Bad story but not enough to be really satisfying either...
I'd totally recommend if it was KU or if it's ever on sale, otherwise ? I'm honestly not sure, but either way that's just how it felt to me.. Enjoy ;) Thank you Ms.Rowe
December 19, 2015
Dark Wolf Rising by Stephanie Rowe
"Bryn McKenzie would be dead by Thursday." This is the opening line of this novella. Talk about an intense start! This is the first in a new series.
Intense feelings, longings and connection. A thrill ride of danger from werewolves and pack dynamics. Everything put on the line with love.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and look forward to the next in the series.
Excerpt:
“He needed this place to be his...but as he watched Bryn sitting on his bed, it felt right to have her there with him. It had always belonged to both of them, even when she wasn’t there. Something eased inside his chest, something that had been hurting for a long time.”
Excerpt From: Dark Wolf Rising by Stephanie Rowe
"Bryn McKenzie would be dead by Thursday." This is the opening line of this novella. Talk about an intense start! This is the first in a new series.
Intense feelings, longings and connection. A thrill ride of danger from werewolves and pack dynamics. Everything put on the line with love.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and look forward to the next in the series.
Excerpt:
“He needed this place to be his...but as he watched Bryn sitting on his bed, it felt right to have her there with him. It had always belonged to both of them, even when she wasn’t there. Something eased inside his chest, something that had been hurting for a long time.”
Excerpt From: Dark Wolf Rising by Stephanie Rowe
December 24, 2019
Bryn witnessed a murder and is now in protective custody. The murderer happens to be Jace, the local werewolf pack's alpha. Cash, Bryn's former best friend when she was 14 happens to be part of the pack. When he was 15 he left and Bryn had no idea if he was still alive.
It's been 13 years since either have seen the other. His pack targets Bryn for extermination. Cash steps in to save her. They are not on the run from the pack. Let's kiss and make out!
It didn't take much time at all before they are cozy and buddy-buddy again. I would have understood it if it had been a few months or even a few years, but 13?! There was an explaination for what happened to Jace and a Big Bad. The ending was a little disappointing since the BB didn't get what was going to him.
It's been 13 years since either have seen the other. His pack targets Bryn for extermination. Cash steps in to save her. They are not on the run from the pack. Let's kiss and make out!
It didn't take much time at all before they are cozy and buddy-buddy again. I would have understood it if it had been a few months or even a few years, but 13?! There was an explaination for what happened to Jace and a Big Bad. The ending was a little disappointing since the BB didn't get what was going to him.
September 15, 2018
It wasn't terrible, but it wasn't great either. A quick read. I don't really have much to say about it. I think I've read books by this author before but can't be sure...guess that should say something.
Rating: R+ (profanity, sexual content, graphic gore stuff)
Language: profanity, sexual content
Recommend: No
Rating: R+ (profanity, sexual content, graphic gore stuff)
Language: profanity, sexual content
Recommend: No
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December 5, 2018I wish I was clever enough to know what is missing in this story. I was really looking forward to a shifter story but didn't have that zing. 40% was a struggle to read.
December 10, 2018
Your opinion of Dark Wolf Rising will hinge on your tolerance of tropes. 160 ish pages to cover, what, two/three days crammed full of them but empty, sadly, of any personality.
September 1, 2025
This was a really good book however I did think that it was a bit short
December 8, 2015
This author is off the charts awesome when it comes to paranormal romance stories and I was so excited to hear that she was starting a new series about shape shifters. What a great introduction to Cash and Bryn, Cash the bad ass, super sexy werewolf and Bryn his beautiful and caring childhood friend that he could never forget. This is the type of story that drew me to reading Stephanie Rowe's books in the first place and she did what she does best by drawing you in with great characters, an awesome story line, giving you just enough drama to keep you on your toes and wrapping it up in a big old bow that leaves you wanting more. Loved loved loved it!
December 12, 2015
Love this new series
September 4, 2018
Storyline for me is not bad. But I couldn't get the feel of being in love with the characters. I get that it's supposed to be a short novel, meant to be fast pace but it doesn't allow me room to get to know them deeper. Although there is much glimpse of past memories of them together that supposedly to show how close the Female and Male lead characters were growing up.. But I couldn't get in feelings with it..
Plus point:
- It is fast paced. Unique start. Very humanly possible situation where witness of heavy crime is greatly in danger.
[Started with the current situation that female lead is a witness of first degree murder (in human term) currently in protected custody of the force while waiting trial that will happen after X'mas holiday..] And like a lot of crime story, important witnesses is always never safe despite the high security protection in place.
- Nice sentiment. And conflict of interest.
The Male lead, a shifter is supposedly to kill the Female lead in order to so call stop the trial as it involves their Alpha (also the accused murderer). If it goes by naturally bonded pack loyalty the job could be done without a doubt just so that their pack Alpha is safe. However the male lead is not only unable to get it done, he also goes out of the way in betraying pack's orders when he brought the female away to another safe location. The female was is best friend, his only childhood friend, and also close enough relationship to be call family when he has 'no one else' growing up.. On the other hand he also believes his Alpha is innocent, as their pack was the most strict and discipline when it comes to not involving themselves with humans and not endangering human lifes unless its life threatening themselves .. They might be Wolf but they are not monsters the is much humanity in them as any other good people in the world..
Minus point:-
-Not deep enough, no heartfelt, No connection between me and the story.
Like most people would understand, when I read I get involved and even in some short story I could get the feel of the character.. In sad situation I might even cry while reading the book, and during dramatic events in a story even my heart pound so heart it might explode.. But for this case I don't know why I don't feel anything.. I try to picture myself as the female, life in danger, long lost friend/crush, but nothing..
- Ending too short and disappointing.
It's nice that the Alpha trial is over and he is relieved of all charges but that's was it not much details of what plan is comes up next, and no suspense.. I feel this book is like an incomplete standalone.. Because if it was meant to be a series It surely let ups more suspense.. You know, like u can't wait to buy the next book or watch the next episode of ur drama.. And the fact that the villain is still loose and might come back anytime to attack again, does not give much of a cliffhanger to get you going, and I am the type that will always have finish a series (unless still unpublished) before I could change to a different author or series.. But for this book, it is interesting for a short story.. But not interesting enough that I might start reading the next one that immediately, you know?
Plus point:
- It is fast paced. Unique start. Very humanly possible situation where witness of heavy crime is greatly in danger.
[Started with the current situation that female lead is a witness of first degree murder (in human term) currently in protected custody of the force while waiting trial that will happen after X'mas holiday..] And like a lot of crime story, important witnesses is always never safe despite the high security protection in place.
- Nice sentiment. And conflict of interest.
The Male lead, a shifter is supposedly to kill the Female lead in order to so call stop the trial as it involves their Alpha (also the accused murderer). If it goes by naturally bonded pack loyalty the job could be done without a doubt just so that their pack Alpha is safe. However the male lead is not only unable to get it done, he also goes out of the way in betraying pack's orders when he brought the female away to another safe location. The female was is best friend, his only childhood friend, and also close enough relationship to be call family when he has 'no one else' growing up.. On the other hand he also believes his Alpha is innocent, as their pack was the most strict and discipline when it comes to not involving themselves with humans and not endangering human lifes unless its life threatening themselves .. They might be Wolf but they are not monsters the is much humanity in them as any other good people in the world..
Minus point:-
-Not deep enough, no heartfelt, No connection between me and the story.
Like most people would understand, when I read I get involved and even in some short story I could get the feel of the character.. In sad situation I might even cry while reading the book, and during dramatic events in a story even my heart pound so heart it might explode.. But for this case I don't know why I don't feel anything.. I try to picture myself as the female, life in danger, long lost friend/crush, but nothing..
- Ending too short and disappointing.
It's nice that the Alpha trial is over and he is relieved of all charges but that's was it not much details of what plan is comes up next, and no suspense.. I feel this book is like an incomplete standalone.. Because if it was meant to be a series It surely let ups more suspense.. You know, like u can't wait to buy the next book or watch the next episode of ur drama.. And the fact that the villain is still loose and might come back anytime to attack again, does not give much of a cliffhanger to get you going, and I am the type that will always have finish a series (unless still unpublished) before I could change to a different author or series.. But for this book, it is interesting for a short story.. But not interesting enough that I might start reading the next one that immediately, you know?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2018
Bryn McKenzie is in protective custody after witnessing the murder of a woman by a werewolf who happens to be the alpha of a local pack. When the werewolf pack decides to take out the witness on Christmas Eve, Cash Burns volunteers to do the deed, since he has realized the witness is Bryn, his childhood best friend and the sweetheart he still loves. Since he became a werewolf, he’s stayed away from her to protect her, but now she needs his help. There is a lot of sexual tension in this couple from the beginning, and it’s believable because of the history between the two, but there certainly is a lot of it, considering they’re running from a dangerous adversary who is determined to kill them both. Cash takes her to a safe place that doesn’t stay safe, and then all hell breaks loose. There is a conclusion for the current situation and this couple, but there are still some loose ends that need to be tied up, so there’s definitely more story to come - this time featuring the alpha Jace Donovan.
April 15, 2018
Brynn and Cash
I usually don't re-read books but I read this one a second time in order to leave a review. I love action books, this book is stocked full of action and suspense as well as wolf shifters.
Brynn witnessed a werewolf murdering a woman. She is in witness protection until the trial. When the pack comes to kill her two days before she is to testify, she learns that her best friend from childhood is the one that was sent.
Cash grew up in an abusive foster care home. Brynn and her mom helped him whenever they could. Until one day when he was fifteen, he disappeared on them. Now she knows that he is alive. But wonders why he is hanging out with a pack of wolves.
I am always excited when I see that Stephanie Rowe has a new book. So give this author a try and you won't be disappointed.
I usually don't re-read books but I read this one a second time in order to leave a review. I love action books, this book is stocked full of action and suspense as well as wolf shifters.
Brynn witnessed a werewolf murdering a woman. She is in witness protection until the trial. When the pack comes to kill her two days before she is to testify, she learns that her best friend from childhood is the one that was sent.
Cash grew up in an abusive foster care home. Brynn and her mom helped him whenever they could. Until one day when he was fifteen, he disappeared on them. Now she knows that he is alive. But wonders why he is hanging out with a pack of wolves.
I am always excited when I see that Stephanie Rowe has a new book. So give this author a try and you won't be disappointed.
July 16, 2018
Finishes at 76%???
Well I am so glad I didn't pay for this book as it finished at 76%. This is the reason for only 3 stars. The story is actually really good however it could have been filled out alot more. There could have had more drama, more action and a lot more world building. Instead it was too the point for a very quick read. I usually only give books like this 2 stars but I actually really enjoyed the read. Bryn the female lead and Cash the male lead where likeable characters. However, I didn't enjoy the continued overly repeated phrases for example he's my best friend and she's mine, I love him/her always have, he left me, etc... It got a bit too much. Its a shame really because if the author had spent more effort in developing the characters, storyline and world building this would have been a really great read. Sexual content...
Well I am so glad I didn't pay for this book as it finished at 76%. This is the reason for only 3 stars. The story is actually really good however it could have been filled out alot more. There could have had more drama, more action and a lot more world building. Instead it was too the point for a very quick read. I usually only give books like this 2 stars but I actually really enjoyed the read. Bryn the female lead and Cash the male lead where likeable characters. However, I didn't enjoy the continued overly repeated phrases for example he's my best friend and she's mine, I love him/her always have, he left me, etc... It got a bit too much. Its a shame really because if the author had spent more effort in developing the characters, storyline and world building this would have been a really great read. Sexual content...
July 31, 2018
A GREAT Paranormal story! Definitely recommend!!
I loved the storyline. Especially about the friendship and loyalty between Cash and Bryn when they were young and there for one another. A true friendship that ends up being a forever love and commitment. They BOTH need each other for love and support because of how much their lives changed as they became adults and had to live with tragedy and adversity that brought them back together. This book had it all. Suspense, intensity, love, romance, loyalty, friendship and one of my favorites, the paranormal of wolf shifters. Some of them are good and still have their humanity and others that are just evil predators looking for blood to harm anyone that gets in their way. This is first book that I've read by Stephanie Rowe but definitely not the last.
I loved the storyline. Especially about the friendship and loyalty between Cash and Bryn when they were young and there for one another. A true friendship that ends up being a forever love and commitment. They BOTH need each other for love and support because of how much their lives changed as they became adults and had to live with tragedy and adversity that brought them back together. This book had it all. Suspense, intensity, love, romance, loyalty, friendship and one of my favorites, the paranormal of wolf shifters. Some of them are good and still have their humanity and others that are just evil predators looking for blood to harm anyone that gets in their way. This is first book that I've read by Stephanie Rowe but definitely not the last.
August 24, 2018
A True Alpha. 4 Star's.
A good quick read for the start of a new Shifter series from Ms Rowe, that starts with a bang and in the end leaves you wanting more.
If you enjoy Wolf Shifter's, Alpha Men, A Strong Female, Action Pumped fight for your life with a splash of heartbreaking anguish and returned love, then you will no doubt enjoy this.
Looking forward to reading Bk2, "Dark Wolf.
I received this download for free with no mention of leaving a review, but thought I'd leave one anyway.
Unsure if it's still free, so check it out for yourself, worth the time and who knows, you might just find yourself a great New author you never knew about.
A solid 4 star's, for a good quick read. 🌠 🌠 🌠 🌠
P.S Stephanie Rowe is the author of the "Soulfire" & "The Order of the Blade" series, that has made me a fan of her work.
A good quick read for the start of a new Shifter series from Ms Rowe, that starts with a bang and in the end leaves you wanting more.
If you enjoy Wolf Shifter's, Alpha Men, A Strong Female, Action Pumped fight for your life with a splash of heartbreaking anguish and returned love, then you will no doubt enjoy this.
Looking forward to reading Bk2, "Dark Wolf.
I received this download for free with no mention of leaving a review, but thought I'd leave one anyway.
Unsure if it's still free, so check it out for yourself, worth the time and who knows, you might just find yourself a great New author you never knew about.
A solid 4 star's, for a good quick read. 🌠 🌠 🌠 🌠
P.S Stephanie Rowe is the author of the "Soulfire" & "The Order of the Blade" series, that has made me a fan of her work.
March 26, 2018
Bryn is in protective custody after seeing a werewolf kill a woman. She is set to testify after Christmas. She is hidden away when some wolves find her. One just happens to be her best friend from years ago Cash. Cash is in the same pack as the Alpha on trial. But other wolves want her killed but Cash and his buddy Drake take off with her. Cash takes her to his cabin no one knows about and explains everything to her. A spell was put on the Alpha to make him kill that girl, they just have to figure out who’s behind it.
A lot of fighting and bloody to be such a short story. Couple of sex scenes. I really enjoyed the story. Some people didn’t but I thought it kept you hooked.
* Voluntarily read and reviewed for BookFunnel *
A lot of fighting and bloody to be such a short story. Couple of sex scenes. I really enjoyed the story. Some people didn’t but I thought it kept you hooked.
* Voluntarily read and reviewed for BookFunnel *
April 24, 2019
Since this is the first book of Stephanie Rowe's I've read, I came into it with no preconceived ideas of what to expect. This is a paranormal romance with a mystery. Lots of action, angst and dialogue. Cash grew up in foster care and Brynn, along with her family, tried to help him as much as they could. Then at fifteen he just disappeared with a word or trace. Now, Brynn has witnessed a wolf killing a woman so she's been placed in protective custody until the trial. A representative of the pack is sent to kill her before she can testify. --- Play the music, duh, duhh, duhhh --- Yep, it's Cash. The story isn't as gripping or deep as I normally like, but it was entertaining and kept my attention. It made me curious about the next book and that's the author's job, right?
April 24, 2019
Since this is the first book of Stephanie Rowe's I've read, I came into it with no preconceived ideas of what to expect. This is a paranormal romance with a mystery. Lots of action, angst and dialogue. Cash grew up in foster care and Brynn, along with her family, tried to help him as much as they could. Then at fifteen he just disappeared with a word or trace. Now, Brynn has witnessed a wolf killing a woman so she's been placed in protective custody until the trial. A representative of the pack is sent to kill her before she can testify. --- Play the music, duh, duhh, duhhh --- Yep, it's Cash. The story isn't as gripping or deep as I normally like, but it was entertaining and kept my attention. It made me curious about the next book and that's the author's job, right?
September 4, 2021
Cash grew up in an abusive foster home not ever knowing his biological parents, his foster dad was very abusive and that made Cash avoid people. Cash was a loner in school and stepped up to protect Brynn when she was being attacked by a male student who was making uncomfortable advances on her. Brynn became Cash's only friend.
Cash discovered he was a werewolf in his teens when one night his foster dad started beating on his kid foster brother. Cash stepped in to defend him and it got ugly. Cash thought he was insane and ran away.
Ten years later Cash comes back to town to save the only friend he ever had, Brynn.
This was a pretty good story, one that I enjoyed and would read on in the series.
Cash discovered he was a werewolf in his teens when one night his foster dad started beating on his kid foster brother. Cash stepped in to defend him and it got ugly. Cash thought he was insane and ran away.
Ten years later Cash comes back to town to save the only friend he ever had, Brynn.
This was a pretty good story, one that I enjoyed and would read on in the series.
July 13, 2018
Redundant
I've read this author before and enjoyed her books, but this one missed the mark. It started off with a bang, then became largely a repetitive, redundant, boring, repetitive narrative. I skimmed for dialogue and too often found only one sentence per page. A question would be asked and pages later when the answer finally came, I'd forgotten the question. At about fifty percent, it picked up again, but ended at 76% on my Kindle. And although Cash and Bryn ended well, there is obviously much more to come with an unresolved thread in the overarching storyline. I believe I'll pass on book two.
I've read this author before and enjoyed her books, but this one missed the mark. It started off with a bang, then became largely a repetitive, redundant, boring, repetitive narrative. I skimmed for dialogue and too often found only one sentence per page. A question would be asked and pages later when the answer finally came, I'd forgotten the question. At about fifty percent, it picked up again, but ended at 76% on my Kindle. And although Cash and Bryn ended well, there is obviously much more to come with an unresolved thread in the overarching storyline. I believe I'll pass on book two.
July 29, 2018
Just finished this book and lived it. I'm poor at the moment so I probably got it on Bookbub, but I can tell you it's worth paying for.
A woman who witnessed a brutal murder by werewolf is in terror of being killed before she can testify at the trial, even with her police protection. When the attack does come, she is saved by the boy who was her best friend but disappeared 13 years ago.
Cash hasn't felt alive since he left Bryn and now he has to save her from his pack and save his alpha, who he's sure has been wrongly accused.
Ok, it's a typical shifter romance but the characters are well written and the emotions feel real. I can't wait to read more about these characters.
A woman who witnessed a brutal murder by werewolf is in terror of being killed before she can testify at the trial, even with her police protection. When the attack does come, she is saved by the boy who was her best friend but disappeared 13 years ago.
Cash hasn't felt alive since he left Bryn and now he has to save her from his pack and save his alpha, who he's sure has been wrongly accused.
Ok, it's a typical shifter romance but the characters are well written and the emotions feel real. I can't wait to read more about these characters.
August 29, 2018
Well this was a new twist on shifters, but there was still the murdering aspect of some while others are protective. Bryn is being protected as a witness to a crime when the murdering kind come knocking, but to her surprise her saviour is somebody she hasn’t seen since they were kids. Cash knew he would do anything to save Bryn the moment her life was in danger but it’ll take more than him if they’re all going to get out alive!!!
I enjoyed this quick read, nice story and plot, I liked the characters. Lots of angst, but some very cute moments. Bryn and Cash have some sexy moments but nothing crude, overall a nice read.
I enjoyed this quick read, nice story and plot, I liked the characters. Lots of angst, but some very cute moments. Bryn and Cash have some sexy moments but nothing crude, overall a nice read.
July 15, 2022
I fell in love with This author’s Order of the Blade series, but have not yet found another of her book that lives up to to that series and this one is no different. For me, it was a bit short to really form a connection with the characters. I enjoyed Cash and Bryn enough, but I would have liked for them to be a bit more fleshed out. I also didn’t feel like there was much resolution at the end of this one. It definitely requires for you to continue reading the series, which I have decided I was not invested enough in the story to do. Overall, this was well written, but it just didn’t draw me in enough to continue reading.
October 2, 2017
Once Upon A Midnight Anthology
Bryn witnessed a murder and is attacked while in witness protection. Thankfully for her, her childhood best friend Cash is part of the wolfpack that comes looking for her and he saves her.
I stopped reading when they make it to the safe house. I just couldn't get into how they still know each other so well. Things happen and people change, for Bryn to be so pushy about how she knows him so well just irked me. And since I already wasn't into the story I decided to call it quits.
Bryn witnessed a murder and is attacked while in witness protection. Thankfully for her, her childhood best friend Cash is part of the wolfpack that comes looking for her and he saves her.
I stopped reading when they make it to the safe house. I just couldn't get into how they still know each other so well. Things happen and people change, for Bryn to be so pushy about how she knows him so well just irked me. And since I already wasn't into the story I decided to call it quits.
April 29, 2018
I liked the premise of the story, but I’m not sure I’m impressed with the execution. Just when I was getting really invested, it was over. I sat there thinking.. how could it be the end at 80% (number not exact)??? That felt so wrong to me.
I could definitely have used a lot more meat to the story. Maybe I’m just complaining to be complaining, but when I like a book, I hate to see it end. I was liking the story and then it was over.
Will I read the next in the series? I’m not sure. Possibly. Jace seemed like a great person.
I could definitely have used a lot more meat to the story. Maybe I’m just complaining to be complaining, but when I like a book, I hate to see it end. I was liking the story and then it was over.
Will I read the next in the series? I’m not sure. Possibly. Jace seemed like a great person.
October 13, 2020
I love The Order of the Blade series and this is a fantastic start to a new paranormal series. The chemistry between Bryn and Cash was hot from the start, especially after finding out about their past history. The story had a great plot with a good mix of action, tension and passion, although I wanted it to have been longer :-) I'm looking forward to how it progresses in the next book. I definitely want to find out more about Jace and Drake. Great read if you like strong, dark, sexy alpha wolf shifters!
April 7, 2018
The h is being protected as she is witness for a murder, and if she testifies it will 'out' shifters. This is action mixed with ethical dilemma, and while I liked some of it, I didn't like how it skimmed over a number of issues - outing shifters to the world, the murdered woman, and the backward/forward between the H and h. The pacing of the story was not very good, not sure I liked it enough to buy next book.
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